Your Savannah Day Trip at a Glance: Quick Facts for 2025
Short on time? Here’s everything you need to know to start planning your escape from Jacksonville to the heart of the Lowcountry.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Jacksonville | ~140 miles |
| Driving Time | 2 – 2.5 hours (one way) |
| Best Time to Visit in 2025 | March-May & September-November |
| Estimated Day Trip Cost | $100 – $200 per person |
| Top 3 Must-Do Highlights | Forsyth Park, Historic Squares, River Street |
How to Get from Jacksonville to Savannah
Getting to Savannah is a breeze, but choosing the right transportation is key for a successful day trip. While there are a few options, one stands out as the clear winner for flexibility and convenience.
By Car: The Ideal Day Trip Option
The easiest and most recommended way to travel from Jacksonville to Savannah is by car. The drive is a straight shot north on I-95, taking just over two hours without heavy traffic. For a perfect day, aim to leave Jacksonville by 8:00 AM. This gets you into the city with plenty of time to find parking and grab a coffee before the main attractions open.
Parking Pro Tip: Skip the stress of feeding a meter all day. Head directly for a public parking garage like the Whitaker Street Garage or Robinson Garage. You can park for the entire day for about $10-$20 and explore on foot without worry. You can also use the handy ParkSavannah app for metered spots if you find a good one!
Alternative Transport: Train & Bus
While possible, the train and bus are less practical for a tight one-day schedule. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Mode | Travel Time (One Way) | Approx. Cost (Round Trip) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drive | 2 – 2.5 hours | $30-$50 (Gas) | Total flexibility, carry what you want, easy to add stops. | You have to drive and find parking. |
| Train (Amtrak) | ~2.5 hours | $50 – $120 | Relaxing journey, no driving stress. | Inflexible schedule, station is 4 miles from historic district. |
| Bus (Greyhound) | 2.5 – 3 hours | $40 – $80 | Often the cheapest option. | Longest travel time, inconvenient schedules for a day trip. |
For the freedom required to make the most of a single day, driving is by far the superior choice.
Top 5 Things to Do in Savannah on a Day Trip
With only one day, you need to be strategic. This list covers the absolute must-see highlights that give you the perfect taste of Savannah’s enchanting character.
- Hop on a Trolley Tour: This is the #1 best way to start your day. Companies like Old Town Trolley or Old Savannah Tours offer fantastic 90-minute narrated tours that cover the entire historic district. A hop-on, hop-off pass (~$45-$50) lets you see everything and then revisit your favorite spots. Pro Tip: Stay on for one full loop when you first arrive to get your bearings and learn the city’s layout.
- Stroll Through Forsyth Park: As Savannah’s version of Central Park, this 30-acre green space is an oasis. Walk under the magnificent Spanish moss-draped oaks, admire the beautiful gardens, and take the quintessential Savannah photo in front of the iconic white fountain. It’s a peaceful and picturesque escape.
- Explore the Historic Squares: You can’t visit America’s first planned city without getting lost in its famous squares. There are 22 in total, each with its own unique personality, monuments, and gardens. Don’t miss Chippewa Square, where Forrest Gump’s famous bench scenes were filmed (the bench itself is now in the Savannah History Museum), or Madison Square, with its stunning Gothic Revival architecture.
- Walk Along Historic River Street: Step back in time on the bumpy cobblestone streets that run alongside the Savannah River. The historic cotton warehouses have been beautifully converted into art galleries, boutiques, pubs, and restaurants. Watch massive cargo ships glide by, sample a world-famous praline, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Insider Tip: Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes! Those cobblestones are authentic and unforgiving.
- Visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist: Whether you’re religious or not, the breathtaking French Gothic architecture of this cathedral is a must-see. With its soaring spires, intricate stained glass, and peaceful ambiance, it’s a serene spot for quiet reflection. Entry is free, though donations are appreciated.
A Perfect One-Day Savannah Itinerary from Jacksonville
Follow this timeline for a stress-free and action-packed day trip in 2025.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Depart from Jacksonville | Grab a coffee for the road and hit I-95 North. |
| 10:15 AM | Arrive & Park | Park for the day at the Whitaker Street Garage to avoid meter-watching. |
| 10:30 AM | Grab Coffee & a Snack | Head to The Collins Quarter for their famous spiced lavender mocha. |
| 11:00 AM | Trolley Tour | Take the full 90-minute loop to get an overview of the city. |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch in the Historic District | Grab a famous sandwich at Zunzi’s or have a sit-down lunch. |
| 2:00 PM | Explore Squares & Forsyth Park | Walk south from the city center, exploring the squares on your way to the park. |
| 4:00 PM | Discover River Street & City Market | Browse the unique shops and grab a praline sample from a candy kitchen. |
| 6:00 PM | Depart for Jacksonville | Or, if you have the energy, stay for an early dinner at The Olde Pink House. |
Where to Eat in Savannah: Lunch & Sweet Treats
Savannah is a foodie paradise. For a day trip, focus on places that are both delicious and efficient.
For a Quick & Delicious Lunch ($ – $$)
- Zunzi’s: An absolute local legend! Famous for its South African-inspired sandwiches, especially “The Conquistador.” It’s perfect for a quick, flavorful takeout meal to enjoy in one of the squares.
- The Collins Quarter: A vibrant cafe known for its excellent coffee and brunch-style menu. It’s a sit-down spot but is generally efficient, making it a great choice for a quality lunch.
- Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room: This is more than a meal; it’s an experience. Served family-style at large communal tables, it’s the ultimate Southern feast. Be warned: lines can be long, and they are only open from 11 AM to 2 PM, so plan accordingly!
For an Afternoon Pick-Me-Up ($)
- Leopold’s Ice Cream: A Savannah institution since 1919. This old-fashioned ice cream parlor serves up delicious, unique flavors. There’s often a line, but trust us, it is worth the wait.
- Savannah’s Candy Kitchen: You can’t walk down River Street without being tempted by the smell of fresh pralines. Stop in for a free sample and buy a few to take home as the perfect souvenir.
Insider Tips for Your 2025 Day Trip
Make your trip even smoother with these local secrets.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes. This is non-negotiable. You will easily walk several miles between the cobblestones of River Street and the paths of Forsyth Park.
- Book tours in advance, especially if you’re visiting on a weekend or during the busy spring and fall seasons.
- Take advantage of the open-container law. In the Historic District, you can legally walk around with an alcoholic beverage (16 oz or less, in a plastic cup). Grab a “to-go cup” from a local pub!
- Charge your phone! You’ll be using it for maps, photos, and looking up recommendations. A portable charger is your best friend.
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Savannah’s humid subtropical climate can be draining, especially in the summer. Carry a water bottle with you.
Where to Stop Between Jacksonville and Savannah
If you have extra time or want to break up the drive, Georgia’s Golden Isles offer some beautiful detours just off I-95.
Jekyll Island
A slight detour will take you to this protected barrier island. The highlight is Driftwood Beach, an ethereal landscape of ancient, weathered trees on the sand. It’s a photographer’s dream. Note there is an island entry fee of around $8 per vehicle.
St. Simons Island
This is a more developed but equally charming option. Head to the Pier Village to walk along the water, browse the cute shops, or see the iconic St. Simons Lighthouse.
What to Pack for Savannah
Keep it simple and practical for your day of exploring.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes
- Portable Phone Charger
- Sunscreen & Sunglasses
- Reusable Water Bottle
- A Light Jacket or Sweater (for strong A/C or cool evenings)
- Your Camera
Savannah Day Trip Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Here’s a sample budget to help you plan your spending for your 2025 trip.
| Expense Category | Budget Estimate | Mid-Range Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Gas (Round Trip, Split) | $15 | $25 |
| Parking | $10 | $20 |
| Lunch | $15 (Zunzi’s) | $30 (Collins Quarter) |
| Attractions (Trolley Tour) | $0 (Self-guided walk) | $50 |
| Snacks/Souvenirs | $10 | $25 |
| Total per Person | ~$50 | ~$150 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best month to go to Savannah?
The best months to visit Savannah are in the Spring (March-May) when the azaleas are in full bloom and temperatures are pleasant, or in the Fall (September-November) for cooler, less humid weather and fewer crowds.
How many days is enough for Savannah?
While you could easily spend 2-3 days soaking in all of Savannah’s history and culture, a well-planned day trip is absolutely enough time to experience the city’s main highlights, unique charm, and beautiful scenery.
What is the number one thing to do in Savannah, Georgia?
The single best thing to do is simply wander on foot through the historic district and its 22 squares. However, the number one activity for a first-timer or day-tripper is taking a trolley tour to see the most sights and learn the city’s history in the shortest amount of time.
Is a day trip from Jacksonville to Savannah worth it?
Absolutely! In just over two hours, you can transport yourself from the beaches of Florida to one of America’s most beautiful and historic cities. With its stunning architecture, captivating history, and incredible food scene, it is an easy and incredibly rewarding day trip.
TL;DR: The Ultimate Savannah Day Trip in a Nutshell
Too long; didn’t read? Here are the essentials:
- Go by Car: It’s the only way to have the flexibility you need for a day trip. Leave JAX by 8 AM.
- Start with a Trolley Tour: It’s the best way to see the whole city quickly.
- Must-Sees: Forsyth Park’s fountain, Chippewa Square, and the cobblestones of River Street.
- Eat This: Grab a “Conquistador” sandwich from Zunzi’s for lunch and ice cream from Leopold’s for a treat.
- Wear Comfy Shoes: You will be walking a lot. Seriously.
