If you’re looking for a green oasis in the middle of Savannah, Georgia, Forsyth Park is the place to be. This historic park has been a public space since 1841, and it boasts a stunning fountain, a fragrant garden, and dozens of local landmarks. Forsyth Park is a perfect spot for a picnic, a jog, or a day of exploring.
Where is Forsyth Park?
Forsyth Park is a large city park that occupies 30 acres in the historic district of Savannah, Georgia.
Tips for visiting Forsyth Park
- You can enjoy the park for free.
The iconic fountain, playgrounds, historic monuments, fragrant garden, and acres of green space of Forsyth Park are free to the public. - Open containers are permitted.
Unlike most public parks in the US, you can walk around freely with your to-go beverages here as long as they’re in a to-go container. - It’s downtown in the Savannah historic district.
Forsyth Park is about a mile away from River Street, making it easy walking distance from most places downtown. If you’re driving, there’s plenty of free parking available in front of the visitor center and on side streets. - Spring is the prettiest season here.
Forsyth Park has gorgeous scenery year-round, but spring is particularly beautiful with splashes of pink and white azaleas in bloom everywhere.
The Best Things To Do in Forsyth Park
Let’s explore some of the top attractions near the park, from peoplewatching and strolling to fine dining.
1. Take in the scenery
Forsyth Park is the perfect place to spend the afternoon strolling around. The winding 1.5 mile loop guides visitors through lush greenery draped with live oaks and Spanish moss. Plus, the expansive greenspace is perfect for picnics, festivals, and events.
2. Snap a selfie at the famous Forsyth Park fountain
On the north end of the park, you’ll find the one of the most photographed spots in all of Savannah: the Forsyth fountain. Modeled after a water feature in a Parisian palace, this historic landmark has been featured in at least 15 film and television productions.
3. Enjoy the Forsyth Farmers Market
Open every Saturday from 9AM-1PM year-round, rain or shine, you’ll find the Forsyth Farmers Market. Pick up some local meat, eggs, or produce to cook up in your Airbnb. Or maybe grab a treat to enjoy while you stroll. It’s also a great spot for souvenirs from local honey to fresh coffee roasted on Tybee Island.
4. Catch a live show or festival
In the southern end of the park, you’ll see the Forsyth Park Bandshell, which is home to music concerts and creative festivals. Fall is definitely peak festival season for Savannah, but there are plenty of choices year-round:
- Celtic Festival and St Patrick’s Day Celebrations (March)
- Sidewalk Arts Festival (April)
- Savannah Jazz Festival (September)
- Picnic in the Park “PIP” with Savannah Philharmonic (October)
- Savannah Pride (October)
5. Stop and smell the roses (literally)
Tucked behind a wrought iron gate, you’ll find a unique hidden garden that appeals to scent, rather than vision. Experience The Garden of Fragrance for free, anytime between 9am and 2pm on weekdays.
6. Have a picnic in the park
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No visit to the park is complete without a picnic experience. For something quick, stop by the to-go window at Collins Quarter at the Park. If you want to plan something special like a romantic date or bachelorette party, Savannah Picnic Company can drop off a custom luxury picnic kit for you.
7. Experience live music, art, and performances
The park is a haven for live music, artist booths, and street performances. For decades, Forsyth Park has attracted a beloved community of visual artists, musicians, and more. You can catch an array of music, displays, and performances anytime between 9am and 10pm.
8. Get active
If you’re in the mood to get your heart pumping, Forsyth Park has a ton of activities to offer. The 30 acre park has a 1-mile walking loop, bikes for rent, tennis and basketball courts, and a huge greenspace. Bring a frisbee, a soccer ball, and some friends, and you’re guaranteed to have a good time.
9. Grab brunch and a latte
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An early visit to Forsyth Park means it’s time for coffee and brunch. Check out these neighborhood favorites:
- Sentient Bean:
Hip vegetarian coffee shop and cafe with lots of gluten free and vegan options like breakfast burritos and all day brunch. - Collins Quarter:
An excellent cafe and bakery right in the middle of the park. They’ve got a huge patio shaded by live oak trees and Spanish moss.
10. Go gourmet
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Forsyth Park offers fine dining options that match Savannah’s impressive culinary reputation:
- Local 11Ten:
A farm-to-table dinner experience in a refurbished historic bank building, complete with a rooftop bar. - St. Bibiana:
Impeccable Italian cuisine in a glamorous 1880s mansion (Hotel Bardo Savannah).
11. See the sights in the Victorian District
The south side of Forsyth Park borders an incredible area of town known as the Victorian District. Here, you can check out sprawling mansions from the late 1800s to early 1900s that are known for their Gilded Age flair.
12. Explore the nearby squares
The park is close to 2 of Savannah’s historic squares, which are smaller parks that were part of the city’s original grid layout:
- Taylor Square, on Abercorn and Wayne streets. The only square with all of its original buildings intact.
- Monterey Square, on Bull and Wayne streets. One of the most picturesque squares in the city.
13. Stay at a historic inn near Forsyth Park
After a sun-drenched day in Forsyth Park, it’s time to kick back and relax at one of the most beautiful historic inns in the area. The House on Taylor is a boutique property in the heart of Taylor Square, with recently renovated private suites and luxe amenities that make you feel like a local. It’s a short walk away from Forsyth Park and everything the historic district has to offer.
