Savannah has its own rhythm in the summer. Warm nights. Cold drinks. And then there are those sunny afternoons when it’s nice to step indoors to catch the AC. Not all indoor, air-conditioned spaces are equal. So, here’s a few of our favorite places to step in and cool off.
Cool Savannah History Lessons
At the American Prohibition Museum, whisper the password at the door and you can enter the speakeasy. Raise your glass (and your spirits) when the bartender pours you a 1920s-style cocktail. There are exhibits on Southern Rum Runners, the Temperance Movement, Moonshine Making and more.
The Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum depicts an important part of Savannah’s history. With three floors of photographic and interactive exhibits, the museum shows life for African-Americans from slavery to the present.
Just a block west of City Market is the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, which houses an impressive collection of ship models, maritime paintings and artifacts. From Colonial vessels to ironclads and ocean steamers to modern Navy vessels, this museum celebrates Savannah’s sea-faring past. The property also includes the Scarbrough House and Gardens, a Greek revival structure that once served as a public school. It was also the first the home of William Scarbrough, a shipping merchant.
Catch a Show in Savannah
The Historic Savannah Theater produces high-energy musical performances throughout the year. Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. (and some Saturday matinees) are a great way to beat the heat while enjoying a fun show. Through July 26, “The 70’s Show!” is on stage as a cast of singers, dancers and band pay tribute to the music and pop culture of that decade. Their production of “9 to 5” starts Aug. 8. The theater itself dates to 1818 but was renovated to its current art deco style in 1948.
Get Inspired
Visits the Savannah College of Arts and Design (SCAD) Museum of Art, a premier contemporary art museum with new exhibitions every academic quarter by acclaimed artists. Enjoy their inspiration summer exhibitions, as well as scheduled film screenings, lectures, and gallery talks. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Discover the Art of Savannah
Speaking of creativity, discover works by more than two dozen artists at the City Market Art Center, located upstairs. Art by knitters, basket weavers, painters, photographers, and sculptors is on display in the large space. You may even catch an artist at work.
This list is just a drop in the bucket of the many activities that are perfect for an afternoon cool down in Savannah. Come visit and sit a spell with us and learn just what makes summer in Savannah so special.
