River Street in Savannah is by far the most well known street in the city! It’s adjacent to the Savannah River, where it’s fun to sit and watch massive cargo ships sail into one of the busiest ports along the East Coast. The area is also famous for hosting one of the largest St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the country. If you're headed to the waterfront and wondering what to do on River Street in Savannah GA, don't worry — I've got you covered with the most comprehensive guide on the web.
*Please note: I've written additional posts about other areas within the city of Savannah that are just as fun to explore. To keep this (reasonably) short, this guide is for the River Street area only and therefore only references restaurants and shops found along that particular street.
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Headed to River Street in Savannah, GA? Here's the ultimate list of what to see and do! #savannah Click To Tweet
Before You Go
Pack comfortable shoes, because you’ll do a LOT of walking along the river. The cobblestone streets, narrow alleyways, trolley tracks, and steep stairways are not high heel friendly! You'll also want to pack bandaids and some sunscreen.
Where To Park Once You Arrive
My first parking suggestion is…don't. Savannah is a city made for walking, so it's best to take a leisurely stroll to River Street from your hotel or home rental. If that's not an option, pedicabs offer another great way to leisurely check out the sights. Uber and Lyft also blanket the Historic District and can be at your door in minutes.
If you must drive, download the ParkSavannah mobile app from iTunes or Google Play. It allows you to pay your meter fee from the comfort of your car and extend your time limit from remote locations. (No more interrupting lunch to run outside and feed the meter!)
You can also visit the City of Savannah's Mobility & Parking Services website to purchase a 1 or 2 day parking pass for $15 or $24 respectively. The pass allows parking in any city garage or metered parking space with a limit of 1 hour or more.
My favorite place to park when driving to River Street is in Emmet Park off E. Bay Street. It's lined with pretty oak trees that provide a good amount of shade, it's inexpensive, and it's really close to the river.
Please note: You'll have to walk down some steep stairs to get to River Street when parking here, so this is not the best option if you have knee problems. But hey…the park still has horse hitches, so you're in luck if you arrive on horseback!
If you're driving a camper, U-Haul, or towing a boat, park in the gated lot at the Visitor's Center on MLK Jr. Blvd. (Because…good luck finding a spot in the Landmark Historic District.)
TIP: Metered parking spaces are free every day after 8:00 p.m. and all day on Sunday, as well as on all government authorized holidays.
What To Do On River Street In Savannah GA
If you're new around here…hi, I'm Erin! I live in the Starland District in Savannah, and I love sharing my favorite things to do in the city with new visitors. River Street is always bustling with activity — day or night — and the cobblestone streets are lined with the beautiful architecture of centuries-old buildings. Here are a few suggestions to get your started…
1. Head To River Street Sweets First!
My first and favorite stop along the riverfront is in River Street Sweets. The heavenly smell of fudge is irresistible, and it's what lured me in the first time I ever wandered down River Street as a little kid. My friends and family always make a beeline for this old-fashioned candy shop whenever they're in town!
There are two doorways into the store, but if you walk into the one on the right-hand side you'll be greeted with free samples as soon as you enter. Their pralines are the best I’ve ever had! (No worries: calories don't count when you're on vacation!)
You can't miss the bright red awning or the smell of fudge wafting out onto River Street.
This old-fashioned candy store is the real deal! They have a taffy-making machine that's more than 100 years old, and their candy is displayed in beautiful antique wooden display cases.
The store employees are very friendly, and some have been with River Street Sweets for more than 20 years! You can watch them make candies on huge marble slabs, ask questions about the process, and try samples. Kids LOVE visiting River Street Sweets!
These are just a few of the treats you can buy:
- Ice Cream
- Old-Fashioned Candies (anyone remember candy cigarettes?)
- Southern “Bear Claws” (pecans topped with caramel and chocolate)
- Flavored Popcorn
- Fresh Fudge
- Candy-Coated Pecans
- Salt Water Taffy
- Pralines (a MUST!)
Related: River Street Sweets: Savannah's Can't-Miss Candy Shop
2. Explore Factor's Walk
It may sound odd to some, but one of my favorite things to do on River Street is to explore the many mysterious nooks and crannies that showcase the hidden layers of the city. Savannah seems to be a city where nothing was ever torn down, and nowhere is that more apparent than along the river.
Buildings appear stacked atop older buildings, narrow alleyways lead to dead ends, and shadowy doorways beckon curious visitors to see what lies beyond…even though common sense (and warning signs) typically caution otherwise!
I can’t help it; I’m drawn to the unknown, and Savannah offers that in spades.
The Factor's Walk area is one of my favorite places to explore! It's located along the back side of all the buildings facing the river on River Street, and it looks particularly beautiful at sunset.
The historic Cotton Exchange building all aglow during the golden hour. This is where cotton brokers used to set the prices for cotton worldwide.
Unique architectural details abound along Factor's Walk, like the arched windows along the storefronts and beautiful corbels at the roofline. The middle photo was taken from the lower level, looking up. In the third shot, you can see the open sidewalk under the Cotton Exchange Building. Be careful! It's a 30 – 40 foot drop to the bottom!
TIP: Obviously you should use common sense when exploring the back alleys of the river. I typically take my brother with me and make sure I have a fully charged cell phone. Although the river area is crowded with tourists and a few locals, it also has its fair share of inebriated individuals—particularly at night.
So many of the stairs to River Street are steep, old, and marked with yellow caution signs. Still…I hope the city never revamps them, because they add to the charm and character of Savannah.
Every time sun flares show up on my photos, like those on the stairs to the left, I always wonder if I captured a ghost. The haunted vibes along Factor's Walk are STRONG! The Cluskey Vaults (right) are one of the most interesting lesser-known landmarks in Savannah. I write more about them in my book, the Savannah First-Timer's Guide.
Savannah is in the heart of the Deep South, which means it has a very complex racial history. If you're into self-guided tours, I highly recommend downloading the Detour App and selecting the “Dark Path to Freedom” walk to learn more about the slave trade along River Street and in nearby City Market.
3. Check Out the Foodie Scene
I tend to work up a hearty appetite when I’m strolling along the river, but there’s no fear of going hungry on River Street! It’s packed with great restaurants that are perfect for taking a leisurely break to unwind and recharge.
Many have balconies on the second level, offering a pretty view of the river and the street below (as well as a breeze, if you’re lucky).
- Huey's on the River tops my list for a filling brunch. They serve New Orleans style food, and their beignets are addicting! Huey's faces the river and is approximately at the mid-point along River Street.
Daisy and her friend, Rebecca, anxiously await the arrival of brunch at Huey's. Rebecca is a New Orleans girl, so she knows good beignets!
Cafe M (left) serves up delicious quiche and mimosas for brunch. Huey's (center) has the best beignets east of New Orleans. You can always count on Treylor Park (right) to find a unique twist with the incredible dishes on their menu!
- Cafe M is my top spot for a light lunch. The Parisian style cafe is beautifully decorated, and you can't go wrong with any of their sandwich offerings! It's on the street level of the Factor's Walk side.
- Tubby's Seafood is on the second level (above Huey's) and it catches a great breeze off the river. It's a good spot for casual dining or if you have kids in tow. A lot of the food is fried, but there are salad options for the health conscious. The seared ahi tuna salad appetizer is filling enough to serve as a full meal and is my usual choice.
- Treylor Park is a great choice if fancy isn't your thing. It's actually one of my favorite restaurants in all of Savannah! Their menu is filled with Southern comfort food with a unique twist. For example, instead of chicken and waffles (a Southern staple), they serve chicken and pancake tacos covered in strawberries!
TIP: For traditional “Southern” home-cooking, try anything fried (seafood, chicken, okra, tomatoes, etc.), or sample shrimp & grits, she-crab soup, pecan pie, or mashed potatoes with gravy. Top everything off with a glass of sweet tea to quench your thirst! FYI: If you aren't accustomed to real Southern sweet tea, it's loaded with sugar.
4. Have Drinks Overlooking The River
- Wet Willie's is the perfect place to cool off after wandering around in the hot sun all day. (Think slushies for adults and that's pretty much all you need to know!) Their frozen drinks are amazing, and the bartenders come up with some really fun combos if you're willing to let them select the ingredients.
- Top Deck is a rooftop bar on the top level of the Cotton Sail Hotel. It's a fantastic spot to catch a sunset and some of the best views of the Talmadge Bridge.
- Rocks on the Roof is on the top level of the Bohemian Hotel and is another good spot for drinks and a great view of the river. Food is tapas style, but you can visit Rocks on the River in the same building for a heartier meal.
If you prefer the speakeasy vibe, there's one called Mata Hari's at 306 W. Lower Factor's Walk. If you don't mind venturing away from River Street, there are plenty of great cocktail bars further into town. Congress Street is a good place to start.
5. Shop For Inexpensive Souvenirs
If you’re into shopping, the river area is a great place to find t-shirt shops, hats, bookstores, handmade jewelry, local art, photographs…and even a seashell shop! Save the higher-end boutique shopping for Broughton Street, which is located within walking distance a few blocks away.
Related: Savannah Shopping: The Essential Guide to Broughton Street
Wondering what to do on River Street in Savannah GA? I wouldn't really recommend shopping. Most of the stores on River Street are touristy little shops, like this seashell shop.
While River Street is primarily a touristy area as far as shopping goes, there are a few boutiques along the Factor's Walk side that have cute outfits, accessories, and home decor.
A selection of goodies from RMC Boutique on the upper level of Factors Walk.
If you're a book lover, there's a cute little vintage bookstore called Books on Bay that's worth checking out. There are also some unique antique stores on River Street, so pop into a couple of those to see if anything strikes your fancy.
6. See River Street From The Water
If you prefer to view Savannah from the water, opt for an approximate 45-minute ride on either the Georgia Queen or the Savannah River Queen steamboat.
- Perks: The views of Savannah from the water are really pretty — especially at night when all the lights are reflecting off the water. You'll learn about the history of river commerce from a narrated tour given by the boat's captain. This is especially fun for kids who want to learn more about the tugboats, barges, and container vessels that constantly cruise down the Savannah River.
- Drawbacks: Skip the buffet options, since the cost for those is rather high and you'll find better meals elsewhere in town. Exception: The Holiday Gospel Dinner Cruise during December is worth the money!
A moonlight cruise on the Georgia Queen steamboat is a great way to see Savannah's riverfront from a different perspective.
TIP: On a budget? Take the Savannah Belles Ferry for free to get some amazing shots of Savannah from the water. It departs every 20 to 30 minutes from 3 boarding docks on River Street. View the locations and times here.
Tickets: Check reviews about the Georgia Queen and purchase tickets here on Trip Advisor.
7. Visit the Waving Girl Statue
Local legend Florence Martus was fascinated with passing ships. It’s estimated she welcomed more than 50,000 ships into Savannah by waving a handkerchief or a lantern (at night). Kid's are always captivated by her story.
The Waving Girl Statue was erected to honor Florence Martus, who waved at every single ship that passed by and reportedly never missed a single one in 44 years! [Center photo source.]
Sailors often returned her greeting with a quick blast of the ship’s horn. The majority of the ships entering Savannah's port still honk to this day!
8. Check Out The Cotton Exchange Building
Finally, a day on River Street wouldn't be complete without a visit to the historic Cotton Exchange building. The façade of the building is stunning! I stand in awe each time I stare up at the details above the grand entryway.
The building looks like something straight from a movie set (as is the case with many buildings in Savannah).
The griffon standing guard in the fountain just outside the entry is a favorite spot for kids. This statue is actually a painstakingly accurate reconstruction of the original c.1889 one that was destroyed when a car crashed into it in 2008.
Planning Your Trip
Here are a few helpful tips to make planning your trip as effortless as possible…
Where to Stay
I'll include a variety of options that are all within a block or two of River Street. They're each good, but vary based on your travel style.
If I had to pick my favorite, I'd go with Kimpton Brice. It's gorgeous and on the quieter eastern end of Bay Street near some really pretty neighborhoods where I enjoy walking.
- Modern: Kimpton Brice Savannah [Average Rate: $150]
- Retro: Thunderbird Inn [Average Rate: $100]
- Haunted: East Bay Inn [Average Rate: $125]
- On River Street: The Bohemian Hotel [Average Rate: $250]
If you're looking for the hotel across the river that has the pretty views facing River Street, that's The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa [Average rate: $225 – $250]. The views from there are incredible — especially at night. The free Savannah Belles Ferry goes back and forth all day long, so it's still easy to get to everything.
Search Hotels: booking.com
Airport Information
When traveling to Savannah, fly into the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV). The budget conscious can “Catch at CAT” (Chatham Area Transit bus line) for less than $5 from the airport to Oglethorpe Street, which is 2 blocks from the Savannah Visitor's Center.
Search Flights: skyscanner.com
Downloadable Map
I created this handy map to help you find your way around River Street. I hope it's helpful! (Download the Alpaca Travel app to be able to save and view it even when you're offline.)
Get the Guide!
If you need help planning the perfect trip, I spill all my secrets in my ebook, the Savannah First-Timer's Guide. I tell you which tourist traps to avoid, include alternative options you could try instead, give the scoop on which areas of town are dangerous, tell you where to take the best photos, and let you know how to save money on everything from parking to tours to food! Learn more here. (But seriously, it's less than $10, so what more do you need to know? I promise I'll save you that much in parking alone!)
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I don't only write about River Street! You can find my other Savannah posts listed here. I also have a Pinterest board for Savannah that I update frequently.
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Planning a trip over Thanksgiving break. Any recommendations for entertainment or adventures. Can’t wait to try the southern cooking!
Thanksgiving is a great time to visit, and you’ll love the foodie scene in Savannah. My favorites for Southern cooking are Back in the Day Bakery (their biscuits!!), Narobia’s Grit’s & Gravy, and Clary’s Cafe (famous for their hash browns…I just had breakfast there today and it was delish!). If you’re going to do a tour and want to learn about the history of Savannah, my top two recommendations are the First African Baptist Church tour and Pin Point Museum. If you want to do something fun and adventurous, try a nighttime ghost tour of one of the houses or cemeteries. 🙂
I’ve been hearing so much about Savannah lately, I think it’s high time I make a visit! This is a great guide for the River Street section and I’ll definitely check out your other Savannah posts. As much as I’m usually a budget traveler, the Holiday Gospel Dinner Cruise sounds like it would be great fun!
I lean towards budget travel myself, so I’ve tried to include lots of tips for like-minded travelers. The gospel cruise is pretty incredible! They have a 4th of July one that I’m planning to try in just a week or two so I can catch the lights from the water. 🙂 Hoping to get some good pics!
Savannah seems so lovely and Gothic! I’ve always wanted to check it out after reading “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”–now I have a guide!
That book is still killin’ it for the tourism industry here, even after 15 years or more! 🙂 And yes, some parts are Gothic, some areas are very Victorian, while others are very Colonial in origin. Savannah runs the gamut in architectural styles. About the only thing you won’t find is modern (aside from one or two oddballs thrown into the mix).
Thinking of visiting in September or October but want to include a few days at Tybee Island. Is it still warm enough to swim in October?
It depends on what you’re accustomed to, but my daughter still swims in late September to early October. The water temps are probably around the mid-70s (I’m guessing)? The air temperatures are DEFINITELY still warm enough for swimming in September and October. That time of year is actually pretty ideal for visiting Tybee, in my opinion!
I have heard about St. Patty’s Day in Savannah! I haven’t been to Savannah yet, but it’s definitely on my list!
St. Patty’s Day is crazy here! I think we had half a million people visit this year? It used to be the 3rd largest St. Patrick’s Day party in the U.S., but I think I heard we moved into first place this year? I don’t doubt it!
I believe it! It something to add to the bucket list.
We have been to Savannah’s River Street many times but I don’t know where or how to get to shops on Factors Row. Please help.
River Street is the cobblestone street that runs parallel to the water and has all of the shops and restaurants (River Street Sweets, Huey’s, etc.). The next parallel street up towards the city is called Bay Street. It’s a very busy street with lots of hotels and more restaurants on it (like Cotton Sail Hotel, Bohemian, Indigo, etc.). Factor’s Walk is actually BETWEEN those 2 parallel streets. You can drive to it, but it’s easier to access by walking. Park as close to Cafe M as possible — enter the parking area from Bay St. — and then take the stairs close to Cafe M down to the cobblestone street below. That cobblestone street is the lower level of Factor’s Walk (also known as Factor’s Row).
Heck, if you have trouble finding it next time you’re in town, just contact me erin[at]sandsunandmessybuns[dot]com and I’ll meet you there to show you around!
Omg your post is giving me serious Savannah feels! It’s been probably about 4 years since I’ve been there and I miss it! I will never forget Huey’s as long as I live. We went there the first time I ever went to Savannah and then every time after and they have the best french toast! I’m planning my trip next year and I just want to roam around the old buildings, your photos look amazing! It’s such a cool old city.
Yay, so happy you liked it! It’s an AMAZING city! I wander the streets all the time (out exercising, not like a weirdo, lol) and think how lucky I am to live in such a pretty and unique place. And yes, everything at Huey’s is incredible! I might end up there this weekend for some french toast now that you’ve mentioned it 🙂
Thanks soooo much for sharing!! My Fiance and I are going to Savannah next month and I’m trying to find something fun for us to do! The food looks so good.
The food is so good! There’s no shortage of good restaurants in Savannah. For higher-end dining, try The Grey (very close to the river and within walking distance). For breakfast, Clary’s will load your plate with the best southern eats! Have a great trip!
I have been on river street as well. My only recommendation is to stay off of it if you’re riding a motorcycle. Extremely rough ride.
Ha! I concur. 🙂