Savannah, Georgia has always been a destination that’s danced on the edge of mystery and charm, and after spending several days exploring it firsthand, I can confidently say, it exceeded all expectations. This wasn’t just any trip. It was an in-destination training experience, hosted by Visit Savannah and The Group Travel Leader, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the city, meet the people behind the scenes, and explore the very places our clients will soon enjoy. And that is how we do our best work, by walking the cobblestone streets ourselves and creating relationships with the hotels, restaurants, and attractions we’ll be recommending.
Arrival Night: A Haunting Welcome at The Marshall House
Our first night landed us at The Marshall House, one of the oldest (and reportedly most haunted) hotels in Savannah. Built in 1851, the hotel served as a hospital for Union soldiers during the Civil War and again during two devastating yellow fever epidemics in the 19th century. That history lingers in more than just the architecture, many guests report paranormal activity like flickering lights, footsteps when no one is there, and faucets that turn on without explanation. The hotel proudly embraces its haunted past, and historic displays throughout the property highlight its rich and chilling legacy.
We didn’t check in until after midnight, and let’s just say… I was feeling the energy from the moment we arrived. A few unsettling things happened, like the shower turning on by itself in the middle of the night, the TV shutting off, and our door mysteriously locking on its own. Let’s just say I wasn’t mad when we checked out the next morning. That being said, I did really enjoy walking around the hotel during the daylight hours as it is really beautiful. If you are not brave enough to stay over-night, I highly suggest still making a stop in to look around.
Day One: A Warm Welcome at Cambria Downtown & Savannah’s Historic Stage
Our first official day brought a welcomed switch to the Cambria Downtown Savannah, where we stayed in a spacious corner king room that was so much larger than most of the other standard hotel rooms I’ve ever seen. It was the perfect home base for the rest of our stay.
That evening kicked off with a high-energy performance of Hairspray at the Savannah Theatre, a historic gem that has been entertaining guests since the early 1800s. After the show, we headed over to The Pirate’s House for our welcome dinner, which ended up being one of my favorite stops of the trip.
The Pirate’s House isn’t just a restaurant, it’s one of Savannah’s most iconic landmarks. Originally opened in 1753 as an inn for sailors visiting the Port of Savannah, it’s considered one of the oldest buildings in the city. The house became notorious for its seafaring clientele, many of whom were reportedly drugged or tricked into joining ships’ crews through underground tunnels that led directly to the river. Yes, that’s right…there’s still a tunnel entrance visible inside the restaurant, giving you a chilling glimpse into the pirate history that inspired tales like Treasure Island.
Dining here is like stepping into another time, with each room steeped in character, creaky wood floors, and stories just waiting to be told. The food was great, but it was the atmosphere that truly made it unforgettable. It’s a must-see for any history lover or anyone looking to have a meal with a side of mystery and adventure.
Our night wrapped up with a ghost tour by Savannah Ghost Tours, which was more of a historical walk with ghostly undertones, perfect for anyone who wants the lore without the scares (we’ll get to the spooky stuff in a little bit).
Day Two: Trolleys, Tequila, & a Gospel-Fueled Riverboat Cruise
We started our morning with Old Town Trolley Tours, a relaxing and scenic way to explore Savannah while soaking in local history. One of the most fascinating stops was the Andrew Low House, a beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion that reflects the elegance and complexity of Savannah’s past. This house holds a special connection to Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA, as it belonged to her husband, William Mackay Low. Juliette lived in the home during her marriage, and it remains an important part of her personal story. Touring the home offers a unique glimpse into her life before she began her mission to empower young girls.
For those wanting to dive even deeper into her legacy, you can also visit Juliette Gordon Low’s Birthplace, located just a short walk away. This beautifully restored home is where she was born and raised, and it’s also where her vision for the Girl Scouts began to take shape. The museum does a fantastic job of sharing her life, her challenges, and how she went on to change the world for millions of girls. It’s an unforgettable stop for scout troops, families, educators—or anyone who values leadership, resilience, and the power of purpose.
That evening, we boarded the Savannah Riverboat for their Gospel Dinner Cruise, and it was an absolute soul-filling experience. As the boat drifted peacefully down the Savannah River, we were treated to a delicious Southern-style buffet with everything from fried chicken to peach cobbler. But the real highlight was the live gospel performance, uplifting, powerful, and full of heart. The singers created a joyful, high-energy atmosphere that had everyone clapping, singing along, and even dancing. Between the river views, the music, and the warm company, it was one of those moments you just don’t forget.
A Paranormal Night to Remember
Later that night, Mike and I took part in a truly unique experience, a paranormal investigation inside the historic Savannah Theatre with Ghost Coast Paranormal. This wasn’t your average ghost tour. What sets this company apart is that they don’t just tell you stories, they give you the tools to explore the paranormal world yourself. Guests are invited to use professional-grade equipment, including REM pods, EMF detectors, spirit boxes, SLS cameras, and other gear you’d recognize straight from shows like Ghost Adventures. It’s an interactive, immersive investigation that makes you feel like you’re part of a real paranormal research team.
The Savannah Theatre itself is the perfect backdrop for such an experience. Opened in 1818, it’s one of the oldest operating theaters in the United States and has seen fire, death, and decades of history. One of the most tragic tales involves a young starlet who died in a devastating fire, and many believe her spirit never left. Guests and staff have reported everything from shadow figures to cold spots and unexplained voices. The energy inside is palpable.
Adding to the intrigue, Jack Osbourne and his team from the TV show Portals to Hell recently filmed an episode inside the Savannah Theatre, drawn by its long-standing reputation for paranormal activity. It’s clear that this location isn’t just legendary, it’s active.
The investigation with Ghost Coast Paranormal starts around 10:30 PM and runs deep into the night, usually until about 1:30 AM. The owners of the company are not only extremely kind and welcoming but also deeply educated in the field of paranormal research. They guide you through the process in a way that’s respectful, grounded, and absolutely fascinating, whether you’re a seasoned investigator or a curious first-timer.
If you’re even slightly into the paranormal, this experience is a must. It’s like stepping into your own ghost-hunting episode, and I promise you, it’s one of the most unforgettable things you can do in Savannah.
Day Three: Beach Town Bliss on Tybee Island
We took a short drive out to Tybee Island, and wow, this coastal escape stole my heart. Coming from the Jersey Shore, I’m used to summer crowds, but Tybee had such a peaceful, laid-back vibe. We started with a guided tour to get a sense of the island, then hopped on a dolphin cruise with Captain Derek’s Dolphin Adventure Tours where we saw what felt like 50 dolphins! It was magical.
Lunch at North Beach Bar & Grill gave us those chill island vibes before heading to the Tybee Island Marine Science Center for a hands-on tour about local marine life and conservation efforts. We wrapped up with a walk around the Tybee Island Lighthouse, one of the most photogenic stops of the day.
Back in Savannah, we visited Ashford Tea Company for a tea tasting experience that blew me away. The owner’s passion for tea was contagious, and the flavors were so unique I ended up splurging on several blends to bring home. I genuinely learned things about tea I never knew, and I drink a lot of tea.
Farewell Dinner + Final Day Fun
Our farewell dinner was held at 45 Bistro, located inside The Marshall House, and it was, without a doubt, the best meal of the trip. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere felt elevated yet welcoming, and every course of the meal was an absolute standout. But what made this evening even more impactful wasn’t just the food, it was the conversations.
Trips like this are so important for us as travel professionals because they give us the rare opportunity to sit down face-to-face with the very people who help bring our clients’ vacations to life. During dinner, we had the chance to speak in depth with members of the convention sales team and the group tour sales department at the Visit Savannah Tourism Board, as well as members of the Group Travel Leader magazine team. These types of connections are invaluable, not just for us, but for our clients. When we personally know the people in destination, we’re able to go the extra mile and deliver more personalized, seamless, and elevated experiences.
The night was the perfect ending to a week filled with inspiration, education, and connection.
On our final morning, we enjoyed a soap-making class at Salacia Salts, a charming local boutique that blends creativity, sustainability, and Southern soul. What made this visit even more special was the time the owner took to share her personal story with us. She told us how the inspiration for her shop came from a dream she had about a bottle she unearthed in her backyard. That single discovery sparked a journey of research and self-discovery that led her to learn more about the island’s earliest settlers who lived on Tybee Island and how they had once harnessed the natural healing benefits of the island’s salt.
That history now lives on through her products, handcrafted using local sea salt and inspired by the island’s unique heritage. Hearing her story while creating our own personalized soaps made the experience feel even more meaningful. It was hands-on, heartfelt, and a beautiful way to wrap up our time in Savannah.
Before heading home, we made one final stop at the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force which was an emotional and powerful tribute to the brave men and women who served in World War II. The exhibits were thoughtful and deeply moving, and we even had a lovely lunch at their on-site café before saying our goodbyes.
Final Thoughts: Why Savannah is for Everyone
Savannah is a destination that has something for everyone, from bachelorette groups and history buffs to foodies, ghost hunters, Girl Scout troops, and honeymooners. The blend of historic charm, coastal relaxation, culinary delights, and warm Southern hospitality makes it a must-visit.
We had such an incredible time that we’ve decided to organize a group trip for 2026! If you want to be one of the first to know when details drop, message us to join the waitlist. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this one.
