HISTORIC SOUTH
The Historic South is a tapestry of American elegance, where Charleston and Savannah weave together centuries of captivating history, lush coastal landscapes, and renowned Southern hospitality.
This subregion is the heart of the Lowcountry, famous for its grand Spanish moss-draped oaks, preserved colonial architecture, and a culinary scene steeped in Gullah-Geechee heritage and coastal flavor.
Most Popular Attractions
Historic City Cores & Architecture:
Historic District (Savannah): The largest National Historic Landmark District, known for its 22 park-like squares, cobblestone streets, and antebellum homes.
Historic District (Charleston): Famous for its pastel-colored, impeccably preserved architecture, including the distinct “single house” style.
Rainbow Row (Charleston): A series of thirteen colorful historic houses on East Bay Street, a quintessential Charleston photo opportunity.
Forsyth Park (Savannah): A beautiful 30-acre city park dominated by its iconic, ornate white fountain.
River Street (Savannah): A lively historic waterfront street lined with old cotton warehouses now housing shops, restaurants, and hotels.
The Battery (Charleston): A scenic defensive seawall and promenade lined with grand antebellum mansions overlooking Charleston Harbor and the Ashley River.
City Market (Charleston): A historic public market dating back to the 1790s, stretching four blocks, famous for sweetgrass basket weavers.
Bull Street (Savannah): The central spine of the Historic District, connecting five of the major squares.
Washington Square (Charleston): A charming public square surrounded by historic buildings and a peaceful respite.
Colonial Park Cemetery (Savannah): The oldest surviving cemetery in Savannah, a beautiful and atmospheric historic site.
Museums & Historic Sites:
Fort Sumter National Monument (Charleston): The sea fort where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Accessible by ferry.
Old Slave Mart Museum (Charleston): Dedicated to preserving the history of the slave trade in Charleston, located in a former slave auction gallery.
Telfair Museums (Savannah): Comprised of three distinct sites: the Telfair Academy, the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, and the Jepson Center for the Arts.
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum (Charleston): Home to the historic aircraft carrier USS Yorktown, a Cold War-era submarine, and a destroyer.
Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor: Spans the Lowcountry, preserving the unique culture, language, and traditions of West African descendants.
Nathaniel Russell House Museum (Charleston): An outstanding example of neoclassical architecture and one of America’s most important houses.
Plantations & Gardens:
Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens (Charleston area): Famous for its stunning Avenue of Oaks, a working plantation with a rich history.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens (Charleston area): One of the oldest public gardens in America, known for its romantic-style gardens and Audobon Swamp Garden.
Middleton Place (Charleston area): Home to America’s oldest landscaped gardens, designed in the classic English style.
Wormsloe Historic Site (Savannah area): A stunning avenue shaded by live oaks and Spanish moss that leads to the tabby ruins of a colonial-era estate.
Coastal & Unique Attractions:
Tybee Island (Savannah area): Savannah’s beach town, featuring a historic lighthouse and fishing pier.
Isle of Palms (Charleston area): A barrier island with miles of white sand beaches and the seaside resort of Wild Dunes.
Savannah Theatre (Savannah): Claimed to be one of the oldest continually operating theatres in America.
The American Prohibition Museum (Savannah): The only museum in the US dedicated to the history of the temperance movement and Prohibition.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Ghost & Graveyard Tour: Embrace Savannah’s reputation as “America’s Most Haunted City” or Charleston’s spooky history with a guided walking tour through historic cemeteries and dimly lit squares.
Stroll The Battery and Rainbow Row (Charleston): Walk the iconic Charleston waterfront promenade and admire the grand antebellum mansions, culminating in the vibrant pastel facades of the famous Rainbow Row.
Explore the Historic Squares of Savannah: Wander through Savannah’s 22 historic squares, admiring the Spanish moss-draped live oaks and notable monuments like the Chippewa Square (famous from Forrest Gump).
Visit a Lowcountry Plantation: Tour a historic plantation like Boone Hall, Magnolia Plantation, or Drayton Hall to learn about the region’s complex past, including the lives of the enslaved people.
Take a Hands-On Lowcountry Cooking Class: Learn to prepare classic dishes like Shrimp & Grits, She-Crab Soup, or a Lowcountry Boil from a local chef in a hands-on kitchen experience.
Kayak or Canoe in the Black Water Swamp: Go on an eco-tour through a unique natural environment like the Cypress Gardens (Charleston) or Ebenezer Creek (Savannah), paddling beneath cypress and tupelo trees.
Tour Fort Sumter National Monument (Charleston): Take a ferry ride out to the sea fort where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired, and explore the historic structure with a National Park Service Ranger.
Shop the Historic City Markets: Browse for local goods, art, and the famous Gullah-Geechee sweetgrass baskets at the Charleston City Market and Savannah City Market.
Explore Bonaventure Cemetery (Savannah): Take a guided or self-guided tour of this beautifully serene and hauntingly Gothic cemetery, made famous by the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
Go on a Lowcountry Food & Wine Tour: Enjoy a culinary walking tour in either city, sampling local delicacies from farm-to-table restaurants and learning about the region’s culinary history.
Visit a Gullah-Geechee Heritage Site: Learn about the unique West African-influenced culture of the Lowcountry, with sites like the Pin Point Heritage Museum (Savannah) or the Old Slave Mart Museum (Charleston).
Local Tips & Transport
Historic Districts are Highly Walkable: Both cities’ historic downtown areas are best explored on foot. The compact nature of Savannah’s squares and Charleston’s “South of Broad” streets make walking the primary and most enjoyable way to sightsee.
Ride-Sharing and Taxis: While walking is easy in the center, services like Uber/Lyft or local taxis are necessary for transfers between the cities’ separate historic centers and the many attractions outside of downtown (e.g., plantations, beaches, and airports).
Getting Between Cities: Driving is the most direct method (about a 2-hour, stress-free drive). For those without a car, intercity bus services or pre-booked transfers are the available options.
Free Public Transport Options:
- Charleston: Utilize the CARTA DASH Trolley (Downtown Area Shuttle) service, which offers free routes covering the main tourist sites in the Historic District.
- Savannah: Take advantage of the Fare Free Express Shuttle (DOT) which runs a loop connecting the Visitor Center, River Street, and key downtown stops.
Embrace Southern Hospitality: The locals in both cities are renowned for their friendly, polite, and sometimes slower pace of life. A little patience and a respectful, courteous demeanor (like starting interactions with a friendly greeting) goes a long way.
Dining Times: Meals are typically eaten at traditional American times (Lunch: 12 PM–2 PM; Dinner: 6 PM–8 PM). Restaurants can book up well in advance, especially the James Beard-recognized establishments, so reservations are essential for dinner.
Open Container in Savannah: Savannah’s Historic District is one of the few places in the US that allows for a “to-go” cup (usually a plastic cup of up to 16 ounces) for alcoholic beverages. Check the specific boundaries, but you can enjoy a cocktail while strolling the squares.
Humidity and Heat: The summers (June-September) are defined by intense heat and high humidity. Plan outdoor activities for the early morning and late afternoon, and take frequent breaks in air-conditioned museums or shops. Hydration is key!
The Lowcountry Cuisine: The food is a distinct blend of West African, European, and Caribbean influences, often featuring rice, seafood, and vegetables. Be sure to try authentic dishes like Pimento Cheese, Hoppin’ John, and fresh oysters.
Hidden Gems:
- Jones Street (Savannah): Often cited as the prettiest street in the city, with a picturesque canopy of live oaks and perfectly preserved brownstones.
- The Powder Magazine (Charleston): The oldest public building in South Carolina, this tiny but significant colonial military structure (built in 1713) is a quiet history escape.
- Wormsloe State Historic Site (Savannah): The breathtaking 1.5-mile oak avenue lined with Spanish moss provides a quintessential Southern photo opportunity and leads to the ruins of Georgia’s oldest structure.
- Angel Oak Tree (Johns Island, near Charleston): An enormous Southern Live Oak estimated to be several hundred years old, offering a powerful look at natural Southern beauty.
Top Restaurants
Rodney Scott’s BBQ [$15-$25] – A James Beard Award-winning whole-hog barbecue joint in Charleston, bringing authentic, smoky, pit-cooked barbecue from Hemingway, SC, to the Lowcountry.
The Glass Onion [$15-$25] – A Charleston local favorite serving pitch-perfect, from-scratch Southern comfort food like po’boys, fried chicken, and classic sides in a no-frills, home-grown environment.
Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit [$10-$20] – A small, popular spot in Charleston with a cult following for its warm, buttery, and flaky bite-sized biscuits with a variety of sweet and savory fillings.
Green Truck Pub [$15-$25] – A beloved Savannah neighborhood spot celebrated for serving one of the city’s best burgers, with a focus on fresh, local, and organic ingredients in a casual setting.
The Wyld Dock Bar [$20-$35] – A unique Savannah eatery with a laid-back, outdoor atmosphere and stunning marsh views, specializing in fresh, locally-sourced seafood, including boils and unique daily catches.
Geneva’s Famous Chicken and Cornbread [$15-$25] – A hidden gem in Savannah, highly praised for its exceptional, down-home Southern cooking, specializing in perfectly fried chicken and savory cornbread.
Narobia’s Grits & Gravy [$15-$25] – A classic, no-frills Savannah spot known for its hearty breakfast and Southern staples, including great grits and homemade gravy.
Crystal Beer Parlor [$15-$25] – One of Savannah’s oldest restaurants, a classic Mom & Pop-style establishment offering traditional American fare, pub food, and local favorites like creamy crab soup.
Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room [$20-$35] – A Savannah institution offering a unique, family-style Southern meal at communal tables, featuring classics like fried chicken, collard greens, and mashed potatoes (cash only, no reservations, expect a wait).
Jestine’s House of Comfort Food [$15-$25] – A popular Charleston restaurant known for serving classic, comforting Southern fare like delicious fried chicken and other Lowcountry staples in a casual, homey atmosphere.
Basic Kitchen [$20-$35] – A bright and airy Charleston spot focused on fresh, clean, and seasonal food, serving healthy and inventive takes on comfort classics with a bustling local vibe.
Rancho Lewis [$20-$35] – A New Mexico-inspired spot in Charleston, offering exceptional Tex-Mex, including great brisket, fajitas, and breakfast tacos, popular with a local crowd.
Lewis Barbecue [$15-$30] – A Charleston destination for Texas-style barbecue, famed for its brisket, smoked meats cut-to-order, and sides like Hatch green chile corn pudding.
The Ordinary Pub [$15-$25] – A cozy, rustic gastro-pub in a basement in Savannah’s historic district, known for its creative, savory brunch and pub food, including unique donut sliders.
Old Bull Tavern [$20-$35] – A self-proclaimed gastropub in Savannah offering a well-stocked menu of wood-fired pizzas, roasted oysters, and comforting entrees in a casual, spirited atmosphere.
Husk [$25-$45] – While nationally recognized, this Charleston staple is still a pillar of modern Southern cuisine, focusing on ingredients sourced exclusively from the South.
Common Thread [$30-$50] – A sophisticated Savannah restaurant located in a beautifully restored carriage house, serving a refined, modern take on Southern-inspired dishes with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
The Grey [$30-$50] – A nationally acclaimed Savannah restaurant set in a stunningly restored Greyhound bus terminal, offering sophisticated and inventive Southern cuisine with a focus on local history and ingredients.
Wild Common [$50-$80] – A highly-regarded Charleston restaurant that offers a refined, multi-course tasting menu experience in a chic, art-infused setting, known for its culinary artistry.
Honeysuckle Rose [$70-$120] – A unique, intimate tasting menu concept in Charleston, offering an eight-course culinary adventure with curated pairings and an interactive, non-stuffy atmosphere.
Chez Nous [$35-$55] – A small, romantic Charleston spot serving a concise, daily-changing French menu (only two appetizers, two entrées, and two desserts), emphasizing seasonal ingredients with European charm.
Magnolias [$30-$50] – A Charleston institution that ignited the city’s culinary renaissance, presenting upscale Southern cuisine with traditional ingredients elevated by a modern flair and artful presentation.
Obstinate Daughter [$25-$45] – A bright and popular restaurant on Sullivan’s Island (near Charleston) serving Italian-inspired, Southern-focused dishes, especially known for its pastas and fresh seafood.
Kultura [$25-$45] – A Filipino restaurant in Charleston’s Spring Street neighborhood that has quickly become a local favorite, offering flavorful, modern dishes with a pleasant side yard patio.
Malika [$15-$30] – The Mount Pleasant sister restaurant to Ma’am Saab, this is a popular spot for authentic Pakistani street food, known for its vibrant, flavorful, and modern takes on traditional dishes.
Leopold’s Ice Cream [$5-$15] – An iconic Savannah establishment since 1919, famous for its homemade, world-class ice cream with secret family recipes, a must-visit for a nostalgic treat.
The Ordinary [$35-$60] – A beautiful oyster bar and seafood hall in a former Charleston bank, serving stunningly fresh, thoughtful seafood and Lowcountry classics with a contemporary approach.
Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar [$25-$45] – A casual yet highly-rated Charleston seafood spot with a unique location in a refurbished World War II military building, serving classic Lowcountry dishes with waterfront views.
Local 11ten Food & Wine [$30-$50] – A trendy Savannah spot with a cool, elegant vibe, serving creative American cuisine with a focus on seasonal Southern ingredients.
Vinnie Van Gogh’s [$15-$25] – A lively, popular, and non-touristy Savannah spot known for its delicious, inventive gourmet pizzas and eclectic atmosphere.
Driftaway Cafe [$20-$35] – A highly-regarded Savannah cafe with a neighborhood feel, offering fresh seafood, creative specials, and American cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere.
Noble Fare [$40-$70] – A Savannah restaurant offering flavorful, creatively innovative, and beautifully presented exquisite American cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
The Darling Oyster Bar [$30-$50] – A lively, stylish raw bar and seafood restaurant in Charleston’s Upper King Street area, known for its fresh oysters and retro-inspired aesthetic.
Little Palm [$15-$30] – A fun and uniquely decorated bar and seating area inside The Ryder Hotel in Charleston, offering a great cocktail menu and seasonal, ingredient-driven snacks and small plates.
Charleston Grill [$60-$100] – Considered the city’s gold standard for indulgent Southern dining, offering a contemporary international influence and impeccable service in an elegant setting with live jazz.
Circa 1886 [$70-$120] – An intimate fine dining venue set in the original carriage house of the Wentworth Mansion in Charleston, offering imaginative tasting menus and contemporary takes on classic Southern cuisine.
Peninsula Grill [$60-$100] – A Four-Diamond, Four-Star restaurant in the heart of Charleston’s Historic District, offering an elegant experience with Lowcountry-inspired dishes, prime steaks, and the famous Ultimate Coconut Cake™.
Alligator Soul Restaurant [$50-$90] – A sophisticated Savannah restaurant in a Colonial-era building, known for its upscale Southern and American cuisine, often featuring unique proteins like alligator or bison.
Elizabeth on Thirty Seventh [$60-$90] – A gold standard for fine dining in Savannah, serving impeccable Southern American cuisine in an elegant, non-stuffy setting, celebrated for its seasonal and regional focus.
High Cotton Charleston Restaurant [$50-$80] – Exuding warmth and celebration, this upscale restaurant in Charleston offers gracious hospitality and a menu of elevated Southern and coastal cuisine.
82 Queen [$40-$70] – Exuding traditional Charleston charm, this romantic dining venue is popular for classic Southern cuisine, especially loved for its beautiful courtyard dining.
Oak Steakhouse [$60-$100] – An upscale steakhouse in Charleston set inside a 150-year-old building, offering premium-aged steaks and a fine dining experience with historic character.
Chart House [$40-$70] – A Savannah waterfront dining spot located in the oldest masonry building in the state, offering a sleek, modern feel with a menu of seafood classics and legendary prime rib.
Sorelle [$60-$100] – A refined, high-end Charleston restaurant focusing on authentic Italian cuisine, offering a sophisticated and elegant dining experience.
Bintü Atelier [$20-$40] – One of Charleston’s first African restaurants, tucked in a house in Eastside, serving stunning mains like groundnut stew and fried soft-shell crab, a truly unique experience.
Da Toscano Porchetta Shop [$15-$25] – A unique spot in Charleston specializing in exceptional porchetta and other Italian-inspired sandwiches and snacks, including creative breakfast sandwiches.
The Vault Kitchen + Market [$20-$40] – Located in a historic former bank vault in Savannah, this restaurant offers a unique setting and a menu of modern, globally-inspired cuisine.
The Boathouse at Breach Inlet [$30-$50] – Located on Isle of Palms near Charleston, this is a beautiful waterfront spot with spectacular views (perfect for sunset), offering fresh seafood and a rooftop bar.
Olde Pink House [$30-$50] – Set in an 18th-century Georgian mansion in Savannah, this is a popular but historic and elegant dining experience, offering sophisticated Southern cuisine like fried green tomatoes and pecan-crusted flounder. (Reservations highly recommended, or try the basement tavern).
Chart House [$40-$70] – Located on Savannah’s waterfront in an historic building, this spot is unique for its combination of sleek modern interiors, waterfront views, and a menu of seafood classics and prime rib.
King BBQ [$15-$25] – A unique Charleston joint that marries traditional barbecue techniques and flavors from China and the American South, offering inventive dishes like char sao ribs and five-spice duck.
The Grey Market [$15-$25] – An all-day restaurant from the team behind The Grey, styled as a gas station/bus stop diner, serving breakfast, sandwiches, and Southern staples in a retro-cool Savannah setting.
Starland Yard [$15-$30] – Not a single restaurant, but a popular Savannah food truck park and gathering spot with a rotation of diverse food vendors, a central bar, and a vibrant, casual atmosphere.
Baker & Brewer [$15-$30] – A unique Charleston collaboration between a local bakery and a brewery, offering excellent wood-fired pizzas, a variety of house-brewed beers, and a casual, lively atmosphere.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Living Room (Charleston, SC): Tucked inside The Dewberry hotel in downtown Charleston, this elegant mid-century inspired bar offers a sophisticated atmosphere with carefully crafted, rotating seasonal cocktails.
The Gin Joint (Charleston, SC): A cozy, speakeasy-style spot in Charleston’s French Quarter, known for its “Dealer’s Choice” option where bartenders create a custom drink based on your preferred flavor profile.
Proof (Charleston, SC): Located just off King Street, this sleek bar features a curated list of artisanal spirits, fine wines, and classic cocktails in a minimalist, upscale setting.
Prohibition (Charleston, SC): Set in Charleston’s upper King Street district, this bar and restaurant channels the 1920s era with its décor and menu, offering both classic cocktails and modern interpretations.
Little Palm (Charleston, SC): Situated on the patio level of The Ryder Hotel in downtown Charleston, this vibrant, tropical-inspired bar offers refreshing and unique cocktails poolside.
The Darling Oyster Bar (Charleston, SC): While primarily a seafood restaurant on King Street, their beautifully appointed raw bar area serves outstanding classic cocktails, perfect for a lively pre-dinner drink.
Bay Street Biergarten (Savannah, GA): Found in Savannah’s historic downtown, this lively spot offers a massive selection of craft beer but also features a full bar with specialty Southern cocktails in a festive, communal setting.
The Wayward (Savannah, GA): Located in The Alida Hotel near River Street, this intimate craft cocktail lounge focuses on unique house-made ingredients and elevated bar snacks in a stylish, comfortable space.
Myrtle & Rose Rooftop Bar (Savannah, GA): Perched atop the Plant Riverside District on River Street, this floral-inspired bar offers stunning views of the Savannah River along with garden-to-glass cocktails.
Alley Cat Lounge (Savannah, GA): A true hidden gem located down a cobblestone alley in Savannah’s Historic District, this underground bar serves expertly mixed classic cocktails with a low-key, speakeasy vibe.
Artillery (Savannah, GA): Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century armory building in Savannah’s Historic District, this elegant lounge focuses on classic cocktails and rare spirits in a plush, refined atmosphere.
Peregrin (Savannah, GA): This chic rooftop bar at the Perry Lane Hotel in downtown Savannah offers panoramic views of the city’s historic squares alongside a sophisticated menu of signature cocktails.
The Lost Square (Savannah, GA): Located on the roof of The Alida Hotel near River Street, this bar provides an excellent vantage point for watching the ships on the Savannah River, offering creative and refreshing drinks.
Peacock Lounge (Charleston, SC): A stylish, dark, and romantic spot in downtown Charleston, known for its creative, inventive cocktail menu and intimate, high-end atmosphere.
Stars Rooftop & Grill Room (Charleston, SC): Offering a 360-degree view of downtown Charleston, this rooftop bar on King Street is a popular spot for sunset drinks and classic cocktails.
Club Trio (Charleston, SC): A multi-level nightclub in downtown Charleston known for hosting top DJs, live music, and featuring a massive dance floor, a rooftop deck, and several bars.
Republic Garden & Lounge (Charleston, SC): Located on King Street, this upscale venue features a popular garden lounge area and transforms into a high-energy nightclub on weekends with bottle service and high-end DJs.
NV Charleston (Charleston, SC): A premier nightclub in the heart of downtown Charleston, known for its modern lighting, VIP bottle service, and playing a mix of high-energy commercial and electronic dance music.
Music Farm (Charleston, SC): While primarily a live music venue in Charleston’s downtown area, it frequently hosts club-style dance nights and after-parties with local and national DJs.
Torch Club (Savannah, GA): A local favorite located downtown, known for its laid-back atmosphere during the week and transforming into a lively dance club with high-energy music on the weekends.
The Jinx (Savannah, GA): A cornerstone of Savannah’s music scene in the downtown area, this venue hosts touring bands and local acts, transitioning into a rock/alternative dance club late into the night.
Barrelhouse South (Savannah, GA): Found in Savannah’s lively downtown, this spot is known for hosting live bands and DJ nights, offering a spacious area for dancing and a great selection of drinks.
Electric Moon Skytop Lounge & Moon Deck (Savannah, GA): Part of the Plant Riverside District on River Street, this vibrant rooftop venue features inventive cocktails, a large outdoor deck with lawn games, and a high-energy atmosphere with live DJs that turns into a club scene.
Saddle Bags Savannah (Savannah, GA): Located near River Street, this is Savannah’s premier country music and line dancing bar, but it transitions into a high-energy dance floor with commercial hits later in the night.
Wild Wing Cafe (Charleston, SC): While a restaurant chain in North Charleston, its separate bar area often features live music and transforms into a lively late-night spot with dancing and a great social scene.