Things to do with teens?

Question

We are thinking of taking a day trip to Savannah from Hilton Head with our three older teens. What kinds of things are there for them to do that will keep them interested for the day? I saw the ghost tours, which I think they would like. I personally love the scenery in that part of the world, but I know they will get over it quickly so I definitely want to have some more specific plans.

Answer

Taking a day trip to Savannah with your teens sounds like a great idea! Savannah offers a mix of history, adventure, and unique experiences that can easily keep teenagers engaged. While the city is known for its beautiful scenery and historic charm, there are plenty of activities that will add some excitement to their day and keep everyone entertained. Here are some suggestions for things to do in Savannah with teens:

Ghost Tours:
- As you mentioned, ghost tours are a hit with teens. Savannah is often considered one of the most haunted cities in the U.S., so the spooky stories combined with a walk through the historic district can be both fun and a little thrilling. Several tour options are available, including walking tours, trolley tours, and even haunted pub crawls.
- If your teens like the idea of a little adventure mixed with history, a ghost tour could be a great way to explore the city’s most famous haunted spots. Some tours even offer late-night options which might be more appealing for teens.
River Street:
- River Street is the heart of Savannah’s waterfront and a bustling area full of shops, restaurants, and street performers. Teens will enjoy the lively atmosphere, shopping for unique souvenirs, and grabbing a sweet treat (like pralines, a Savannah specialty).
- They can also watch the ships pass by on the Savannah River, and you might even spot dolphins occasionally. There are also plenty of ice cream shops and other casual food spots to keep them happy.
Explore Forsyth Park:
- Forsyth Park is a large and beautiful park in the historic district. While the teens may not be interested in sitting down for a picnic, they’ll likely enjoy walking around and taking in the views of the iconic Forsyth Fountain and the lush gardens.
- The park is also home to basketball courts, so they can take a break from sightseeing to play a quick game if they want. It's a nice spot to unwind and let off some energy before continuing your adventure.
Tybee Island (if you have time):
- If your teens enjoy the beach, consider taking a quick detour to Tybee Island, just 20-30 minutes from Savannah. It’s a great spot for a relaxing afternoon, offering a mix of sun, sand, and ocean fun.
- There are also activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, or even renting bikes to ride along the beach. It’s a nice way to break up the sightseeing and let everyone cool off and have some fun by the water.
SCAD Museum of Art:
- The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) operates an excellent museum that might appeal to your teens, especially if they’re into art or design. It’s not just about traditional art – the museum features a lot of modern, interactive, and thought-provoking exhibits that can captivate the younger crowd.
- It’s a nice way to introduce them to some culture while still keeping things interesting. Plus, it’s in a central location so it’s easy to combine with other activities in the area.
Thunderbolt Skate Park:
- If your teens are into skateboarding or just looking for an active break, head to Thunderbolt Skate Park, which is a short drive from downtown Savannah. It’s a well-maintained park with various ramps and rails for all skill levels.
- Even if they’re not skaters, they can watch the action and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the park.
Food Tours or Culinary Experiences:
- If your teens are foodies (or just enjoy trying new things), you could book a food tour to taste some of the local specialties, like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, or pralines. There are several options for walking tours that focus on food, offering both a cultural and culinary experience.
- Alternatively, visit a local market or food hall like the Forsyth Farmers' Market, where they can sample local produce, snacks, and fresh treats.

While Savannah is rich in history and architecture, it’s definitely possible to have a fun, engaging day with your teens. With a mix of history, food, outdoor activities, and maybe a few spine-chilling ghost stories, they’ll have a day to remember. You can easily combine a few of these suggestions into a fun and action-packed itinerary that will keep everyone interested!