What is Savannah, GA known for | What is Savannah famous for
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 9 May, 2023
- |
Are you looking to learn more about the history, delicious eats and exciting attractions in Savannah, Georgia? Well, the oldest city in the Peach State is famous for its electric atmosphere, sultry Southern charm, and historic beauty.
Savannah is home to a rich culture and vibrant nightlife, making it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area. Whether it’s savoring classic Southern cuisine, shopping in antiques shops, or exploring the cobblestone streets, there’s something for everyone in Savannah.
From Civil War landmarks and breathtaking beaches to unique dining experiences, Savannah is the perfect destination all year-round. Read on to find out what this exciting city is most known for!
Table of Contents
Interesting & Unknown Facts About Savannah, GA
- Savannah is the oldest city in the state of Georgia, founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe.
- The city is built around a system of 22 squares, which were originally intended to serve as public gathering places and markets. Today, many of these squares are still well-preserved and serve as popular tourist destinations.
- Savannah is home to the oldest continuously operating theater in the United States, the Savannah Theatre, which was established in 1818.
- The city was a major center for cotton trade during the antebellum era and was also a hub for the slave trade.
- Savannah is famous for its ghost stories and haunted locations. One of the most well-known haunted spots is the Bonaventure Cemetery, which has been featured in several movies and books.
- The city is known for its beautiful architecture, which includes a mix of styles such as Georgian, Gothic, and Greek Revival.
- Savannah was the site of the first planned city in the United States, with Oglethorpe’s original plan featuring a grid of streets and squares.
- The city is home to the birthplace of Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low, which is now a museum dedicated to her life and legacy.
- Savannah is famous for its seafood, particularly its shrimp and oysters.
- The city was a major filming location for the movie Forrest Gump, with several scenes shot in the historic district.
- Savannah is home to the Savannah College of Art and Design, which is one of the most prestigious art schools in the country.
- The city is located on the Savannah River, which forms part of the border between Georgia and South Carolina.
- Savannah was the site of a major battle during the American Revolution, with the British occupying the city for several years before being driven out by American forces.
- The city was spared from destruction during the Civil War, thanks to General William T. Sherman’s famous “March to the Sea,” which bypassed Savannah.
- Savannah is home to several historic forts and military installations, including Fort Jackson and Fort Pulaski.
Why is Savannah called Savannah?
Savannah is called Savannah because it was named after the Savannah River, which flows through the city. The river was named by the Native American tribes who inhabited the area before the arrival of European colonizers. The word “Savannah” comes from the Taino language and means “grassy plain.”
The name was chosen by General James Oglethorpe, the founder of Savannah, who wanted to honor the river and the native people who had lived there for thousands of years.
Oglethorpe and the settlers arrived in the area in 1733 and established the city on the bluff above the river, naming it after the waterway. Today, the Savannah River continues to be an important feature of the city, serving as a source of drinking water, a transportation artery, and a popular recreational area.
Why is Savannah called the first city?
Savannah is called the “first city” because it was the first planned city in the thirteen colonies. General James Oglethorpe founded the city in 1733, as a new colony for debtors and poor people in England.
Oglethorpe had a vision for a city that would be a model of order and prosperity, and he carefully planned Savannah’s layout, with a grid of streets and squares. The squares were designed to serve as public gathering places and markets, and the streets were wide enough to accommodate the city’s growing population and economy.
This was in contrast to the haphazard growth of many other colonial cities, and it set a precedent for future urban planning. Additionally, Savannah was the capital of the Georgia colony and served as an important center of trade, commerce, and culture. All of these factors contributed to Savannah’s reputation as the “first city” of the colonies, a title that it still proudly holds today.
Why was Savannah unique?
- It was the first planned city in the thirteen colonies, with a grid of streets and squares that served as public gathering places and markets.
- It was the site of a major battle during the American Revolution, with the city being occupied by the British before being liberated by American forces.
- Savannah was spared from destruction during the Civil War thanks to General William T. Sherman’s famous “March to the Sea,” which bypassed the city.
- The city played an important role in the civil rights movement, with the desegregation of Savannah’s schools being a key milestone in the struggle for racial equality.
- Savannah is known for its well-preserved historic district, which features a mix of architectural styles from different eras.
- The city is built around a system of 22 public squares, which provide green space and serve as popular gathering places for residents and visitors.
- Savannah has a rich cultural heritage, with a vibrant arts scene, a thriving food and drink culture, and a strong sense of community.
All of these factors combine to make Savannah a unique and special place, with a rich history and a vibrant present.
Top 10 Best Things Savannah, GA is known For
1. Historic Savannah: With a rich history and numerous gorgeous squares, Savannah is one of the most beautiful cities in the US
2. Coastal Charm: Located along the coast of Georgia, Savannah offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean’s marshlands and tidal creeks, as well as many activities for lovers of the outdoors.
3. Forsyth Park: Dating back to the 1840s, this iconic and picturesque park is the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll or gathering with friends.
4. Victorian Architecture: Step back in time as you take in the beauty of the many incredible architectural gems featured throughout the city.
5. Bonaventure Cemetery: Widely recognized as one of the most beautiful cemeteries in America, Bonaventure is a must-see for any Savannah visitor.
6. World-renowned Restaurants: Whether you’re craving savory Southern cooking or modern and inventive cuisine, you’ll be able to find it in Savannah.
7. Museums and Galleries: Uncover the stories of Savannah’s past and explore its vibrant creative community at the city’s many art galleries and museums.
8. Nightlife: From intimate jazz clubs to wild dance halls, Savannah boasts an active and exciting nightlife scene.
9. Annual Festivals: From St. Patrick’s Day to the Savannah Music Festival, the city’s numerous annual events bring thousands to enjoy the bustling festivities.
10. Shopping: From vintage stores to upscale boutiques, Savannah offers an array of shopping opportunities that appeal to the avid shopper.
Read more about Georgia City
- 10 Best Things Sandy Springs, GA is Famous For
- Interesting & Unknown Facts About Roswell, GA
- What is Rome, GA known for
Historical facts about savannah, Georgia
- Savannah was founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe and served as the capital of Georgia until 1786.
- Savannah played a key role in the American Revolution, with the city being the site of a major battle in 1779. The British held the city for several years before being driven out by American forces.
- During the Civil War, Savannah was spared from destruction thanks to General William T. Sherman’s famous “March to the Sea,” which bypassed the city.
- Savannah was a major center for the slave trade during the antebellum era, with the city’s port serving as a hub for the importation of slaves into the South.
- The city was home to several prominent figures in American history, including Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low and musician Johnny Mercer.
- Savannah was a major center for cotton trade in the 19th century, with many of the city’s grand homes and mansions built by wealthy cotton merchants.
- The city played an important role in the civil rights movement, with the desegregation of Savannah’s schools being a key milestone in the struggle for racial equality.
- Savannah is known for its well-preserved historic district, which features a mix of architectural styles from different eras.
- The city is built around a system of 22 public squares, which were originally intended to serve as public gathering places and markets.
- Savannah was the site of the first planned city in the United States, with Oglethorpe’s original plan featuring a grid of streets and squares.
Fun things to do in savannah, Ga
There are many fun things to do in Savannah, GA, here are some options:
- Take a walking tour of the city’s historic district, which features beautiful architecture, picturesque squares, and a wealth of fascinating history.
- Visit the Savannah Riverfront, which features restaurants, shops, and stunning views of the Savannah River.
- Explore Forsyth Park, a beautiful public park that features a large fountain, walking paths, and plenty of space to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
- Take a ghost tour of Savannah, which is said to be one of the most haunted cities in the United States.
- Visit the Telfair Museums, which feature a range of art and artifacts from Savannah’s rich history.
- Enjoy a meal at one of Savannah’s many great restaurants, which offer everything from classic Southern cuisine to international flavors.
- Take a riverboat cruise on the Savannah River, which offers beautiful views of the city and its surroundings.
- Visit the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Museum of Art, which features a collection of contemporary art and design.
- Explore the Bonaventure Cemetery, which is known for its beautiful sculptures, historic gravesites, and haunting beauty.
- Take a horse-drawn carriage tour of the city, which provides a leisurely and romantic way to see Savannah’s historic sites and architecture.
History & Information of Savannah, GA
Savannah is one of the oldest cities in the United States. It was founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe, the founder of the colony of Georgia. At the time of its founding, Savannah was an important trading port in the New World with links to the rest of the 13 American colonial states. Savannah was also the capital city of Georgia until the capital was moved to Atlanta in 1868.
- Interesting Facts & Unique Things About Redan, GA
- Interesting & Unknown Facts About Pooler, GA
- Best Things Peachtree Corners, GA is known For
Since its founding, Savannah has had a rich history. It played a major role in the American Civil War, and was the site of several battles. It also was a major historical port for the trans-Atlantic slave trade, a period of history that is deeply connected to Savannah’s African-American heritage. The city’s unique blend of Southern charm and historic architecture has given it a unique character that has attracted many tourists over the years.
Today, Savannah is a vibrant and growing city. It is home to numerous historic sites, including the Savannah Historic District and the Wormsloe Historic Site.
It is also home to a number of art galleries, theaters and other cultural attractions, as well as a healthy restaurant and nightlife scene. Savannah is also the site of many annual events and festivals, such as the Savannah Music Festival and the Savannah Stopover Music Festival. The city is a major transportation hub and a popular destination for both tourists and businesses.
