Waving Girl Statue - Malbine
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Waving Girl Statue

4.6
·969 reviews·Savannah, United States

A poignant statue on Savannah's River Street, commemorating Florence Martus's enduring vigil of waving to ships.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Quieter atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Waving Girl Statue - Malbine

Waving Girl Statue

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Quieter atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A poignant statue on Savannah's River Street, commemorating Florence Martus's enduring vigil of waving to ships.

4.6
(969 reviews)

"The story of the Waving Girl is so tragically poetic, but her statue is gorgeous."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Moment

Visit in the evening for a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful lighting for photos.

❤️ Hear Her Story

Learn about Florence Martus's dedication; it adds depth to the statue's charm.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Waving Girl Statue

The Waving Girl Statue

River Street

A poignant tribute to Florence Martus, forever waving to ships on the Savannah River.

Riverfront Views

Riverfront Views

Adjacent to the statue

Enjoy picturesque vistas of ships sailing by and the bustling Savannah River.

The Tragic Romance

The Tragic Romance

Story behind the statue

Learn about Florence Martus's enduring love and her 44-year vigil for a sailor.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Peace

To truly appreciate the Waving Girl statue and its serene riverfront setting, aim for weekday evenings. This avoids the peak crowds often seen on River Street, allowing for a more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities.

Embrace the Story

The Waving Girl statue commemorates Florence Martus, who famously waved to ships for 44 years, awaiting her sailor love's return. Understanding her poignant story enhances the visit and adds a layer of historical depth to this iconic Savannah landmark.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Who else has visited the Waving Girl?👋 👧 #reels #savannah #statue #wavinggirlstatue #history #fulltimetravel #rvliving #homeschool
theshinpaughs
19 likes • 1K views

📸 Capture the Moment

Visit in the evening for a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful lighting for photos. Instagram

❤️ Hear Her Story

Learn about Florence Martus's dedication; it adds depth to the statue's charm. Instagram

24hrs in Savannah 👋🏼 Start your day with a visit to the Waving Girl statue, located on River Street. 🍭 Candy Kitchen on River Street. They have delicious handmade candies and you can watch the candy makers in action. 🌅Catch the sunset view at River Street. Take a stroll along the riverfront and soak in the beautiful colors as the sun sets over the bridge . 🍴Vic’s on the River. Located in a h...
losborisontheroad
38 likes • 653 views
On This Day in 1943, “The Waving Girl” passed away. Florence Martus is immortalized with a statue on Savannah’s River Street. She was known for waving to approaching ships.To learn more about local history, visit Savannah History Museum or one of the other 5 museums operated by Coastal Heritage Society. https://chsgeorgia.org/ #coastalheritagesociety #visitsavannah #thingstodoinsavannah #georgiah...
coastal_heritage_society
12 likes • 342 views

🚶‍♀️ Stroll River Street

The statue is a perfect stop while exploring the historic River Street. Reddit

🚢 Watch the Ships

Enjoy the ongoing parade of ships from this scenic riverfront spot. Reddit

Friday evening in Savannah! We saw the famous waving girl statue down by the Savannah River (she waved at ships going by morning, noon and night for 44 years waiting for her boyfriend to return!). We went to the Prohibition Museum. We needed air conditioning but the museum was really interesting. Then we had to have Leopoldo’s ice cream, no visit would be complete without it. Leopoldo’s has been o...
rvscadventures
19 likes • 239 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Moment

Visit in the evening for a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful lighting for photos. Instagram

❤️ Hear Her Story

Learn about Florence Martus's dedication; it adds depth to the statue's charm. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll River Street

The statue is a perfect stop while exploring the historic River Street. Reddit

🚢 Watch the Ships

Enjoy the ongoing parade of ships from this scenic riverfront spot. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(969 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are charmed by the Waving Girl Statue, often finding its story deeply moving and poetic. The statue is praised as a beautiful work of art and a peaceful spot to enjoy river views and watch ships. While some find the surrounding area can get busy, many appreciate the historical significance and the serene atmosphere, especially during quieter times.

"Such a beautiful work of art to commemorate Florence. The one landmark I was really excited to see while visiting, and she was worth it. We when in the evening around 5 on a week day and it was pretty quiet. The few that walked up took a photo or two but kept the peace in staying quiet perfect view of the river from there with a green space to the right and plenty of benches with shade to relax in after walking River Street."

Jordan Forsyth

"Beautiful just like the store behind it, very peaceful and nice to watch the ships come in and out"

Christine Kirkland

"Aw, the story of the Waving Girl is so tragically poetic, but her statue is gorgeous, as are the surrounding botanicals, and views of the harbor."

Jan Marie O (Jan Marie)

What People Like

Poignant story
Beautiful statue
Peaceful river views

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Waving Girl Statue is located on River Street in Savannah, Georgia. It's easily accessible by walking along River Street, which is a popular tourist area. Many visitors arrive via trolley tours or by parking in nearby garages and walking down to the riverfront. InstagramReddit

Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available near River Street. However, parking can be limited and expensive, especially during peak times. Consider using a parking app to find available spots. Reddit

While there isn't a direct bus stop right at the statue, Savannah's public transportation system can get you close to the River Street area. From there, it's a short walk. Trolley tours are also a popular way to see the statue and surrounding attractions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Waving Girl Statue is a public art installation and a landmark on River Street. There is no admission fee, and you can visit it at any time. Instagram

The statue is accessible 24/7. However, for the best experience, consider visiting during daylight hours for clear views or in the early evening for a more peaceful atmosphere and beautiful lighting. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings or late afternoons, especially during the 'golden hour,' offer beautiful lighting for photographs. Weekday evenings are also less crowded, allowing for unobstructed shots. InstagramReddit

Try capturing the statue with the river and passing ships in the background for context. A slightly lower angle can emphasize its presence against the sky. Reddit

🎫 ❤️ The Story & History

The statue commemorates Florence Martus, who lived in Savannah and reportedly waved to every ship that passed through the Savannah River for 44 years, waiting for her sailor sweetheart to return. InstagramReddit+1

Florence Martus lived from 1868 to 1943. The statue was erected in her honor to remember her dedication and unique tradition. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Waving Girl Statue offers a simple yet engaging stop for families. The story of Florence Martus, who waved to ships for years, can be a captivating tale for children, sparking their imagination about sailors and the sea. Instagram It's a great opportunity to talk about history and enduring love in an accessible way. The statue is located on River Street, which is generally safe and has plenty of space for kids to walk around. Reddit

While on River Street, consider visiting the nearby Candy Kitchen for a sweet treat, which is always a hit with younger visitors. The open space near the statue also provides a pleasant spot to rest and watch the boats go by, offering a moment of calm amidst a busy day of sightseeing. Instagram

❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways

The Waving Girl Statue and its story offer a touch of romantic history perfect for couples. The poignant tale of Florence Martus's unwavering devotion is a beautiful backdrop for a stroll along the riverfront. Reddit Enjoy the scenic views of the Savannah River together, perhaps during the golden hour for a particularly romantic atmosphere. Instagram

Consider visiting in the evening when the area is quieter, allowing for more intimate moments. The peaceful ambiance near the statue, combined with the gentle sounds of the river, creates a serene setting for couples to connect and reflect on the enduring power of love. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Poignant Legend of Florence Martus

The Waving Girl Statue is more than just a piece of art; it's a monument to a deeply romantic and enduring legend. Florence Martus, a Savannah native, is said to have stood by the riverfront for 44 years, faithfully waving to every ship that entered or departed the port. Her vigil was a testament to her love for a sailor, whom she waited for to return. This story, though tinged with sadness, has captured the hearts of many and is a significant part of Savannah's maritime history. InstagramReddit+1

Visitors often find the story incredibly moving, adding an emotional layer to their experience. The statue itself is a beautiful representation of Florence, forever captured in the act of greeting the vessels. It serves as a reminder of loyalty, hope, and the passage of time, making it a unique and memorable landmark on River Street. Reddit

Learning about Florence's dedication before or during your visit can significantly enhance your appreciation for the statue. Many find that understanding her story transforms a simple photo opportunity into a moment of reflection on love and perseverance. Reddit

Experiencing River Street

The Waving Girl Statue is situated on the iconic Savannah River Street, a historic cobblestone thoroughfare brimming with charm and activity. This area was once a hub for cotton shipping and is now a vibrant destination for tourists. Strolling along River Street offers a glimpse into Savannah's past, with its old warehouses converted into shops, restaurants, and galleries. InstagramReddit

Beyond the statue, River Street invites exploration. You can find unique souvenirs, indulge in handmade candies at the Candy Kitchen, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. The riverfront provides excellent vantage points to watch container ships, tugboats, and other vessels navigate the waterway. It's a perfect place to relax on a bench, soak in the views, and feel the pulse of the city. Reddit

Many visitors combine their visit to the Waving Girl Statue with a broader exploration of River Street. The area is particularly enjoyable in the late afternoon or early evening when the crowds may thin slightly, and the ambiance becomes more relaxed. It’s a quintessential Savannah experience that blends history, commerce, and scenic beauty. InstagramReddit

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