Families visiting Savannah should make Forsyth Park a priority for its accessible playgrounds, shaded walkways, and opportunities for outdoor games. Skidaway Island State Park offers an immersive natural experience with hiking trails, wildlife spotting and even geocaching, making it a hit with nature-loving kids. For history enthusiasts, the Savannah History Museum provides a fascinating look into the city’s past with hands-on exhibits and scavenger hunts. These attractions offer a balance of fun, education and relaxation, making them some of the top things to do in Savannah with kids.
Savannah, Georgia, is a destination that blends historical charm, natural beauty and endless opportunities for family fun. From its cobblestone streets to its lush parks and hands-on attractions, Savannah is perfect for creating lasting memories with children of all ages. With activities ranging from outdoor adventures and historical landmarks to creative arts and spooky ghost tours, there’s no shortage of things to do in Savannah with kids.
Whether your family loves exploring nature, learning about history, or diving into artistic and interactive experiences, Savannah’s unique mix of offerings ensures everyone will find something to enjoy. Here’s a detailed guide to some of the most family-friendly attractions and experiences Savannah has to offer.
Savannah, Georgia
Outdoor Adventures
Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park, a 30-acre gem in the heart of Savannah, is a must-visit destination for families. Created in the 1840s and named after Governor John Forsyth in 1851, this expansive park is not just a green space but also a historical landmark.
Forsyth Park offers a unique opportunity for families to enjoy the outdoors while immersing themselves in Savannah’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Its wide open spaces, shaded paths and plenty of recreational activities make it one of the top things to do in Savannah with kids.
Things To Do at Forsyth Park:
- The park’s playgrounds are a favorite among families, featuring equipment designed to cater to children of all ages and abilities. Parents can relax on nearby benches while toddlers enjoy climbing structures, slides, and swings. Older kids will appreciate the more challenging play features that encourage physical activity and creativity, ensuring fun for everyone.
- The iconic Forsyth Fountain, installed in 1858, is one of Savannah’s most recognizable landmarks. Families often gather here for photos, capturing memories against the backdrop of its intricate design. Children are especially drawn to the cascading water, making it a focal point of any visit.
- For those who love outdoor meals, Forsyth Park’s picnic-friendly areas are unbeatable. Families can spread a blanket on the grassy lawns or use one of the park’s tables to enjoy sandwiches, snacks or even takeout from nearby restaurants. Surrounded by towering oak trees and the gentle sway of Spanish moss, it’s a serene spot to relax and recharge.
- The park’s local events, festivals and concerts bring the community together and add extra excitement to any visit. From seasonal craft fairs to live music performances, there’s always something happening that will captivate both kids and adults.
- For active families, Forsyth Park’s sports fields and open spaces provide endless possibilities. Bring a soccer ball, Frisbee or kite for some quality playtime. The wide open areas are perfect for games of tag or catch, while older kids can join pickup games of soccer or football with local kids.
- Nature-loving families will enjoy the Fragrant Garden, a sensory-friendly space designed to engage visitors through touch and smell. Featuring a variety of aromatic plants and flowers, it’s an interactive experience that encourages kids to explore the beauty of nature in a hands-on way.
Forsyth Park’s history and beauty make it more than just a recreational area. Whether you’re visiting for an afternoon or planning a day-long adventure, this beloved Savannah landmark offers something special for every member of the family.
Skidaway Island State Park
Located just outside Savannah, Skidaway Island State Park is a haven for families who love the great outdoors. This coastal park offers an abundance of natural beauty, making it one of the best things to do in Savannah with kids who enjoy exploring wildlife and nature.
Things To Do at Skidaway Island State Park:
- Families can embark on hiking trails that wind through maritime forests and salt marshes, offering opportunities to see local wildlife such as deer, fiddler crabs and a variety of bird species. The trails are well-maintained, making them accessible for all ages and perfect for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous hike.
- For those staying overnight, the campgrounds provide both tent and RV sites, along with camper cabins that feature air conditioning, modern kitchens and screened porches. These accommodations ensure comfort while allowing families to immerse themselves in the park’s serene environment.
- Bird-watching enthusiasts will find the park a paradise, with opportunities to spot painted buntings, herons, and egrets. The park’s interpretive center even provides binoculars and reference books to enhance the experience. Climbing the observation tower is another highlight, offering panoramic views of the surrounding marshlands and a chance to catch a glimpse of more elusive wildlife.
- For families who enjoy treasure hunts, geocaching provides a fun and interactive way to explore the park. Kids will love searching for hidden caches scattered throughout the area, turning their visit into an exciting adventure.
Savannah, Georgia
Historical and Educational Activities
American Prohibition Museum
The American Prohibition Museum stands out as the only museum in the country dedicated to the history of Prohibition. This immersive and educational attraction is one of the more unique things to do in Savannah with kids, offering a hands-on way to learn about this fascinating chapter in American history.
The museum’s interactive exhibits transport visitors back to the Jazz Age, complete with recreated speakeasies and authentic artifacts. Families can explore displays featuring stories of key Prohibition figures and even experience the dramatic impact of the 18th Amendment. Kids will enjoy engaging with the museum’s guided tours, which make the history of Prohibition come alive through compelling narratives and hands-on activities.
Old Fort Jackson
Old Fort Jackson, a National Historic Landmark, is a must-see for history buffs and one of the most engaging things to do in Savannah with kids. Built in 1808 during Thomas Jefferson’s presidency, the fort served as a critical defensive structure for Savannah during the War of 1812 and later during the Civil War. Perched along the Savannah River, Old Fort Jackson offers families an immersive glimpse into the city’s military history and its role in protecting the port from enemy forces.
The fort’s well-preserved architecture and breathtaking views of the river create an ideal setting for families to explore history together. It’s more than just a historical site — it’s a dynamic learning environment where children can connect with the past in an engaging and memorable way.
Things To Do at Old Fort Jackson:
- One of the highlights for families is the live reenactments of Civil War-era military drills. Costumed interpreters perform these drills with precision, giving kids and parents an up-close look at the life of a soldier during this pivotal time in history. Children are often fascinated by the realism of these demonstrations, which include authentic uniforms and detailed explanations of military strategies.
- A standout feature of any visit is the cannon firings, an exhilarating display that showcases the might of 19th-century weaponry. Kids will love the dramatic boom of the cannon and the anticipation leading up to each firing. The interpreters also explain the mechanics and historical significance of the cannons, offering a thrilling yet educational experience. This activity often becomes a favorite memory for families looking for interactive things to do in Savannah with kids.
- For hands-on learners, the fort offers interactive history lessons where kids can handle replica artifacts, such as muskets, tools, and everyday items used by soldiers. This tactile approach allows children to step into the shoes of those who lived and worked at the fort, deepening their understanding of its historical significance. Parents will find this activity to be both educational and enjoyable, as children engage in history in a way that feels personal and exciting.
- The exhibits at Old Fort Jackson are another highlight, providing detailed insights into the fort’s architecture, strategic importance and role in key military conflicts. Families can explore artifacts, maps, and models that illustrate the fort’s evolution and its impact on Savannah’s history. These displays are thoughtfully designed to be accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages.
The fort’s location along the Savannah River adds another layer of appeal. Families can enjoy views of passing ships and learn about the river’s role in the city’s history while walking along the fort’s perimeter. Picnic tables nearby provide a perfect spot to enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in the scenic surroundings. Whether it’s the breathtaking views or the hands-on activities, Old Fort Jackson offers some of the most unique things to do in Savannah with kids.
Savannah, Georgia
Arts and Entertainment
Savannah Theater
As the oldest continuously operating theater in the United States, the Savannah Theater offers a unique opportunity for families to experience live performances in a historic setting. Dating back to 1818, the theater has been a cultural cornerstone of Savannah, providing entertainment for over two centuries.
Families can enjoy musical performances that feature captivating storylines and toe-tapping tunes suitable for all ages. Whether it’s a classic production or a modern adaptation, these shows are crafted to entertain children and adults alike. Seasonal performances, such as holiday-themed productions, add a festive touch and make the experience even more special.
For children interested in the performing arts, the theater’s interactive workshops provide an exciting opportunity to learn about stagecraft, acting, and behind-the-scenes production. These workshops are tailored to young audiences, encouraging creativity and confidence while offering a deeper appreciation for the art of theater.
The theater’s rich history and intimate atmosphere make every performance feel special, creating a shared experience that families will remember long after the curtain falls.
Jepson Center for the Arts
The Jepson Center combines contemporary art with hands-on activities, making it one of the top things to do in Savannah with kids who love creativity. Opened in 2006, this modern museum is part of the Telfair Museums and is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of artists and thinkers.
One of the Jepson Center’s standout features is the ArtZeum, a dedicated space designed specifically for children. This interactive gallery encourages kids to explore their creativity through hands-on exhibits, including building stations, art puzzles, and digital displays. It’s a space where learning and play intersect, offering endless opportunities for imaginative expression.
Families can also participate in art workshops, where children and parents work together to create their own masterpieces. These sessions are led by skilled educators who guide participants through various techniques, fostering a love for art in a supportive environment.
The Jepson Center’s rotating exhibitions ensure that there’s always something new to discover.
Savannah, Georgia
Things To Do With Older Kids
Ghost Hunters of Savannah Paranormal Experience
For families with older children, Savannah offers thrilling and unique activities that cater to their sense of adventure and curiosity. One standout experience is the Ghost Hunters of Savannah Paranormal Experience, a guided ghost tour that combines the city’s rich history with an eerie exploration of its haunted past. This tour takes families through 416 W Liberty Street in Savannah, a location known for its supernatural activity.
What truly sets this tour apart is the use of ghost-hunting tools, which older kids will find especially fascinating. Participants are provided with equipment such as EMF detectors, which measure electromagnetic fields often associated with ghostly presences, and spirit boxes, devices designed to pick up potential communications from the beyond. Additionally, thermal imaging cameras allow participants to detect heat signatures, offering a deeper layer of intrigue as they search for evidence of paranormal activity. Older kids will love the immersive nature of the tour, as it feels like stepping into a real-life ghost-hunting adventure.
FAQs
Yes, Savannah is packed with enriching activities that combine learning and fun. The American Prohibition Museum brings history to life with interactive exhibits and guided storytelling. Old Fort Jackson allows children to step into the past with live reenactments, cannon firings, and tactile history lessons that include replica artifacts. The Savannah History Museum engages kids with scavenger hunts and hands-on programs that explore everything from the Revolutionary War to the city’s railway history. These experiences provide an excellent way for kids to learn while staying engaged and entertained.
Absolutely! Savannah is an exceptional destination for families due to its wide array of kid-friendly parks, historical landmarks, and engaging cultural attractions. Savannah offers a little something for everyone. With so many things to do in Savannah with kids, it’s a city that welcomes families with open arms and provides endless opportunities for fun and bonding.
Forsyth Park is undoubtedly the best spot for a family picnic in Savannah. Its expansive open spaces, shaded areas under moss-draped oaks and scenic atmosphere create the perfect setting for a relaxing meal. Families can lay out a blanket near the iconic Forsyth Fountain or settle at one of the park’s picnic tables. Surrounded by nature, this is an idyllic spot to enjoy quality time together while soaking in the charm of Savannah.
