Chatham County Georgia Map
Chatham County Georgia Map
Located in the heart of Georgia’s coastal region, Chatham County is an idyllic destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. From the historic city of Savannah to the lush forests and pristine beaches, this county has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that Chatham County has to offer.
Top Attractions
Chatham County is home to several top attractions that should not be missed. The most famous of these is undoubtedly the historic district of Savannah, with its charming cobblestone streets, beautiful parks, and historic homes and buildings. Visitors can take a trolley tour of the city, wander through the many museums and galleries, or take a stroll through the city’s many squares.
Another must-see attraction is Tybee Island, located just a short drive from Savannah. This picturesque island is home to beautiful beaches, a historic lighthouse, and plenty of opportunities for water sports like kayaking and fishing.
Hidden Gems
While Savannah and Tybee Island are popular destinations, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover in Chatham County. One such gem is Wormsloe Historic Site, a sprawling estate with beautiful gardens and a stunning oak-lined driveway. Another hidden gem is Bonaventure Cemetery, a hauntingly beautiful cemetery that is home to some of Savannah’s most notable residents.
Food Scene
Chatham County is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, and visitors can find everything from classic barbecue to fresh seafood. Some of the top restaurants in the area include The Grey, which serves up modern Southern cuisine in a restored 1930s Greyhound bus station, and The Wyld Dock Bar, a waterfront restaurant that specializes in fresh seafood.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to Chatham County doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of budget-friendly tips to help you save money on your trip. One such tip is to visit the many free attractions in the area, such as Forsyth Park or the Savannah Historic District. Another tip is to take advantage of happy hour specials at local restaurants and bars, or to visit during the off-season when prices are lower.
Outdoor Adventures
Chatham County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and more. Some of the top outdoor attractions in the area include Skidaway Island State Park, a beautiful park with miles of hiking trails and a scenic boardwalk, and Ossabaw Island, a remote barrier island that is home to pristine beaches and untouched wilderness.
Historical Landmarks
Chatham County is steeped in history, and visitors can explore many historical landmarks throughout the area. One such landmark is Fort Pulaski National Monument, a Civil War-era fort that played a significant role in the war. Visitors can explore the fort’s many exhibits and take a ranger-led tour to learn more about its history.
Family-Friendly Activities
Chatham County is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. Some of the top family-friendly activities in the area include the Savannah Children’s Museum, a hands-on museum with plenty of interactive exhibits, and the Tybee Island Marine Science Center, which offers educational programs and exhibits about the coastal environment.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little more off-the-beaten-path, Chatham County has plenty of unique experiences to offer. One such experience is a visit to the Pin Point Heritage Museum, which is dedicated to the Gullah/Geechee culture of the area. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is a visit to the Ogeechee River, where visitors can explore the river by kayak or canoe.
Natural Wonders
Chatham County is home to several natural wonders that are worth exploring. One such wonder is the Skidaway Island Salt Marsh, which is home to a diverse array of wildlife and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Another natural wonder is Wassaw Island, a remote barrier island that is home to pristine beaches, dunes, and maritime forests.
Vibrant Nightlife
Chatham County is not just a destination for history and nature lovers – it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. Some of the top nightlife spots in the area include The Jinx, a popular music venue that hosts concerts and events throughout the week, and The Rail Pub, a cozy bar with a great selection of craft beers and live music.
Local Markets
For those who love to shop local, Chatham County has plenty of markets to explore. One such market is the Forsyth Farmers’ Market, which is held every Saturday and features local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Another market to check out is the City Market, a historic market in the heart of Savannah that is home to shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Beaches and Mountains
Chatham County is unique in that it offers both beautiful beaches and stunning mountains. Visitors can explore the beaches of Tybee Island or take a scenic drive through the mountains of Chattahoochee National Forest.
Cultural Immersion
Chatham County is a melting pot of cultures, and visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture through a variety of experiences. One such experience is a visit to the First African Baptist Church, the oldest African American church in North America. Another cultural immersion experience is a visit to the Telfair Museums, which showcase the art and history of the area with a focus on Southern and African American art.
Art and Music Scene
Chatham County has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and venues to explore. Some of the top spots to check out include the SCAD Museum of Art, which features contemporary art from around the world, and The Lucas Theatre for the Arts, a historic theater that hosts concerts, plays, and other performances throughout the year.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Chatham County is on foot, and there are plenty of walking tours to choose from. Some of the top walking tours in the area include the Savannah Stroll, a guided walking tour that takes visitors through the city’s historic district, and the Bonaventure Cemetery Tour, a guided tour of one of Savannah’s most beautiful and historic cemeteries.
Architectural Marvels
Chatham County is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in the country, with buildings that range from classic Southern mansions to modern design. Some of the top architectural marvels in the area include the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, a stunning Gothic Revival church in the heart of Savannah, and the Mercer Williams House Museum, a restored mansion that was once home to songwriter Johnny Mercer.
Historical Sites
Chatham County is rich in history, and there are several historical sites throughout the area that are worth visiting. Some of the top historical sites in the area include the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, the childhood home of the founder of the Girl Scouts, and the Old Fort Jackson Historic Site, a restored fort that played a significant role in the Civil War.
Biking Routes
For those who love to bike, Chatham County has plenty of scenic routes to explore. Some of the top biking routes in the area include the Skidaway Island State Park Trail, a 6-mile trail that takes visitors through the park’s beautiful forests and salt marshes, and the Savannah Riverfront Trail, a 2-mile trail that offers stunning views of the Savannah River.
Wellness Retreats
Chatham County is a great destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. There are several wellness retreats throughout the area that offer everything from yoga classes to spa treatments. One such retreat is the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District, which offers a luxurious spa and wellness center in the heart of Savannah.
Adventure Sports
For those who love adventure, Chatham County has plenty of opportunities for outdoor sports and activities. Some of the top adventure sports in the area include kayaking through the salt marshes, zip-lining through the trees at The Club at Savannah Harbor, and deep-sea fishing off the coast of Tybee Island.
Chatham County truly has something for everyone, whether you’re seeking history, culture, nature, or adventure. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that this county is a top destination for travelers from around the world.