Epic ways to travel solo in Savannah

Savannah has been buzzing on our radar as one of the most fascinating places in the U.S. We want to take a deeper look at what makes this city so elusively enchanting, and what better way to really get to know a place than to visit alone? Embarking solo on a journey to a new place can push you outside of your comfort zone, whether that means conversation with strangers or quiet solo bike rides through serene settings.

Let your guard down and your curiosity be piqued as you travel to Savannah. The city will welcome you with grace, beauty, and even a bit of mystery. It won’t take long before you find your stride and feel right at home–they don’t call it the Hostess City for nothing. Below are some tips for traveling solo that, with the city as your companion, will ensure you’re in the best possible company.

See the city by bicycle

Cycling is one of the most pleasurable solitary activities, especially in Savannah. The opportunities to lose yourself in lush tree-lined streets, surrounded by historical architecture and friendly faces, make this the best place to travel solo. Go at your own pace, and enjoy the sites from the freedom of a two-wheeled steed. CAT Bike is a bike sharing program, and it’s easy to pick up and drop off your ride at stations throughout the city.

Cycle through Forsyth Park and make a stop at the fountain for some people watching. Then, head about 4 miles east from the park to Bonaventure Cemetery, famously beautiful with more than 100 acres of green spaces to explore. A dappled avenue of Spanish moss-hung live oaks will bring you to Wormsloe Historic Site, 6 miles south. Here you can interact with costumed participants and visit the museum, theater, and nature trail. Make a ride down Jones Street a priority as well—it’s often referred to as the prettiest street in America.

Take up with a tour

We know, this is a solo trip, and guided tours can seem a little crowded for the free-spirited wanderer, but sometimes it pays to be a joiner. Especially when food is involved. How to travel solo and experience the delights of Savannah dining? Save yourself the trouble of booking a table for one every night. The Savannah Taste Experience is the perfect way to sample the city’s culinary diversity. If you prefer hands-on activities, take a class at Chef Joe Randall’s Cooking School, and learn from a master how to cook Southern staples with surprising twists.

Once you’re full on smothered shrimp and grits and Savannah crab cakes, work it off on a historical walk. Footprints of Savannah walking tours guide you through the complete antebellum history of the city and its citizens. This journey is enriching both emotionally and intellectually, and will certainly provide you more to chew on.

Spend some cash

One of life’s greatest pleasures is giving the perfect gift, and you’re bound to find just the right thing in Savannah’s markets and shops. The Paris Market, for instance, has many lovely treasures from local makers and artisans across the world. For a little less polish and a lot more vinyl, pop into Graveface Records & Curiosities.

Booklovers must go to E. Shaver, bookseller, the oldest bookstore in town. They specialize in Savannah-centric books that will summon memories of your visit for years to come. Don’t forget to say hello to store “meownagers,” Eliot and Bartleby, the resident cats-on-duty. Fans of the written word should also stop at the Flannery O’Connor Childhood Home, where you can tour the house and garden, and shop for books and gifts, too.

For a little slice of everything, City Market is the place to go. As the “Art and Soul” of Savannah, it houses retail shops, restaurants, and an art center filled with working studios.

Enjoy a few sips

Everyone offering Savannah travel tips will tell you to do it, so why buck a tradition as sweet as a trip to Leopold’s Ice Cream? They’ve been serving soda fountain classics like ice cream floats and hand-crafted milkshakes and sodas for nearly a century. You probably shouldn’t leave without getting a cone, too. May we suggest the butter pecan?

The freedom of unfettered travel can be intoxicating, so why not up the experience with spirits? Distillery Ale House is an inviting place to tuck in for a friendly pint. For live music, The Jinx is your joint, and Treylor Park Savannah offers seasonal cocktails in stylishly relaxed indoor and outdoor spaces. For a boisterous night you will never forget, Club One–home to the iconic Lady Chablis–delivers with cabaret drag shows, dance nights, and good vibes.

When it comes to choosing where to travel solo, you can’t do better than Savannah. From taking in the gorgeous sights, to experiencing rich flavors and sounds of this unique Southern city, taking some alone time in Savannah will feed your soul.