Southern Charm and Timeless Stories: Exploring Savannah and Charleston in April 2025
Our spring getaway in April 2025 took us to two of the South’s most charming and historic cities: Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina. With the azaleas in bloom and the weather just right, we couldn’t have picked a better time to explore cobblestone streets, hidden gardens, and centuries-old stories.
Savannah Walking Tour & the Cathedral Basilica
We began our trip with a walking tour through Savannah’s historic district. The city’s layout, filled with shady squares and preserved architecture, made for a beautiful introduction. Along the way, we made a quick but unforgettable stop at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist. With its towering spires and intricate stained glass, it’s a true gem—even if you only have a few minutes to admire it.
A Bench with a Story: Forrest Gump’s Filming Location
No visit to Savannah is complete without a little movie magic. We paused at Chippewa Square, the filming location of the iconic bench scenes from Forrest Gump. The actual bench now lives in a museum, but standing where those famous lines were delivered gave us all the nostalgic feels.
Colonial Park Cemetery & Bonaventure Cemetery
We continued exploring Savannah’s layered past at Colonial Park Cemetery, where we learned about the city’s early residents and its role in the Revolutionary War. Later, we visited the hauntingly beautiful Bonaventure Cemetery, famous for its Spanish moss, ornate monuments, and notable figures like Johnny Mercer and Gracie Watson, whose life-sized statue still draws visitors.
Owens-Thomas House: A Walk Through History
One of the most powerful stops on our trip was the Owens-Thomas House. Touring the elegant mansion and preserved slave quarters gave us a deeper understanding of Savannah’s complex history. The museum doesn’t shy away from telling the full story—one that’s both beautiful and painful.
Boat Tour of the Port of Savannah
Switching gears, we took a boat tour of the Port of Savannah—one of the busiest in the nation. Watching massive cargo ships glide down the river offered a striking contrast to the slower pace of the historic district and showed how the city continues to thrive in the modern era.
Day Trip to Cypress Gardens & Charleston, SC
On our last day of the trip, we headed to South Carolina for a day filled with stunning scenery and rich history. First stop: Cypress Gardens. We took a peaceful self-guided boat tour through its reflective blackwater swamp (yes, where The Notebook was filmed!). It was magical—and yes, we saw a few alligators sunning themselves just off our path.
Later that afternoon, we explored Charleston on foot. A guided walking tour led us through the city's hidden alleyways, where we learned about its impressive historic preservation efforts. From earthquake bolts to original brickwork, Charleston’s dedication to preserving its past was evident around every corner.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to Savannah and Charleston in April 2025 was the perfect way to experience the beauty, history, and culture of the South. With spring in full bloom, each stop felt like walking through a living storybook. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or just looking for a scenic escape, these two cities offer an unforgettable journey into the heart of the South.
Here are some snapshots from our trip.
