Exploring Savannah’s Plant Riverside District

Savannah’s new Plant Riverside District is located steps away. Stroll down the cobblestone streets and check out local shopping, restaurants, bars and more.

A bibliophile’s dream come true, Books on Bay sells vintage and rare books dating back to the 1600s. Its collection of thousands of books spans four centuries, from Nancy Drew to early Revolutionary America biographies.

Ladies in need of a new outfit for a night out in Savannah can peruse local designers at RMC Boutique. It’s a family-owned operation with profusely feminine decor: pink floral displays, a taffy-colored vanity. Sip free bubbles or infused waters while you try on stylish, Southern-inspired clothing.

Alida Harper Fowlkes, our namesake, was born in 1908, she was an entrepreneurial Savannah woman who worked tirelessly to preserve the city’s architecture and promote commerce and culture in the 20th-century South. Tour her mansion full of beautiful antiques with a stunning garden and much more!

Since the 1700s, Savannahians have converged at this open-air market to shop, mingle and enjoy live music. There are a handful of places to eat and drink, but come here for the local art galleries and niche shops (cigars, souvenirs, beads and baked goods).

You’ll need a password to enter this speakeasy-style lounge on an alleyway off River Street. Once through the wooden door, you’ll find a dimly-lit space with a distinct 1920s vibe. Locals gather at the handsome mahogany bar for stiff cocktails made by expert mixologists—in period costume, of course. Swing by on select nights to enjoy a burlesque show as well. Pro tip: Ask The Alida concierge for help getting into this exclusive hotspot.

Visit this local brewery founded by local husband and wife team Kevin Ryan and Meredith Sutton. Their mission is not only to make great craft beer but to donate a portion of our revenue to charities that support service men and women and first responders. Closed Sunday-Tuesday, so get your sipping done later in the week.

This bar and restaurant is a great late-night hangout, with a whimsical food menu—who knew PB&J chicken wings would be so good?—local brews and standout cocktails served in its outdoor patio. Order the Georgia Mule, a local variation of the Moscow classic that swaps in peach bitters and bourbon.

For a New Orleans-take on traditional Southern fare, head to Huey’s, which overlooks the river and lamp-lit cobblestone street, and crawfish etouffee, gumbo, and fried oyster po’boys, along with pillowy beignets blanketed in powdered sugar.