Savannah's architecture and history are internationally known, as is its reputation for southern charm and hospitality. Each year Savannah attracts millions of visitors from across the country and around the world. Savannah houses the nation's most valuable living collection of 18th and 19th century architecture. Founded by General James Oglethorpe in 1733, Georgia's colonial capital now encompasses six Historic Neighborhoods and each spring the people of Savannah open their doors to visitors during the Savannah Tour of Homes and Gardens. Savannah's downtown area is the largest National Historic Landmark District in the United States. Savannah is also noted for its St. Patrick’s Day celebration, the second largest in the country behind New York City.

In the 1930s and 1940s many of the distinguished buildings in the historic district were demolished to create parking lots. Squares had been bisected by streets and fire lanes to speed traffic flow. The demolition of the 1870 City Market on Ellis Square and the attempted demolition of the 1821 Davenport House prompted seven Georgia women, led by Davenport descendant Lucy Barrow McIntire, to create the Historic Savannah Foundation, which was able to preserve the city from destruction. In 1979, the Savannah College of Art and Design was founded, and began a process of renovation and adaptive reuse of many notable downtown buildings, rather than building a centralized campus. This effort, along with the work of the Historic Savannah Foundation and other preservation groups, has contributed greatly to Savannah's now-famous rebirth.

The city's popularity as a tourist destination was solidified by the best-selling book and subsequent movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, which were set in Savannah. Also of note is the Pinkie Masters Bar which has been the site of presidential visits and political aspiration. Pinkie Masters (a local political figure) was a friend of President Jimmy Carter, who made several visits to the bar and the city. Additionally, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas was born in nearby Pin Point, Georgia.

The city's location offers visitors access to the coastal islands and the Savannah Riverfront, both popular tourist destinations. Tybee Island, formerly known as "Savannah Beach", is the site of the Tybee Island Light Station, the first lighthouse on the southern Atlantic coast.

Savannah is the perfect place to participate in one of Savannah's more than 200 awesome festivals a year, enjoy a local sporting event or plan your dream wedding. There's always something fun and exciting to do in beautiful Savannah! Our city boasts everything from tours of historic homes to diverse cultural festivals and high impact sporting events to gorgeous weddings in a square. Savannah's beautiful, natural setting and mild year-round temperatures make outdoor events an experience you won't forget! Let Savannah make your next event memorable.

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