There’s a certain magic to a city built on a river, where history flows as steadily as the water itself. In Savannah, Georgia, this connection is palpable along its famous riverfront. A stroll here is a journey through time, with centuries-old cobblestone streets under your feet and the gentle current of the Savannah River beside you. The air is filled with the scent of saltwater mixed with sweet pralines, the sound of a distant ship's horn blending with live music from a riverside tavern. For any travel enthusiast, exploring Savannah’s riverbank is an essential experience that captures the city's unique charm and vibrant soul.

A Tale of Two Levels: Historic River Street

Savannah’s riverfront is a fascinating, multi-layered destination. The most famous part is Historic River Street, a bustling, energetic thoroughfare that runs right alongside the water. This isn’t your typical sidewalk. The street itself is made of cobblestones, known as ballast stones, that are over 200 years old. These stones were used in the holds of sailing ships to keep them stable on their voyage from Europe. Once the ships arrived in Savannah, the stones were unloaded to make room for cotton and other goods, and then used to pave the city's streets. Walking on them today is a tangible connection to centuries of maritime history.

Lining River Street are beautifully restored cotton warehouses, their historic brick facades now housing a lively mix of shops, restaurants, and hotels. These massive buildings, once the economic engine of the city, have been given a new life. As you walk, you'll be tempted by the smells wafting from candy stores, where you can watch confectioners stretch and shape saltwater taffy right before your eyes. You’ll find unique souvenirs in the eclectic boutiques and art galleries that showcase local talent.

One of the most captivating aspects of River Street is watching the massive container ships glide silently past. These modern giants are a stark and fascinating contrast to the historic setting. It’s a powerful reminder that the Savannah River is not just a scenic backdrop; it remains one of the busiest ports on the East Coast. Finding a bench, grabbing a praline, and watching one of these colossal vessels navigate the channel is a simple, yet uniquely Savannah, pleasure.

The New Addition: Plant Riverside District

Just west of the historic stretch of River Street lies its modern counterpart: the Plant Riverside District. This ambitious development has revitalized a former power plant, transforming it into a vibrant entertainment hub. While it has a completely different feel from the old cotton warehouses, it beautifully complements the riverfront experience.

The architecture of the repurposed power plant, with its towering smokestacks, is a landmark in itself. Inside, you'll find a high-end hotel, a variety of restaurants, upscale bars, and live music venues. The district is also home to quirky shops and even a giant, chrome-dipped dinosaur skeleton fossil that has become a popular photo spot.

The riverwalk in the Plant Riverside District is spacious and modern, offering plenty of seating and beautiful landscaping. It seamlessly connects to the historic part of River Street, allowing you to easily walk between the old and the new. It's the perfect place to enjoy a craft cocktail at a rooftop bar while watching the sunset over the river and the Talmadge Memorial Bridge.

Getting Around: Stairs, Bridges, and Elevators

One of the unique features of Savannah's layout is that the main part of the city sits on a 40-foot-high bluff overlooking the river. This means you have to get down to River Street from the historic squares above. This descent is part of the adventure.

The most historic and atmospheric way to get down is via the "Stone Stairs of Death," a nickname given to the steep, often slippery stone staircases that connect Bay Street to River Street. While their name is an exaggeration, they do require careful footing, but they offer a fantastic sense of arrival as you descend into the past.

For a less precarious route, there are several bridges and modern elevators conveniently located along the bluff. These provide easy access for everyone and offer great photo opportunities as you make your way down to the water. The elevator located in the Plant Riverside District is a sleek, modern option, while the public elevator near City Hall is centrally located.

Across the Water: A Different Perspective

To fully appreciate the beauty of Savannah’s riverfront, you need to see it from the water. There are several ways to do this, each offering a different experience.

Savannah Riverboat Cruises: For a classic and relaxing experience, step aboard one of the iconic red, white, and blue riverboats. These paddle-wheelers offer a variety of tours, including daytime sightseeing cruises that provide narration on the city's history and its port, and evening dinner cruises with live music and dancing. Seeing the city lights twinkle on the water from the deck of a riverboat is a truly romantic and memorable experience.

The Savannah Belles Ferry: For a quick, easy, and free way to get on the water, hop on the Savannah Belles Ferry. This public water taxi service runs between three stops: one on River Street, one at the Waving Girl Landing near the Eastern Wharf, and one across the river at the convention center. The short trip across the channel offers a fantastic, panoramic view of the entire riverfront, from the historic warehouses to the modern Plant Riverside District. It's a great way to get your bearings and capture some stunning photos.

Sights and Monuments Along the Riverbank

As you stroll along the riverfront, keep an eye out for several important monuments that tell the story of Savannah.

  • The Waving Girl Statue: Located in a small park at the eastern end of the riverwalk, this statue honors Florence Martus. For 44 years, from 1887 to 1931, she greeted every ship that entered the port of Savannah by waving a cloth, becoming a beloved symbol of the city's hospitality.
  • The African American Monument: This poignant monument, unveiled in 2002, is one of the few in the country dedicated to the experience of enslaved people. It depicts a family embracing, with broken chains at their feet, and features an inscription by the poet Maya Angelou. It is a powerful and important reminder of a difficult part of Savannah's history.
  • The World War II Monument: Nicknamed "A World Apart," this monument features a striking bronze globe split in half, representing the two theaters of the war. It’s a tribute to the soldiers from Chatham County who served and sacrificed during the conflict.

Tips for Your Riverbank Stroll

  1. Wear Comfortable Shoes: This cannot be overstated. The cobblestones on River Street are uneven and can be tough on your feet and ankles. Choose sturdy, comfortable walking shoes.
  2. Explore Both Levels: Don't just stay on River Street. Be sure to explore Bay Street and the historic squares on the bluff above. The shops and restaurants up there offer a different, often more local, flavor.
  3. Visit at Different Times: River Street has a different personality throughout the day. The mornings are quiet and peaceful, the afternoons are bustling with activity, and the evenings are alive with music and nightlife.
  4. Take Advantage of the Open Container Policy: Savannah's historic district has an open container policy, meaning you can purchase an alcoholic beverage in a plastic to-go cup and enjoy it as you walk around.

A stroll along Savannah's riverbank is a rich, multi-sensory experience. It’s a place where you can feel the weight of history in the stones beneath your feet while watching the commerce of the future glide by on the water. It is, in every sense, the heart and soul of this enchanting Southern city.