Family trip to Savannah in March

Question

My family (myself, dad, kids ages 5, 8, and 10) like to go on 4-5 day trips in the winter to get out of chilly PA. I found a reasonable flight to Savannah for March 13-17. Will it be very crowded for St. Patrick's Day? I had read somewhere that is a popular place to go, but it was unclear just how much.

I am also looking for recommendations on area to stay in - I was thinking either Historic District or Tybee Island instead. I guess my preference would be somewhere we can mostly walk, though we will likely rent a car anyway.

Lastly, if there are any worthwhile places within an hour of Savannah that kids tend to like. We like science museums, sports, nature. I have a bunch of things written down already for Savannah but I figure if we do rent a car, a day trip somewhere else might be nice.

Many thanks.

Answer

It sounds like a fantastic trip! Savannah is a beautiful city with a lot to offer, especially for families. March can be a great time to visit, but you are correct that St. Patrick’s Day can bring a lot of visitors. Here’s some detailed information to help you plan your trip:

1. Crowds During St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah is a huge celebration, and it’s considered one of the largest and most well-known St. Patrick’s Day festivals in the United States. While the official holiday falls on March 17, the celebrations in Savannah can start several days before and continue throughout the weekend. The Historic District, especially around River Street, will be particularly crowded, with parades, festivals, and lots of people. This means that the area will be very lively, and it can be harder to get around or find parking, especially on the day of the parade. However, if you and your family enjoy lively atmospheres and don’t mind crowds, it can be a fun experience.

If you prefer a quieter experience, you might want to plan your activities around the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, such as visiting the quieter areas of the city or exploring Tybee Island during the busiest days.

2. Where to Stay: Historic District vs. Tybee Island

Both the Historic District and Tybee Island have their unique appeals, and your choice depends on what kind of experience you're looking for.

Historic District: Staying in the Historic District is ideal if you want to be in the heart of Savannah, with easy walking access to major attractions like Forsyth Park, the Savannah Riverfront, River Street, and the beautiful historic squares. There are plenty of family-friendly hotels in this area, and it's easy to explore most of the city on foot. Since you'll likely rent a car, you'll have easy access to other areas like Tybee Island, too.
Tybee Island: Tybee Island is a great option if you’re looking for a more relaxed, beachside experience. It’s about a 20-minute drive from downtown Savannah and offers a laid-back vibe with the beach, nature trails, and the famous Tybee Island Lighthouse. While it’s quieter than the Historic District, you’ll still be close enough to visit Savannah’s attractions. If you enjoy having a balance of beach time and city exploration, Tybee is a great choice. However, you may need to drive a bit more to explore the historic downtown area.

3. Day Trips Within an Hour of Savannah

If you’re renting a car, there are several excellent day trips near Savannah that are great for kids and offer a mix of science, nature, and outdoor fun:

Oatland Island Wildlife Center: Just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, this wildlife center features a variety of animals native to the region, including wolves, bobcats, and birds of prey. The kids will enjoy walking the trails and learning about wildlife and nature.
Skidaway Island State Park: About 30 minutes from Savannah, this state park offers beautiful trails, wildlife viewing, and plenty of outdoor space to explore. There’s also a nature center where you can learn about the local environment, making it a great spot for kids to connect with nature.
Fort Pulaski National Monument: Located about 15 miles from Savannah, Fort Pulaski is a historic Civil War fort surrounded by scenic nature trails. It’s a great spot for history buffs and families, with interactive exhibits and tours available. The kids will love exploring the fort and learning about its history.
Old Fort Jackson: This historic site is located just outside of downtown Savannah and offers a great interactive experience for kids. It’s one of the oldest military sites in Georgia and offers educational programs and reenactments that kids tend to enjoy.
St. Simons Island: A bit further (around 1 hour 15 minutes away), St. Simons Island is a beautiful barrier island with beaches, nature reserves, and a historic lighthouse. The island has a more relaxed atmosphere, and you can explore the beautiful scenery or visit the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum.

4. Things to Do in Savannah with Kids

Here are some family-friendly things to do in Savannah, especially if you prefer to stay within the city:

The Georgia State Railroad Museum: This museum offers interactive exhibits, train rides, and educational programs that will captivate your kids while teaching them about the history of railroads in Georgia.
The Savannah Children's Museum: Located in the historic Central of Georgia Railway Carpentry Shop, this outdoor museum offers hands-on exhibits for kids to explore. It’s a fun, interactive experience that younger children especially enjoy.
River Street: While River Street can be busy during the St. Patrick’s Day festivities, it’s also a fun place to walk around, shop, and sample local sweets like pralines and fudge. The kids will love the candy stores and maybe even a short ride on the Savannah Belles Ferry.
Boat Tours on the Savannah River: Consider taking a family-friendly boat tour along the Savannah River. It’s a relaxing way to see the city from the water and gives everyone a chance to sit back and enjoy the views.

Conclusion: If you enjoy a lively atmosphere and want to be close to the action, the Historic District is the best place to stay. However, if you want a more relaxed vibe with easy access to the beach, consider Tybee Island. There are plenty of fun family activities both in Savannah and within a short drive, so you’ll have lots of options for both indoor and outdoor adventures. March is a great time to visit Savannah, but do be prepared for the busy St. Patrick's Day weekend, especially around downtown.

Hope this helps, and enjoy your family trip to Savannah!