Franklin Square
Historic Savannah square featuring the Haitian Monument and vibrant seasonal festivals like the Chinese Lantern Festival.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Franklin Square
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Savannah square featuring the Haitian Monument and vibrant seasonal festivals like the Chinese Lantern Festival.
"A pretty square with a significant historical monument, great for learning and enjoying seasonal events."
🚶♀️ Explore with Respect
Appreciate the history, but be mindful of litter and potential solicitations.
📅 Check Event Schedules
Seasonal festivals like the Chinese Lantern Festival are a must-see!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Haitian Monument
Franklin Square
Honor courageous Haitian soldiers who fought in the American Revolution. A powerful tribute to their sacrifice.

Chinese Lantern Festival
Franklin Square
Experience a magical display of illuminated lanterns during this popular seasonal event.

First African Baptist Church
Near Franklin Square
Visit one of the oldest African Baptist churches in the US, a site of profound historical and spiritual significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Savannah's Historic Charm
Seasonal Spectacles
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore with Respect
Appreciate the history, but be mindful of litter and potential solicitations.
📅 Check Event Schedules
Seasonal festivals like the Chinese Lantern Festival are a must-see!
📸 Capture the History
The Haitian Monument and surrounding historic sites offer great photo opportunities.
📍 Convenient Location
Franklin Square is close to City Market and River Street, perfect for a stroll.
A walk through Franklin Square today
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore with Respect
Appreciate the history, but be mindful of litter and potential solicitations.
📅 Check Event Schedules
Seasonal festivals like the Chinese Lantern Festival are a must-see!
📸 Capture the History
The Haitian Monument and surrounding historic sites offer great photo opportunities.
📍 Convenient Location
Franklin Square is close to City Market and River Street, perfect for a stroll.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Franklin Square is appreciated for its historical significance, particularly the Haitian Monument, and its role as a venue for vibrant seasonal events like the Chinese Lantern Festival. While some visitors note concerns about litter and solicitations, many find it a great place to soak in the atmosphere and explore nearby attractions.
"This is a pretty square with a significant historical monument. Unfortunately there is a lots of litter and shady looking characters all around the place. We were approached twice for money while trying to enjoy the Haitian Monument of Revolutionary War assistance. Could be much nicer"
Louis and Elaine
"Another great place, so nice to learn about this historical place! The first black Baptist church in Savannah built in 1859. Very interesting. The men of African descent who fought for freedom in the Revolutionary War, they gave all."
Kelly Webb
"The park is awesome.
Has a huge statute.
Tour bus rides sold there.
Other small sales going on.
People were super nice.
Great place to chill and hang out."
Nicolas Waldron
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Franklin Square is centrally located in Savannah's Historic District, easily accessible by foot from River Street and City Market. Parking garages are available nearby if you're driving.
While there isn't a direct bus stop within the square itself, several bus routes service the surrounding Historic District, making it a convenient stop on a Savannah transit tour.
Yes, Franklin Square is a short and pleasant walk from River Street, offering scenic views of Savannah's historic architecture along the way.
Several public parking garages are located within a few blocks of Franklin Square, including the Bryan Street Garage and the Whitaker Street Garage.
Walking is highly recommended to fully appreciate the historic charm. Many tour buses also stop at or near Franklin Square.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Franklin Square itself is a public park and is free to enter. However, special events like the Chinese Lantern Festival may require tickets.
As a public park, Franklin Square is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific event hours will vary.
Yes, the Chinese Lantern Festival held at Franklin Square typically requires purchased tickets for entry. It's advisable to book in advance.
Yes, many Savannah history tours, including those focusing on African American history and the Revolutionary War, often include a stop at Franklin Square.
You might find tour operators selling tours directly at Franklin Square, especially those focusing on Savannah's historic sites.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Franklin Square features the significant Haitian Monument, a fountain (though sometimes removed for maintenance), and is a hub for various activities and tours.
Franklin Square can be enjoyable for families, especially during events. However, be mindful of the park's condition and potential for litter.
It's home to the Haitian Monument, commemorating Haitian soldiers in the American Revolution, and is near the First African Baptist Church, a historically important site.
Public restrooms may be available in or near Franklin Square, but it's advisable to check local facilities or use those at nearby establishments if needed.
Franklin Square hosts seasonal festivals, serves as a starting point for historical tours, and is a lively spot with people enjoying the atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Franklin Square is conveniently located near Savannah's City Market and River Street, offering a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and bars.
During special events or festivals, food vendors might be present. Otherwise, the surrounding areas offer numerous dining options.
You can find diverse culinary options, from traditional Southern fare to international cuisine, in the vicinity of Franklin Square.
While there are benches, it's best to check local regulations regarding picnicking. Many visitors opt to dine at nearby restaurants.
Absolutely! The area around Franklin Square is bustling with bars and pubs, popular for pub crawls and enjoying local drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The Haitian Monument is a key subject. The surrounding historic architecture and, during its season, the illuminated lanterns of the festival, are also great for photos.
During the Chinese Lantern Festival, Franklin Square is spectacular at night. Otherwise, the square is best photographed during daylight hours.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. For the lantern festival, a camera with good low-light performance is beneficial.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography may require permits. Always be respectful of others.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful light for the historic architecture. Daytime is good for the monument.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day for a more relaxed experience, or during a festival for added entertainment. Pack snacks and drinks, as dedicated family amenities might be limited. The open space can be good for kids to stretch their legs, but always supervise them closely.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take your time to explore the square and its surroundings, which are steeped in Savannah's rich past. Many historical walking tours include Franklin Square, providing in-depth narratives and context that enhance the visitor experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
If visiting during the Chinese Lantern Festival, the square becomes a photographer's dream with its vibrant, illuminated displays. This seasonal event offers unique opportunities for capturing stunning night photography. Remember to check event dates and consider bringing a camera with good low-light capabilities for the festival.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Haitian Monument: A Symbol of Alliance
The presence of this monument underscores Savannah's role in broader American narratives. It's a key stop for those interested in African American history and the complexities of the Revolutionary War. The monument's detailed craftsmanship and its prominent placement in the square make it a focal point for reflection and education.
Seasonal Spectacles: The Chinese Lantern Festival
Visitors rave about the intricate artistry and the sheer scale of the lantern displays. The festival often includes live performances and food vendors, adding to the festive ambiance. It's a highly anticipated event, and tickets can sell out, so booking in advance is strongly recommended. The transformation of the square into a luminous spectacle is a testament to its versatility as a public space, catering to both historical appreciation and modern entertainment.
Navigating Franklin Square: Tips from Travelers
Despite these minor drawbacks, the historical significance, particularly the Haitian Monument, is consistently praised. The square's location makes it a convenient hub for exploring Savannah's historic district. For those attending events like the Chinese Lantern Festival, the experience is often described as 'awesome' and a 'great place to learn about this historical place.' It's a dynamic space that offers different experiences depending on the season and time of day.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit