Savannah Halloween Activities For 2012

Savannah Georgia is said by some to be America's most haunted city.  It is, perhaps, for this reason that the city doesn't bother with the usual Halloween haunted house attractions.  Why bother setting up something fake when you have the real thing?  However, there are still plenty of fun activities offered in our beautiful city in the Halloween Spirit!  Member B and Bs of the Romantic Inns of Savannah welcome you to enjoy these less-traditional spook-tacular activities during your getaway.

What's Halloween without The Rocky Horror Picture Show?  From October 19, 2012 through November 2, 2012, the Bay Street Theatre invites you to again witness the spectacle that is Rocky Horror.  Brad Majors, Janet Weiss, Dr. Frankenfurter, and Rocky himself will all be there.  Will you?

Some of Savannah's favorite Ghost Tours are even more popular during October and Halloween.  While this is far from all of them, here are some of the more popular tours:

The Ghosts & Gravestones of Savannah Tour:  This 75-minute nighttime tour features a spooky trolley ride to explore both the Gribble House (the scene of a 1909 triple-murder), and the very haunted River Street Perkins and Sons Ship Chandelry - a location visited only by this particular PG-13-rated tour.  Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and no children under the age of 4 are allowed.

The Savannah Scary Ghost Tour takes you on a 90-minute trip to our city's most popular haunted locations, including the Colonial Park Cemetery, the Pirates' House, and the Hampton-Lilibridge House (one of the most haunted houses in Savannah).  You must make reservations at least 48 hours in advance for this tour.

The Sixth Sense Savannah Tour covers real-life locations of poltergeist, hag, exorcism, disembodied spirits, and more.  This 2-hour tour is offered at 7:00pm for families, and at 9:30pm for guests aged 18 and older only.

The Beyond Good and Evil Tour is a 90-minute walking tour to cemeteries, Calhoun Square, and the stories behind the popular book "Midnight In The Garden Of Good And Evil."  The stories are original, and the guide is very knowledgeable.

The Most Haunted House in Savannah tour takes you inside the Sorrel Weed House to explore the city's most haunted house first-hand.  Many reports of strange activities come from this particular tour.  Even TAPS (The Atlantic Paranormal Society, as seen on SyFy) explored this location, making it their first Halloween special ever!

Special haunted tours do come out just at Halloween time:

• The Savannah Midnight Ghost Tour explores the back streets of Savannah after midnight.  The tales told are definitely for mature audiences only.  Available from October 26, 2012 through November 3, 2012.
• The Savannah Ghosts and Ghouls Tour is a family-oriented Halloween specialty.  Children 12 and under will be given a treat basket (please mention how many you are bringing), and with kid-friendly stories of some of the city's haunted locations.  Available from October 26, 2012 through November 3, 2012.
• The Halloween Ghost-Hunting Experience at the Sorrel Weed House is an interactive, guided hunt with some of the same equipment used by TAPS to investigate this very site.  Available from October 19, 2012 through October 31, 2012.  Group size is limited to 15 people, and the tour lasts 3-4 hours, starting at 11:30pm.  Guests are welcome to bring their own ghost-hunting equipment to the tour as well.

With the old, Gothic feeling of Savannah adding to the atmosphere, what better place is there to visit around Halloween than our beautiful city?  Your Savannah Innkeeper can help you find the perfect activity for your tastes and scare-level.  Welcome to a fun Halloween in Savannah!

Crystal Beer Parlor: A Savannah Staple Since 1933

So often, our guests ask us to recommend a place to go have a beer, grab a bite to eat, and relax during their stay.  And more often than not, we direct them to the Crystal Beer Parlor. This unassuming building has been a favorite of locals and favorites since 1933, and is one of our favorite places to spend an evening... And we hope it becomes the same for you.

The location itself started as a grocery store in the early 1900s owned by a family who lived upstairs.  In 1933, they sold the building to William "Blocko" and Connie Manning, who turned the building into a restaurant - just in time to be one of the first establishments to serve alcohol after prohibition ended. The restaurant and bar has been a staple in Savannah ever since.

People rave about the food and service, not to mention the fun and relaxed atmosphere.
 

The menu features sandwiches, burgers, and dogs with a selection of vegetarian options ans full dinners.  Definitely try the crab stew, amazing onion rings, burgers (including the buffalo burger), shrimp po-boy, she-bo stew, oyster sandwich, fried Georgia Shrimp, and make sure to save room for the peach cobbler!

The beer selection is large.  There are consistently seasonal options on tap and some fun micro brews.  And of course,  the "Beers Of Our Fathers" are always available, in keeping with the historic tradition of the bar.

Owners John and Phillip Nichols welcome you a place in Savannah where you will see more locals than tourists. Their commitment to great food and service is apparent when most (if not all) of our guests return from then Crystal very happy with both their meals and the lingering ambiance. It is for this reason, and because of our own experiences at this restaurant attraction, that we will continue to recommend the Crystal Beer Parlor and send our guests on over!

Forsyth Park is a Beautiful Savannah Natural Attraction

Savannah is a town of amazing natural beauty. Strolling through our streets is a refreshing experience. While many U.S. cities are more concrete than green, our town was designed around green space. As you make your way throughout Savannah's Historic District, you will notice the 'squares': signature landmark green spaces built into the very plan of our city. Almost every nine-block area contains one 'square' of green space in the middle - think of them as mini-parks. However, as you explore the Historic District further, you are bound to run into a massive green area in the center of town. This 20-acre area is known as Forsyth Park, is the center of many of our city's outdoor events, and is used by residents and visitors alike for outdoor activities.

With a history dating back to the early 1700s the original park lands were home to much of our earliest British and European settlers, and later hosted Civil war encampments before settling into the role of parade grounds, and then to the Forsyth Park we know today. The park itself was created in the 1840s when William Hodgson, who thought that the city needed a park, donated 10 acres of land. In 1851 the park was expanded to 30 acres after a donation of land by Georgia Governor John Forsyth, and the park was subsequently named in his honor.

In 1858, the park became home to a Parisian-inspired cast iron fountain designed to resemble the structure at Place de la Concorde. This same fountain still stands on the north end of the park today. Each year, the waters at Forsyth Fountain are colored green for Saint Patrick's Day to commemorate Savannah's strong Irish heritage, and is one if the park's most-visited attractions.

The center of the park is home to the Confederate Memorial Statue to commemorate those who gave their life fighting for the Confederacy during the Civil War. The park is also home to a one-mile walking/skating/biking path that passes beneath moss-draped oaks, an amphitheater, an amazing-smelling garden for the blind, tennis and basketball courts, large grassy areas for picnics and social sports, the Savannah Shamrocks Rugby Club's home field, and Savannah's official Christmas tree in December.

The park is located in Savannah's Historic District, surrounded by bordered by stately mansions lining Gaston Street on the north, Drayton Street on the east, Park Avenue on the south and Whitaker Street on the west. On any given day at the park you may see wedding tents, outdoor concerts, soccer tournaments, exhibits, and tennis matches. You will definitely see plenty of people and lots of natural beauty!

If you are planning a Savannah getaway, Forsyth Park is definitely a sight to see during your time here! Our member innkeepers can give you additional ideas of places to explore within the park, and will have your cozy room ready for your return.

Especially for Train Lovers: The Roundhouse Railroad Museum

Does the sight of twin-tracks make you smile?  Do you get giddy with the sound of that distant whistle?  Does your heart beat in time to the cadence of a locomotive?  Do you stare longingly at the end of a train, knowing that today's children will never feel the delight at the sight of that red caboose?  If so, Savannah's Roundhouse Railroad Museum is a must-see during your stay at a bed and breakfast in Savannah, GA!

Both a State Museum and a National Historic Landmark, the Roundhouse is a railroad-lover's dream, and a popular area attraction.  In 1850, ground was broken on what would become the largest existing railroad terminal and repair shop complex in the US.  The Central Railroad had offices and buildings that handled passengers, goods, maintenance, and manufacturing.  Of the original Central of Georgia Railway complex buildings, thirteen still stand today - five with permanent exhibits.

The Roundhouse proper is one of those thirteen buildings left, and the turntable is still operational on-site.  Visitors can also see steam and diesel locomotives, a variety of rail cars (including cabooses!), the 126-foot smokestack, model railroads, and more!

The Museum is open from 10am to 4pm daily for self-guided tours.  Pricing is $10 for Adults, and $6 for Children 6 and under (children 1 year and under are free).  Admission includes a train ride and any extra onsite activities that may be happening that day.  The Museum is at the very northern corner of downtown at 601 West Harris Street.

When you plan your Savannah bed and breakfast vacation, make sure to plan some time for the Roundhouse Railroad Museum.  Member inns of the Romantic Inns of Savannah look forward to your visit!

Tybee Island GA, Savannah Attractions

Visit Tybee Island, GA During Your Stay

Just 20 minutes east of Savannah is Tybee Island:  Savannah's Beach.  This Savannah attraction is a laid-back beach destination for the entire family that lets you get away from the city for the day, with the knowledge that your comfortable Savannah bed and breakfast awaits your return.

Tybee Offers Great Savannah Attractions

Want to hit the beach?  While the Savannah River isn't a great place to hit the sand, Tybee Island features 3 miles of uninterrupted public beach for the entire family to enjoy!

Fishing is an ideal activity around the island.  Fish off of piers, take an off-shore or deep-sea charter, or fish right on the beach!  Please note that Georgia does require a fishing license.  Luckily, Georgia hunting and fishing licenses are available from nearly 400 license agents in many sporting goods stores, marinas, bait and tackle stores, hardware stores, etc throughout the state.

Wildlife abounds in the salt marshes on Tybee Island.  If you are a bird-watcher, this is the place to see during your stay in Savannah!  Pelicans, terns, plovers, gulls, terns, skimmers, and more call Tybee Island their home during at least some of the year.

Need a bite to eat during your Tybee Island visit?  Over 25 eateries offer everything from sandwiches, to pizza, to (of course) fresh Gulf seafood!

The art scene is alive and well on the Island, as locally-created paintings, jewelry, and more are offered at shops and galleries throughout the island.

Destination attractions on the Island include the Tybee and Cockspur lighthouses, Tybee Marine Science Center, Fort Pulaski, and the Tybee Pier & Pavillion.

Tybee Island is a great day-trip destination during your extended Savannah getaway!  Enjoy a full day of everything Tybee Island has to offer before returning to your Savannah, Georgia bed and breakfast for a good night's rest in preparation for the next day of your Savannah adventures!

Savannah Haunted Tours, Savannah Sightseeing

With Savannah's beauty, rich history, and southern charm, is it any wonder the residents resist leaving?  But add in a few, less-ideal times in history, and you might just get some residents who CAN NOT leave!  Ghost hunting is a popular pastime, and Savannah's past, mystique, beauty, and charm make it an ideal destination for those who seek evidence of another form of life and death entirely.  Enjoy Savannah haunted tours during your stay at a Savannah Georgia bed and breakfast!

Named to be the most haunted city in the US by the American Institute of Parapsychology in 2002, Savannah is full of paranormal mystery and intrigue, both day and night.  The city is routinely visited by parapsychologists and both professional and amateur ghost hunters.

Among our more well-known haunted locations are the Bonaventure Cemetery, The Pirate's House restaurant, the Hampton Lillibridge House, Moon River Brewing Company, Colonial Park Cemetery, and Sorrel Weed House, to name a few.

Nearby Tybee Island boasts of its own spirits.  The north beach neighborhood is said to be home to a past resident.  Lazaretto, the quarantine area for colonial ships, passengers, and residents on the island's very western tip is said to be haunted.  And the Tybee Lighthouse Station has been named the most haunted place in America!

There are many local groups that offer ghost tours lasting between 75 minutes and 2.5 hours during the year.  Around Halloween, many longer and more in-depth hunts can be found in the area.

Even some of our member inns are rumored to have spirits of their own.  You never know who, or what, you might meet during your stay at our Savannah bed and breakfasts!

River Street in Savannah, Savannah Attractions

Not from the Savannah area?  No matter.  You have probably still seen references to River Street in Savannah.  Mentioned here, there, and everywhere, River Street seems to have everything a visitor could ever want to see.  But does it?  What is it?  And what's there?  Rest assured that this one road has enough attractions to keep you busy for several hours of your Savannah Getaway.

A registered Historic Site, River Street is the main thoroughfare of the historic district's north side.  And, true to its name, it is also the main road along the Savannah River in the city.  Full of historical buildings and landmark, River Street also sees festivals, parades, First Friday Fireworks, and other city events.

When you arrive at River Street from your Savannah, GA bed and breakfast you will find yourself transported to historic Savannah, onto cobblestone streets with gas lanterns.  Enjoy the sight of the old cotton warehouses - centuries old - that have been converted to galleries, boutiques, antique shops, pubs, restaurants, an open-air market, and more!  Savannah's streetcar system travels through River Street, making access to any part of the riverfront easy once you are there.

Want to see River Street from the river?  Savannah Riverboat Cruises offers everything from sightseeing cruises to historic and dinner cruises along the Savannah River from which you can see much of the architecture and personality of River Street.  For something a bit different, the Savannah River Street Pirates cruises (to open in Spring, 2012) offer fun for the entire family while cruising up and down the Savannah River along River Street.  Make sure to keep an eye out for the Waving Girl during your river voyage!

Enjoy your day and evening on River Street, and then catch a streetcar back to one of our charming Savannah Inns where you can spend the evening unwinding and sharing stories with your innkeepers, other guests, or simply hide away in the comfort of your room.

Savannah City Market, Savannah GA Shopping

The inns of Historic Savannah recommend a visit to the Savannah City Market during your stay in our beautiful city for some great Savannah, GA Shopping!

Just two blocks from River Street on Jefferson at West Saint Julian St, the City Market came to life during the mid 1700's when it became the social and commerce center of the city.  Fishermen and farmers brought their goods for sale, residents came to meet up and purchase goods, and many businesses offering daily needs of the residents were established here.  Three main market buildings came and went during the following 200 years before the Market was threatened to be eliminated for good.

But Savannah is nothing if not history-minded!  Thanks to the efforts of the Historic Savannah Foundation, the Savannah city Market is now back in business and seems to draw in both tourists and locals for good food, shopping, museums, galleries, and entertainment in this charming two-block area of shops, businesses, galleries, eateries, and attractions.

There are still sights similar to those in the early day, as horse-drawn carriages and friendly faces can be found even today.  Shops now offer everything from antiques, to Savannah-made gifts.  Restaurants vary from casual to upscale, and all offer some great tastes of the City.  Live music can often be heard throughout the area, and the clubs offer some of the best jazz in the city.

Fourteen galleries and twenty-one artistic studios will satisfy your taste of the visual arts.  Daily entertainment is also offered in the courtyards most days of the weeks, weather permitting.  Kids especially enjoy our dancing waters area, and many will brave the unknown patterns and the chance to get a little wet!  There is always something to do and see at the City Market!

Just a short distance from the market itself, you can take some time to visit the First African Baptist Church, one of the oldest 'black' churches in America, and enjoy her history and atmosphere.  You can also stop by the Ships of the Sea Museum and enjoy models of famous ships, a beautiful garden, and gift shop.

A number of special events take place in the City Market courtyards and establishments throughout the year.  Some of the more popular events are the Valentine's Day Renewal of Vows Ceremony, Holiday Open House, and annual New Year's Eve Celebration.

But make plans now to enjoy the City Market's Saint Patrick's Day events, beginning Friday, March 16, 2012, and ending at the end of Saturday, March 17, 2012.  If you aren't a fan of the huge River Street Crowds, the City Market is the perfect place to celebrate all things Irish!  You'll see lots of green, lots of dancing, and lots of fun!  Live music can be enjoyed between noon and midnight both days of the celebration.

If you aren't in town for a Savannah City Market event, please keep in mind that most area businesses close at 6pm during the week.  Restaurants and clubs are open later, of course!

So add the Savannah City Market to your To Do list during your stay at a beautiful Savannah bed and breakfast!