The "Georgia Queen," Excursion Boat
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River Street Savannah

4.7
·138 reviews·Savannah, United States

Historic cobblestone streets lined with shops, galleries, and eateries along the scenic Savannah River.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

CrowdLow
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The "Georgia Queen," Excursion Boat

River Street Savannah

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic cobblestone streets lined with shops, galleries, and eateries along the scenic Savannah River.

4.7
(138 reviews)

"It's like Europe, with a lot of things to do around: restaurants, shops, bars, and creamery stores!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Cobblestone Comfort

Wear comfortable shoes! Those historic cobblestones are beautiful but can be tough on your feet. :athletic_shoe:

🅿️ Parking Pointers

Weekend parking is tough. Arrive early or consider ride-sharing for easier access. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Cobblestone Streets

Historic Cobblestone Streets

Walk on the very stones that once balanced slave ships, a poignant reminder of history.

Riverfront Views & Boat Tours

Riverfront Views & Boat Tours

Enjoy scenic river vistas and consider a Savannah Riverboat cruise for a different perspective.

Unique Boutiques & Eateries

Unique Boutiques & Eateries

Explore charming shops, galleries, and indulge in local flavors like pralines and seafood.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Cobblestones

River Street's historic cobblestones are charming but can be tricky. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes to avoid slips and stumbles. Parking can be challenging on weekends, so consider arriving early or exploring alternative transport options.

Embrace the Riverfront Vibe

River Street is a lively hub with shops, eateries, and bars. Plan to spend a good chunk of time exploring the unique boutiques and enjoying the waterfront atmosphere. Don't miss trying local specialties like pralines and seafood.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, live music
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This morning 07/06/2025 on River Street in Savannah, Georgia. This caught me off guard.
@onebabydoll0
22.1K likes • 381.2K views

👟 Cobblestone Comfort

Wear comfortable shoes! Those historic cobblestones are beautiful but can be tough on your feet. :athletic_shoe:

🅿️ Parking Pointers

Weekend parking is tough. Arrive early or consider ride-sharing for easier access. :car:

What hurts you blesses you. Darkness is your candle. #irunsavannah #stairmaster #riverstreet #savannahga #Love #fyp #foryou #leader
@irunsavannah
15.7K likes • 150.9K views
Savannah weekend plans? Handled. Crafts on the River is the spot—local makers, river views, and treasures you won’t find anywhere else. I grabbed a dreamy candle from Candles by Christi, beaded handmade jewelry from Howard Bead Boutique, and treats for the fur baby at @wheeliegoodtreats Wheelie Good Dog Treats. Handmade everything and seriously good vibes. Happening every last weekend of the mo...
scentstyletravel
17 likes • 362 views

🍬 Sweet Treats

Don't miss free praline samples at River Street Sweets! :candy:

🚢 Riverboat Views

A Savannah Riverboat cruise offers unique perspectives of the riverfront. :ferry:

Olympia Café moves one step closer to staying on River Street Good news for fans of spanakopita and gyros on the river — Olympia Café has been selected by the City of Savannah in the bid process to remain in its longtime home at the base of the Thomas Gamble Building. Earlier this year, there was real concern that the Greek restaurant might lose its River Street spot after decades in business, b...
savannahmadesimple
758 likes • 16.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Cobblestone Comfort

Wear comfortable shoes! Those historic cobblestones are beautiful but can be tough on your feet. :athletic_shoe:

🅿️ Parking Pointers

Weekend parking is tough. Arrive early or consider ride-sharing for easier access. :car:

🍬 Sweet Treats

Don't miss free praline samples at River Street Sweets! :candy:

🚢 Riverboat Views

A Savannah Riverboat cruise offers unique perspectives of the riverfront. :ferry:

🛍️ Shop Local

Discover unique handmade crafts and souvenirs at River Street MarketPlace. :shopping_bags:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(138 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about River Street's European-like charm, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse offerings, from shops and restaurants to river views. It's considered a must-visit for its iconic cobblestones and lively waterfront. Some find parking challenging on weekends, and the historic cobblestones require comfortable footwear.

"Beautiful place, it’s like Europe. My ideal fun place, the boat and the trolleys, next time when I travel to Savannah, I will be well prepared. There are parking places , but on weekends, parking might be difficult due to space limitations."

abimbola Saka

"Love e river side. A lot of things to do around. Restaurants, shops, bars, creamery stores…. Don’t miss it 💖"

Ingrid Baez

"Lovely place, kid and dog friendly.. cute little boutique shops. A nice view of the river and you get to read about some of our war heroes."

Irene Jayma

What People Like

European charm
Riverfront views
Shopping and dining variety

What People Dislike

Weekend parking
Cobblestone difficulty

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

River Street is easily accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby, though they can fill up quickly on weekends.Reddit Many visitors also opt for ride-sharing services or enjoy a scenic walk from other parts of downtown Savannah. Public transportation options are also available, connecting you to this historic waterfront.

Yes, there are parking garages and street parking options, but be prepared for limited availability and higher costs, especially on weekends.Reddit Arriving early in the day is recommended for better parking chances.

If your hotel is in the historic district, walking to River Street is a pleasant option. The area is very walkable, but be mindful of the cobblestone streets.TikTok

Walking is the best way to experience River Street's charm and discover its many shops and restaurants.TikTok Consider a riverboat tour for a different perspective of the waterfront.Instagram

Yes, the DOT Express Shuttle offers free rides around Savannah, including stops near River Street, making it a convenient way to get around without a car.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, River Street itself is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. You can stroll along the waterfront, browse shops, and enjoy the atmosphere for free.TikTok

Most shops and restaurants on River Street are open daily, typically from late morning to early evening. Some may have extended hours, especially on weekends or during peak tourist seasons.

River Street MarketPlace is an open-air market, and entry is generally free. You'll only pay for any items you choose to purchase from the local vendors.Instagram

Yes, many Savannah tours, including ghost tours, trolley tours, and historical walking tours, often include stops or pass by River Street, offering insights into its history.TikTok

Absolutely! Several companies offer riverboat tours departing from River Street, providing scenic views and historical commentary. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods.Instagram

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

You absolutely must try the pralines from River Street Sweets for a classic Savannah treat! Seafood, especially shrimp and grits and she-crab soup, are also highly recommended.TikTok+1

River Street is packed with unique shops. Explore River Street MarketPlace for handmade crafts Instagram and browse the many boutiques for local art, jewelry, and Savannah-themed souvenirs.TikTok

Yes, River Street offers a variety of dining options that cater to families. Many restaurants have casual atmospheres and diverse menus that appeal to children, and the riverfront setting is always a hit.

You'll find a diverse range of shops, including boutiques, art galleries, souvenir stores, candy shops, and specialty stores selling everything from local crafts to apparel.Instagram

Definitely! River Street has numerous bars and pubs, including Wet Willie's for frozen daiquiris, offering a lively atmosphere to enjoy a drink with river views.Instagram

📸 📸 Photography & Vibe

Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos, casting a warm glow on the historic buildings and river.Instagram Early mornings are also great for fewer crowds and softer light.

River Street has a vibrant, historic, and somewhat gritty charm. It's a lively mix of old-world architecture, bustling shops, and waterfront activity, offering a unique Southern atmosphere.TikTok

Absolutely! The cobblestone streets, historic brick buildings, river views, and the iconic River Street Inn provide numerous picturesque spots for photography.TikTokInstagram

These are a set of steep, historic stone stairs on River Street known for their treacherous nature. They offer a unique, albeit challenging, photo opportunity and a glimpse into the area's past.TikTok

Yes, especially during the evening when the lights twinkle and the river breeze is pleasant. The historic charm and waterfront setting create a romantic ambiance.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

River Street is a fantastic destination for families! Kids will love the novelty of the cobblestone streets and the variety of shops, especially the candy stores like River Street Sweets.Instagram The riverboat tours offer an engaging way to see the city, and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus. It's also dog-friendly, so your furry friends can join the fun too.Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While River Street can be a bit touristy, budget-conscious travelers can still enjoy it. Take advantage of free praline samples Instagram and window shop. Consider packing your own snacks and drinks, or look for more casual eateries away from the immediate waterfront. The free DOT Express Shuttle is also a great way to save on transportation.

💖 Couples

River Street offers a romantic backdrop, especially in the evening. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river, take in the historic architecture, and find a cozy spot for dinner. A sunset riverboat cruise or enjoying live music at one of the pubs can add a special touch to your visit.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Poignant History of River Street's Cobblestones

The iconic cobblestones lining River Street are more than just a charming historical feature; they hold a somber and significant history. These stones were originally ballast stones used to stabilize slave ships during the transatlantic journey.

When ships arrived in Savannah, these heavy stones were unloaded and used to pave the riverfront. This practice directly links the street's foundation to the brutal history of the slave trade, serving as a tangible reminder of the enslaved Africans who were brought to America. As one TikTok creator noted, 'those cobblestones on Savannah's River Street—they're not just decoration—they are the ghost cargo of slave ships'.TikTok

Walking on these stones today offers a profound connection to the past. It's a moment to reflect on the resilience of those who endured immense suffering and the complex history that shaped Savannah. Many visitors find this aspect of River Street deeply moving and a crucial part of understanding the city's heritage.

Experiencing River Street: From Shopping to Comedy

River Street in Savannah is a dynamic destination offering a wide array of activities beyond its historical significance. For shoppers, the River Street MarketPlace is a highlight, featuring local artisans and unique handmade goods.Instagram You can find everything from intricate jewelry to custom candles, making it a perfect spot for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Foodies will rejoice with the abundance of culinary options. River Street Sweets is famous for its complimentary praline samples, a must-try Savannah delicacy.Instagram For a more substantial meal, the area boasts numerous restaurants serving fresh seafood, classic Southern dishes, and international cuisine.TikTok Don't forget to grab a frozen daiquiri from Wet Willie's for a refreshing treat.Instagram

Beyond shopping and dining, River Street offers entertainment. You can catch live music performances TikTok or even enjoy stand-up comedy at venues like Dub's, which hosts free comedy nights.Instagram For a different perspective, consider a Savannah Riverboat cruise, offering scenic views of the city and its historic waterfront.Instagram

Where to Stay: Hotels on River Street Savannah

For an immersive experience, staying directly on or near River Street offers unparalleled convenience and atmosphere. The River Street Inn is a prime example, an iconic historic hotel right on the cobblestone streets, providing southern elegance with a unique twist.TikTok It's a popular choice for those seeking to be in the heart of the action.

Several other hotels cater to visitors looking for hotels on River Street Savannah GA or hotels in Savannah GA near River Street. These accommodations often boast stunning river views and easy access to the waterfront's attractions. Options range from boutique inns to larger hotels, ensuring a fit for various preferences and budgets.

When searching for hotels on River Street in Savannah GA, consider factors like room amenities, proximity to specific attractions, and guest reviews. Many of these hotels are housed in beautifully restored historic buildings, adding to the overall charm of your Savannah visit. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for hotels with prime riverfront locations.