10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Savannah

As night falls in Savannah, Georgia, the city’s historic beauty transforms into a lively nightlife scene, offering plenty of exciting activities. After dinner, there are many ways to enjoy the evening: stroll along River Street (famous for its boutique shops, lively bars, and riverside vantage), explore the city’s live-music venues, or join a ghost walk through the city’s old alleys. No matter your preference, Savannah’s after-hours scene has something for everyone. If you're unsure where to start, follow this guide covering the most popular Savannah nightlife activities.

Though Savannah is peaceful and charming during the day, at night a different side emerges. Known as one of America’s most haunted cities, it offers many ghostly tales and spooky myths. Whether you’re a ghost-tour enthusiast or simply curious, joining a ghost tour is a fun way to spend your evening. With its years of history, elegant old mansions, and lamplit streets, the city provides a perfect atmosphere for these experiences. There are many types of tours—including midnight walks, haunted pub crawls, or ghost trolley rides—so choose according to your interest and experience Savannah’s supernatural side.

For history lovers, the beautiful OwensThomas House is a 19th-century architectural treasure that offers a glimpse into Savannah’s rich past. Inside, you’ll find carefully preserved rooms and artifacts that show life in a bygone era—including the Slave Quarters, which serve as a powerful reminder of the city’s complex social history. Outside, the Parterre Garden provides a peaceful atmosphere and elegant statues, making it a lovely evening destination.

Located in charming Chippewa Square, the Savannah Theatre is one of America’s oldest continuously operating theatres. This historic building has retained much of its old-world charm. At night, enjoy live performances—plays, musicals, comedians, and singers. Though the theatre has endured many challenges (including fires), its red curtain and art-deco-style marquee still reflect its timeless beauty.

If you prefer something calm and serene, head to Forsyth Park—one of Savannah’s most peaceful spots. It offers a perfect backdrop for a quiet evening stroll. The park’s famous fountain is surrounded by centuries-old oaks draped in Spanish moss, which look magical in the glow of moonlight. Don’t miss the Fragrant Garden near the playground—a sensory garden designed for visitors with visual impairments, offering a unique and aromatic experience at night.

In the mood for laughter? Check out Front Porch Improv—a cozy performance venue off West Victory Drive that features Savannah’s best improv comedians every weekend. Every show is unique, so you never know what will happen next. Arrive early, as seating fills up fast. If you’re driving, free street parking is available nearby on Barnard and Jefferson Streets.

Stroll along River Street and sample Savannah’s delicious Southern treats. This riverside walk is lined with boutiques and restaurants—perfect for dessert after dinner. Try local favorites like peach cobbler, pralines, and shrimp & grits. And don’t miss the peaches—Georgia’s signature fruit—which appear in many desserts, from cookies to cobblers.

Looking for something hidden and unique? Mata Hari’s is a famed speakeasy tucked away down an alley off River Street. The large wooden door at the base of a staircase gives little away; you’ll typically need to ask your hotel concierge (or another local source) for that night’s password to gain entry. Once inside, you’ll find elegant décor, live cabaret and burlesque performances, and creative craft cocktails—absinthe-based drinks included.

Dating back to the 1750s, Colonial Park Cemetery is one of the oldest and most mysterious spots in Savannah. Many of the city’s earliest settlers rest here, and the moss-covered trees and centuries-old gravestones create an evocative setting. Look out for crypts marked with odd symbols or inscriptions, some of which are associated with Savannah’s most mysterious figures.

Stretching along the river just north of the Historic District, River Street is one of Savannah’s most vibrant nightlife areas. Its cobblestone streets and red-brick buildings are home to dozens of restaurants, pubs, and clubs, making it the heart of the city’s after-dinner scene. It’s also a great place to enjoy a drink with stunning river views. Thanks to Savannah’s open-container policy, you can take your beverage to-go—provided it’s in a plastic or aluminum cup (16 oz or less)—and stroll through the Historic District, including the River Street area. This makes for a relaxed and authentic Savannah experience, perfect for an evening by the water.

One of the more educational and interactive ways to end your evening is with a cocktail-making class at the American Prohibition Museum. Learn to mix authentic 1920s-style drinks using traditional ingredients and techniques. The class also explores the social and cultural role of cocktails during the Prohibition era—showing how they became icons of creativity and rebellion during a time of strict restrictions.

Book your escape to Savannah’s hospitality at the Garden Hotel – reserve your stay today and start planning the memories.