If you were to ask four of your friends, “When is the best time to visit Savannah, GA?”, you could end up with four different answers. Depending on the type of weather you enjoy and your interests will determine when you think is the best time to visit Savannah, GA.
It’s charm and historic vibes have been compared to that of Charleston, SC. But Savannah has its own culture and uniqueness to offer visitors. When most people think of Savannah, they think of oak trees covered in Spanish moss, River Street, and Paula Deen. But this barely scratches the surface of all that Savannah has to offer.
Savannah has been nicknamed The Hostess City of the South for its overwhelming hospitality. Visitors will be met with Southern pleasantries like having a door held open, hearing “Yes ma’am” from a cashier, and strangers smiling at you as you pass on the street.
As with most tourist destinations, the hotel rates are highest in the summer months, lowest in the winter, rising during the spring, and decreasing in the fall. For the best rates guaranteed, check out InTown Suites’ Savannah property at 5450 Augusta Road. This location has quick access to nearby interstates and major roads and is only 5 miles from Historic Downtown Savannah.
To help you and your family decide when is the best time to visit Savannah, we have created an overview of events and highlights from each season. Once you have seen all the fun that each season has to offer, maybe you will see why any time of year is the best time to visit this charming city.
Winter
December, January & February
Winter in Savannah, GA is still considered mild by most. And with low rainfall and little ice or snow, Savannah winters won’t deter visitors from exploring or enjoying the sights.
Locals and tourists will confirm that Savannah has some of the most spectacular Christmas decorations! Downtown and the Historic Districts are covered in lights, wreaths, bows, and Christmas cheer. At the corner of Bull Street and Broughton, Savannah features their city’s Christmas tree which stands around 3 stories tall. More annual holiday events in December include the following:
- Christmas on the River & the Lighted Christmas Parade
- City Market’s Holiday Open House
- Christmas Market at Plant Riverside District
Other holiday highlights of Savannah include the full-sized Christmas tree made of poinsettias at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and shopping at The Paris Market on W. Broughton Street and the River Street Market Place.
To count down the start of a New Year, Savannahians and visitors love to join together on River Street for Up the Cup, a ball-drop-like event that features a six-foot-tall replica of the notorious Wet Wellies to-go cup being hoisted in the air and falling at midnight. Attendees also enjoy the celebration fireworks at midnight on the Riverfront.
January and February are no different from other months in Savannah – there are numerous local events and festivals happening for locals and visitors to enjoy. Some of these events and festivals include:
- Black Heritage Festival (February)
- Savannah Book Festival (February)
*Please check with events’ websites for the latest information.
Spring
March, April & May
As winter melts away and spring begins to bloom so do the flowers and foliage in Savannah, GA. One reason tourists will say Spring is the best time to visit Savannah is because of the transformation of the beautiful landscapes.
Azalea bushes pop with bright pink flowers, and dogwoods bloom with beautiful white buds. Forsyth Park and Bonaventure Cemetery are two of the most breathtaking landscapes to experience in the spring.
One of the longest-running spring traditions of Savannah is the St. Patrick’s Day Parade which began in 1824. The event has continued to grow and draw visitors from around the country year after year. Today, approximately 280 floats, bands, societies, soldiers, and public servants parade through the streets of Downtown Savannah. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, the 2021 event has been canceled.
Here is a list of the other annual events held in Savannah during the Spring. Please note that some of these events may have been canceled or postponed due to the pandemic. Be sure to check the events’ websites for the most current information.
- Savannah Stopover (March)
- Savannah Music Festival (March/April)
- SCAD Sidewalk Arts Festivals (April)
- Tybee Island Wine Festival (April)
- North of Gwinnett Street Tour of Hidden Gardens (April)
- SCAD Sand Arts Festival (May)
Summer
June, July & August
Summer months mean heat and humidity in Savannah, GA. The average high is 91℉, and the average low is 72℉. Rain is more prevalent during the summer as well but so are the outdoor fun and activities in Savannah, GA.
Despite the heat, there are lots of great activities that can be enjoyed in Savannah during the summer. You can take an Old Savannah Tour. These air-conditioned bus tours take guests throughout Historic Savannah exploring the history and culture of the city. There are several tour options including a ghost tour.
Another great summer activity in Savannah is a trip to Leopold’s Ice Cream. This ice cream shop has been serving Savannah for more than 100 years. And no matter what time of day – it’s always a good time to experience this delicious Savannah tradition.
The summer weather doesn’t slow down the festivals in Savannah, GA either. Here are some of the annual events and festivals hosted during the summer months in Savannah:
- River Street Seafood Fest (June)
- River Street Fourth of July Celebration (July)
- Tybee Island Independence Day Fireworks (July)
- Savannah’s Blues, Jazz & BBQ Festival (June/July)
- Savannah’s Gourmet Seafood & Spirits Festival (August)
*Please check with events’ websites for the latest information.
Fall
September, October & November
Savannah has been called one of the most haunted cities in America. And what better time to visit Savannah, GA than the season of fall festivals, ghost tours, and costume contests.
As the temperatures decrease, the foliage of Savannah will begin to change colors right before your eyes. This is a great time to visit Savannah On Wheels and schedule a bike tour. These guided tours take guests throughout Historic Downtown Savannah with short stops at each location. You can also rent a bike and take yourself around Savannah.
When you are done with your bike tour, why not check out the oldest restaurant in Savannah. Crystal Beer Parlor first opened its doors in 1933. Crystal holds tight to its roots and traditions still serving delicious American and Southern classics and craft beer, many of which are locally brewed. This is just one of the delicious restaurants that Savannah has to offer.
Here are some of the annual events and festivals held in Savannah during the Autumn months:
- Bacon Fest on River Street (September)
- Savannah Jazz Fest (September)
- Tybee Island Pirate Fest (October)
- Savannah Pride Festival (October)
- Oktoberfest on River Street (October)
- SCAD Savannah Film Festival (October)
- Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl (October)
- Great Ogeechee Seafood Festival (November)
- Savannah Food & Wine Festival (November)
- Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon (November)
- Savannah Harbor Boat Parade of Lights (November)
With so many festivals, so much history, and such beautiful landscapes, Savannah won’t disappoint. We hope this guide has helped you see that any month you choose will be the best time to visit Savannah, GA.
As you plan your next vacation to Savannah, remember that InTown Suites offers fully furnished suites with in-room kitchens. We have the best extended-stay accommodations in Savannah!
