Christmas day

Question

We're visiting your fair city this Christmas. Our downtown hotel provides breakfast & we have dinner reservations. Any suggestions for what to do in between those two events?

Answer

Spending Christmas Day in Savannah can be a delight even if many businesses are closed. Since you have breakfast and dinner covered, the midday hours are perfect for leisurely exploring the city, enjoying its historic charm and holiday decorations.

Here are some ideas for things to do between your meals:

Stroll through the Historic District: Walk off breakfast while admiring the decorated squares, historic homes, and oak-lined streets. Many residents put up beautiful Christmas lights and decorations.
Forsyth Park: Take a relaxing walk through this iconic park. The fountain and surrounding gardens are especially photogenic during the holidays.
River Street: Even if some shops are closed, the waterfront is still lovely to walk along. You can enjoy the river views, historic cobblestones, and festive atmosphere.

If you prefer indoor options to stay warm or avoid walking too much:

Visit churches: Many historic churches, like the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, may have Christmas services or allow visitors to see their beautiful interiors.
Hotel lounge or lobby: Some hotels have cozy lounges with fireplaces and holiday decorations where you can relax, read, or have a light snack or coffee.
Drive-through holiday lights: Some nearby neighborhoods and parks offer drive-through light displays, which can be a fun, low-effort way to enjoy holiday decorations.

Overall, the day is ideal for soaking in Savannah’s historic ambiance, taking leisurely walks, and enjoying the holiday spirit. Since many restaurants and attractions close early, planning low-key, scenic activities is the best way to spend the hours between your meals.