Nov 072011
This morning I drove over the Talmedge Bridge and headed into Savannah. First stop was the visitors center to find where the interesting spots were located. One thing Savannah is noted for are the 24 squares within the historic district. The first square was laid out in 1769 and more were added over the next century. The best I could describe them is small park like areas that are about a city block square. Each square has it's own personality, some with ornate fountains and others a quiet green retreat.
You can see all of my Savannah Photos in my Photo Gallery.
Since it was sunny and in the 70's I figured I would try and walk the squares. This would let me get a close up view and get a flavor for the city. Most of the squares are located on 4 streets so I just started walking at one end. It would be an ambitious walk that I couldn't finish but what I saw was worth it.
What may have struck me more then the squares where the streets of Savannah. The apartments, condos and shops are hard to describe. Most of the buildings in the historic district are well over 100 years old and it was not uncommon to see placards with dates in the 1700's. As you walk down the streets you see stairs going up one level to an entrance door, then below it on ground level is another. It appears that many of these living quarters are small, but I would have given anything to get inside some of them to see the historic architecture. There are a few homes that you can take tours of. I didn't do any today but may tomorrow when I go back.
Back to the squares. I am glad I decided to walk the squares. There are a number of tour trollies you can take but it would be hard to get a real feeling of each one. Take your time when you visit them. Each are a few blocks from the other so sit down and take in the design and features of each one. While I didn't make it to all 24 of them, I really enjoyed visiting ones I was able to get to.
While you are at it take a stroll through the Colonial Park Cemetery. A lot of early history can be found with most of the tombstones from the 18th and 19th century.
The last part of my day was on the River Front. You can catch a boat ride on the river or check out the hundreds of restaurants, bars and shops. This is a little bit more touristy but it is still worth the time to check it out. There is also a large art and design community in Savannah. Lots of schools for the arts and many studios and exhibits.
It was a great day. Lots and lots to see and it sure tired me out. Tomorrow I'll go back and take one of the trolley tours. I'll be able to learn more about the city and be able to sit back and leave the driving to someone else.
Be sure to check out all of the photos.