“Did you see the Savannah Bananas?”
I thought I heard the question wrong so I paused before replying. Or perhaps Eric was just messing with me…we are in the Navy after all.
That Sailor humor still sneaks out every now and then…maybe this was meant to be a bit more suggestive than I suspected.
“I’m sorry?”
…continue in the podcast.
Travel Resources
Savannah, Georgia, whispers tales of pirates, historical figures, and architectural marvels. Beyond the iconic bench from Forrest Gump, this city offers a treasure trove of intriguing stories waiting to be discovered. So lace up your walking shoes and get ready to be charmed!
(if you just want a Google Maps overview that shows all the locations below…📍check this out)
Where to Stay?
We don’t have a specific hotel to call out…but if you can, find something near Savannah’s Waterfront. From there, you can walk to a lot of the good stuff.
About each spot
📍Step Back in Time at Chippewa Square
Start your journey at Chippewa Square, immortalized in Forrest Gump. Pay homage to General James Oglethorpe, the city's founder, immortalized in a grand statue. Take a moment to admire the Spanish moss draping the trees, a unique feature that lends Savannah a romantic, timeless aura.
note: Chippewa Square is also where the “Forrest Gump bench” scenes were filmed.
📍Where History Meets Faith: First Baptist Church
A stone's throw away from Chippewa Square lies the First Baptist Church, a testament to Savannah's enduring faith. Completed in 1833, it's one of the city's oldest standing houses of worship and remarkably remained open throughout the Civil War.
📍Experience the Magic of Theatre: Savannah Theatre
Prepare to be transported as you enter the Savannah Theatre, boasting the title of America's oldest continuously operating theatre (since 1818!). Imagine the echoes of legendary actors like Oscar Wilde and W.C. Fields gracing this very stage.
📍 A Glimpse into Architectural Grandeur (that was in a movie)
Take a detour to 17 West McDonough Street to marvel at the Eatonton-Cleland House, a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture, built in 1847.
📍 Notorious Nights at The DeSoto Hotel
History buffs, take note! The DeSoto Hotel housed a notorious guest during the Prohibition era - Al Capone. Imagine the clandestine dealings that might have unfolded within these very walls.
Worth every penny and a great place to go if you want to escape the heat. Adults can even buy drink tickets in advance to have a drink in the “secret” speakeasy at the end of the tour. Kid-friendly and an almost Disney-level experience.
📍 Literary Haunts: Mercer House
Bookworms, rejoice! Immerse yourself in the enigmatic world of "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" by visiting the Mercer House (429 Bull Street), featured in the book and its movie adaptation.
📍 A Culinary Gem: The Olde Pink House
For a taste of Southern hospitality, head to the iconic Pink House (23 Abercorn Street). This charming restaurant promises a delightful culinary experience amidst a vibrant atmosphere.
📍 Girl Power at Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace
Empower yourself at the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts in America (10 East Oglethorpe Avenue). Learn about her inspiring journey and the legacy she left behind.
📍 Unearthing Pirate Lore: The Pirate House
Ahoy, mateys! History and fantasy collide at The Pirate House (20 East Broad Street). This tavern claims the distinction of inspiring the infamous Captain Flint's death scene in Robert Louis Stevenson's "Treasure Island."
📍 Honoring a Hero: Johnson Square
Pay your respects at the monument dedicated to General Nathanael Greene, a Revolutionary War hero, in Johnson Square. His remains are interred beneath the monument, solidifying his place in Savannah's history.
Savannah's magic lies in its ability to weave the past with the present. So, come explore these captivating locations and discover the unique charm that Savannah has to offer!
🎙️Savannah History: Pirates, Movies, and Mobsters
In the Beginning, there was nothing. Then Chuck Norris roundhouse kicked nothing and told it to get a job.
Savannah was Bananas