Spent a Year in Savannah, GA!

One of the highlights of my time in Savannah was undoubtedly my countless visits to the beautiful Tybee Island. Oh, the sunsets there are straight out of a dream! I started out living 40 minutes away from the beach and then had the luxury of moving closer to where I was only 10 minutes away! I have always said everyone needs a happy place. My happy place is the beach! Any time I was feeling down in the dumps, having an off day or having a great day, I went to Tybee! If you want to be around people, the pier is the best spot to set up at! If you want some privacy, go down past the pier and once you hit houses find a beach entrance and there will hardly be anyone there!

Now, let's chat about my absolute FAVORITE dining spot in the heart of Savannah – Bull Street Taco. This gem stole my heart (and my taste buds) with its mouthwatering tacos and taco salad. They also have the best chips and salsa! Now, don't get me started on the margs. Margaritas are my go-to and their Margarita Mondays were dangerous! It quickly became my go-to spot for casual lunches and cozy dinner. I became a regular and the waitress would ask me "Payton, are we having the usual today?" Obviously YES!

But let's not forget the vibrant River Street, where you can find some of the best places to unwind and enjoy a drink with a view. The laid-back atmosphere combined with the stunning riverfront setting creates the perfect backdrop for memorable evenings. In this charming city, you can stroll around certain areas with your favorite beverage in hand since they allow open containers! It's like a perpetual happy hour where you can explore the beauty of Savannah's streets while enjoying a refreshing drink. This law adds an extra layer of relaxation and fun to the city's already vibrant atmosphere. The legal way to consume said drinks are in a plastic, 16-ounce cup (not bottles, mugs or flasks) and in the parameters of the Historic District. This encompasses everything from River Street to Jones Street and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard to West Broad Street. It's the kind of experience that truly sets Savannah apart and adds to its undeniable charm. So, whether you're wandering down River Street or exploring the squares, don't forget to grab your favorite drink and make the most of this unique feature that only adds to the city's allure! Here are my top 5 places to grab a drink to-go Downtown:

1. Savannah Tequila Comany
   1. I go for their Cucumber Magarita! It is quite pricey....I believe $16 but it is so refreshing! 
2. Savannah Tequila Company
   1. Their frozen mars are cheap and so good! They are quite strong so have fun!
3. Jen & Friends Martini Bar
   1. They have ALL kinds of martinis and drinks! I like the desert ones the best!
4. The Warehouse
   1. This is my go-to for cheap beer!
5. Moon River Brewing Company
   
   1. If you love breweries like me, this place is a must!

And speaking of views, let's talk rooftop bars! Savannah knows how to do them justice. There's just something about sipping a drink while overlooking the city's historic architecture that feels utterly enchanting. Here are my top 5 favorite rooftop bars Downtown Savannah:

1. Eletric Moon Skytop Lounge
   1. Drinks are a little on the pricey side but the atmosphere is AMAZING and they have a slide!
2. Top Deck Bar
   1. Yummy drinks and an amazing view!
3. Myrtle & Rose Rooftop Bar
   1. I always go here to drink wine for some reason! They also have a charcuterie board that was so yummy!
4. The Grove Savannah
   1. The atmosphere is so fun here! They have amazing drinks and food!
5. Rocks on the Roof
   1. Great drinks and another go to wine place!

Now, let's dive into the world of flavors that Savannah has to offer. Southern cuisine reigns supreme here, and I indulged in some of the most mouthwatering dishes. From classic comfort food like shrimp and grits to innovative fusions that tickled my taste buds, Savannah's food scene never ceased to amaze me.

1. Bubba Gumbos
   1. This restaurant is on Tybee Island but is by far the best seafood restaurant!
2. Savannah Tequila Company
   1. Their nachos are to die for!  They are located on River Street and have a beautiful view of the river!
3. Flying Monk Noodle Bar
   1. I got the regular ramen!  Located on West Broughton Street!
4. Treylor Park
   1. The Treylor Park Nachos Grande are bomb! Instead of chips, it is fries! I could never finish by myself! Located on East Bay Street!
5. Coco & Moss Sushi
   1. I LOVE sushi! So everything here is amazing! Located on Barnard Street!

Lastly, let's talk about my go to running spots in Savannah!

1. Forsyth Park
   1. The most gorgeous place to run! I always felt super safe and there is always people around! 
2. Tybee Island Beach
   1. The beach in the morning and in the fall/winter/spring (when not a lot of people are there) is the best!
3. River Street
   1. I would typically run from Forsyth to River Street! The morning is the best because it is not super crowded and it is not too hot!

To sum it all up, my year in Savannah, GA was an absolute whirlwind of beauty, flavors, and unforgettable moments. Tybee Island stole my heart, Bull Street Taco satisfied my cravings, Bubba Gumbo's delighted my seafood-loving soul, and the riverfront and rooftop bars provided the perfect ambiance to make lasting memories. If you're looking for a city that effortlessly combines history, culture, and a laid-back coastal vibe, Savannah should be right at the top of your list. Until next time, keep exploring and savoring life's delicious moments! 

Bonus: If you LOVE line dancing like me, Saddlebags is a MUST!!!

All the best,

Payton Duncan