Exploring Savannah in the Fall: Quaint Squares, Riverwalk Charm, and Sink Your Teeth Into Pub Favorites

As summer’s swelter fades, Savannah emerges as a breathtaking autumn retreat, brimming with character. The historic squares come alive with vibrant fall colors, inviting you to wander through their picturesque paths. The Riverwalk, with its stunning river views, beckons for leisurely exploration, while Fort Pulaski offers ghostly tales and a taste of history. Whether you’re a Savannah local or a visitor, this season offers a rich tapestry of experiences just waiting to be discovered—especially when it comes to the culinary gems that make this city such a soulful destination.

We have had the pleasure of visiting ourselves — a weekend visit as our soon-to-be college student explored SCAD. Savannah College of Art and Design is woven right into the city’s fabric, and it’s impossible not to feel inspired walking through its creative energy. The SCAD Museum of Art is a must-see — a blend of modern design and historic architecture that reflects Savannah’s ability to honor its past while embracing innovation. The restored buildings scattered across the city, many now filled with galleries, classrooms, and design studios, are a testament to how art truly lives and breathes here.

A vibrant view of River Street in Savannah, Georgia, featuring historic buildings adorned with colorful awnings and lights, set against a picturesque cobblestone path lined with lampposts.

The Allure of Savannah's Quaint Squares

Savannah is famous for its charming squares, each one a little pocket of history wrapped in Spanish moss. As you wander beneath the towering oaks, there’s a sense of calm and timelessness that feels uniquely Savannah.

In the fall, the transformation is stunning. The leaves shift to deep amber and gold, and Forsyth Park becomes the centerpiece of color. The park’s fountain glimmers against the autumn hues, and its winding paths seem to whisper stories of the city’s past. With over 30 acres of gardens and more than 30 varieties of blooming plants, it’s easy to see why this spot remains a favorite for both locals and travelers seeking beauty and stillness.

Strolling Along the Adorable Riverwalk

No visit to Savannah is complete without a walk along the Riverwalk, located adjacent to Historic River Street. This cobblestone-lined stretch is alive with shops, galleries, and waterfront eateries, all buzzing with music and laughter. The fall weather makes it the perfect season to linger — perhaps with a coffee in hand or a glass of wine as you watch boats drift lazily down the Savannah River.

Each corner of the Riverwalk feels like a scene from a painting: lanterns flickering as the sun dips low, the scent of pralines wafting from candy shops, and the rhythmic hum of conversation spilling from patios overlooking the water. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, take it all in, and feel the heartbeat of Savannah.

Ghostly Tales at Fort Pulaski

Just beyond downtown lies Fort Pulaski — a landmark steeped in history and mystery. As the fog rolls in off the river, the fort takes on an ethereal quality, blending the eerie with the beautiful. Visitors often share tales of ghostly figures wandering the halls, said to be echoes from its Civil War past. More than 150,000 people visit each year, drawn by the fort’s haunting allure and the juxtaposition of its military history against the serenity of the surrounding marshlands.

Exploring Fort Pulaski on a crisp fall day feels like stepping back in time — the echo of footsteps on brick, the cool salt air, and the stillness that settles just before dusk.

Fog Enshrouded Fort Pulaski

A Local Favorite: Warehouse Pub & Grub

After a day of exploring, few things satisfy like an evening at Warehouse Pub & Grub. This laid-back local hangout captures the casual charm Savannah is known for. From hearty burgers to crispy wings, every dish feels comforting and familiar — perfect for ending a day filled with wandering.

What truly sets Warehouse Pub & Grub apart is its impressive selection of ice-cold beers, ideal for unwinding after a day of adventure. The friendly staff enhances the overall experience, making it a welcoming spot to relax, share stories, and enjoy a meal. Whether you're craving a quick snack or a sit-down dinner, this pub is sure to hit the spot.

But one local favorite stood out above the rest: Low Country Shrimp & Grits. Now, I’ll be the first to admit — I’ve never been much of a fan of grits. They’ve always felt a little plain to me, something I’d politely pass on. But this version completely changed my mind. Creamy, smoky, rich, and layered with flavor — it was one of those dishes that makes you stop mid-bite and say, “Oh… this is different.”

Maybe it was the setting, maybe it was the company, or maybe it was the glass of chilled Chardonnay that brought everything together — bright and buttery in all the right ways. Whatever it was, that pairing turned the moment into something unexpectedly memorable. I couldn’t wait to try recreating it at home.

So, inspired by that meal, here’s my take on Low Country Shrimp & Grits — the dish that finally converted me.

Low Country Shrimp & Grits

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 15 Minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Grits:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits

• 4 cups chicken broth (or half broth, half water)

• 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• Salt and pepper to taste

  
  

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon cayenne (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

  
  

Instructions

1. Bring broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in grits, reduce heat, and simmer 20–25 minutes until thick and creamy. Stir often, then add butter and cheddar. Season to taste.

2. In a skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon, keeping about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the pan.

3. Add onion and bell pepper; cook 3–4 minutes until tender. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

4. Deglaze with chicken broth and lemon juice, then add smoked paprika and cayenne. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.

5. Return bacon to the pan, add shrimp, and cook until pink — about 2–3 minutes per side.

6. Spoon grits into bowls, top with shrimp mixture, and garnish with parsley and a squeeze of lemon.

   
   

Savannah-style shrimp and grits with bacon, peppers, and creamy cheddar grits, garnished with parsley.

Wine Pairings That Changed My Mind About Grits

Savannah’s coastal cuisine pairs beautifully with wines that balance richness and freshness. For shrimp and grits, the right wine can make the dish come alive — and maybe even convert a skeptic like me.

The glass of chilled Chardonnay I enjoyed that evening might have been the reason I loved the dish so much. The wine’s smooth, buttery notes complemented the creamy grits perfectly, while its bright acidity cut through the richness of the shrimp and bacon. It transformed something I never thought I’d enjoy into a pairing I now can’t wait to repeat.

If you’re recreating this at home, try one of these:

• Unoaked Chardonnay – A soft, balanced choice that highlights the shrimp’s sweetness and adds just enough brightness to the dish.

• Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp and citrus-driven, it keeps each bite light and refreshing.

• Rosé of Grenache – Delicate yet vibrant, it bridges the spice and cream with effortless charm — perfect for late afternoons or porch dinners.

Savoring the Season in Savannah

Exploring Savannah in the fall is a sensory experience — the rustle of leaves beneath your feet, the scent of salt and oak mingling in the air, the warmth of good food shared with great company. From the golden glow of Forsyth Park to the ghostly echoes of Fort Pulaski, the creativity infused throughout SCAD’s art-filled streets, and the laughter that drifts along the Riverwalk, the city invites you to slow down and savor every moment.

And when evening comes, and the city lights shimmer over the water, pour a glass of wine and serve up a bowl of Shrimp & Grits. It’s the taste of Savannah — comforting, soulful, and every bit as captivating as the city itself.

So as the season turns and the air cools, take time to explore, unwind, and savor. Because in Savannah, every story, every bite, and every sip is worth remembering.