41Today Staycation Nation: Savannah

SAVANNAH, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Savannah is the perfect destination for a getaway from a large urban area, but even with a laid back feel there is a lot to explore.

General Manager Charlie Brazil with Old Town Trolley Tours in Savannah says the port city is known for its historic charm and natural environment.

“If at anytime in your life you feel that you’re surrounded by concrete and the urban environment, this is a great opportunity to sit and enjoy the serenity that Savannah’s green space brings.”

Year round, the trolley company takes thousands of visitors to 15 must see historic and entertaining locations.

“The great thing is you don’t have to worry about parking or directions or anything,” Brazil say, “You just hop off, explore what you want and do a little shopping, maybe stop by the restaurants and get some authentic food.”

There are more than 24 squares, a growing restaurant scene and a river walk-a place that many tourist and locals like to hang out for a perfect view of the Savannah River.

Part of the tour is a visit to the historic Davenport House, which is where Director Jamie Credle spends a lot of time touring guests.

“The Davenport House is one of the earliest houses that you will see in Savannah, because before that time most of the houses were made out of wood, and they either burned down or rotted.”

The home built by Isaiah Davenport was used to grow his family.

“But our real claim to fame is in the 1950’s when Savannah was a wreck and we weren’t taking care of our historic buildings. The Davenport House started the organized Preservation Movement,” says Credle.

A group of citizens banned together to keep and preserve the historic homes in Savannah.

“No more tearing down old houses without a fight, so it started with this house,” Credle says, “This is the first effort of historic Savannah Foundation.”

Less than 25 minutes down the road another group is working to restore and preserve a monument native to Savannah.

“Fort Pulaski was built by the United states to protect coastal Georgia, specifically Savannah. It was built after the war of 1812; however, it’s primary use is during the American civil war, when it was taken by the state of Georgia,” says Park Ranger Joel Cadoff.

More than 400,000 visitors tour the Fort Pulaski National Monument each year.

“Whether you’re single, whether you are in your 20’s, your 30’s, your 60’s, your 80’s, you’ve got a family, there’s a little bit of something for everybody in the city along the coast here at Fort Pulaski,” says Cadoff.

This park is more than 5,000 acres. The fort, plus miles of trail, a lighthouse and natural resources, like wetlands, sit between Savannah and Tybee Island.

Many groups come here to get a history lesson.

“In 1862, the first use of rifle canon against a fort, like Fort Pulaski, took place here.”

Rangers say it’s their job to restore, preserve and give visitors a reason to visit their local parks.

“I hope that they have a-if it’s not already there-a new found love, not just for Fort Pulaski, but for their local parks and national parks,” says Cadoff.

Savannah is a city full of history and a growing city with Southern charm.

“I can’t think of a better place to be,” Credle says.

To take a ride on Old Town Trolley Tours call (912) 233-0083.

The Davenport House is located at 324 E State Street in Savannah. To tour the home, call (912) 236-8097.

For visitor’s information for Fort Pulaski, call (912) 786-5787.