When we published 100 Things to Do in Charleston Before You Die with Reedy Press back in 2018, as part of their bestselling “100 Things” series, we had no idea what a big hit it would be in the Lowcountry and beyond. Its success led to Reedy Press asking us to write 100 Things to Do in Savannah Before You Die, which was officially released on March 1st.
Here are excerpts from 10 of our favorite (and tastiest) entries (with 35 of the 100 being in the “Food & Drink” category for good reason):
Go Green on St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah (#40): Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celebration has long been known as one of the top St. Patrick’s Day celebrations outside of Ireland, making it easy to go green on St. Patrick’s Day in Savannah.
Eat Local at Husk (#20): With ever-popular sister outposts in Charleston, Greenville, and Nashville, Husk Savannah pays homage to the indigenous ingredients and heirloom products of coastal Georgia. Located in the heart of the historic district, the Southern-inspired menu highlights local and regional ingredients and farmers and changes daily according to seasonality and availability.
“See 3” with the Coastal Heritage Society (#66): Founded in 1975 to provide educational experiences for the public through the preservation and presentation of historical resources in coastal Georgia and adjacent regions, the Coastal Heritage Society manages six unique museums throughout the Savannah area.
Get Thee to The Grey (#4): The Grey’s refurbished 1938 art deco Greyhound bus terminal setting—diner car included—and their vintage take on updated “Southern eats” give a whole new meaning to retro. Opened in 2014, chef/partner and James Beard “Best Chef Southeast” award winner Mashama Bailey and hospitable front-of-the-house founding partner Johno Morisano bring local fare and friendly flair to Savannah’s burgeoning dining scene.
Get Lucky at Leopold’s Ice Cream (#13): With lines occasionally down the block, people flock to this throwback ice cream parlor that celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2019. Founded by three brothers from Greece and now run by descendants of that original family, the legendary handcrafted ice cream is served in two dozen classic flavors.
Do Date Night Right at 700 Drayton (#15): What better way to celebrate date night than with a romantic table for two at 700 Drayton in The Kessler Collection’s Mansion on Forsyth Park. The stunning ambiance is filled with world-class artwork, fireplaces, and original wood flooring and trim in a historic 1888 mansion overlooking the park.
Eat with Wild Abandon at The Wyld (#7): Overlooking a bucolic tidal creek less than 20 minutes from downtown, The Wyld is a world away—and worth the drive. The waterside dock bar and restaurant offers stunning views of the marshland, bocce, a fire pit, and seafood-focused monthly menus.
Take a Trolley Tour (#88): First-timers, veteran visitors, and even locals love taking trolley tours with well-respected companies like Old Savannah Tours and Old Town Trolley Tours, which both offer a wide variety of options.
Catch a Film (and More) at Historic Lucas Theatre (#44): Originally opened on December 26, 1921, and completely renovated before reopening in late 2000 to rave reviews, Lucas Theatre for the Arts features varied films, concerts, and other events, including several series throughout the year. It’s now operated by the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and many of SCAD’s offerings throughout Savannah are featured in the book.
Take a Bite out of Savannah at the Savannah Food & Wine Festival (#1): One of the tastiest and most efficient ways to take a bite out of the Savannah food and drink scene is the seven-day Savannah Food & Wine Festival in early November. Exuding Southern taste and hospitality and Savannah style, the popular festival is a week-long food and beverage extravaganza.
10 BRAND-NEW ENTRIES IN THE 2NDEDITION OF
100 Things to Do in Charleston Before You Die
- See & Be Seen at Hotel Bennett (#9)
- Have a Mac Attack at The Macintosh (#12)
- Be a Part of the Bitty & Beau’s Story (#13)
- Dig into Tuesday’s Fried Chicken Night at Virginia’s on King (#14)
- Eat at FIG (#20)
- Head to Hutson Alley to Eat, Drink, & Be Very Merry (#30)
- Make a Candle for Entertaining at Candlefish (#34)
- Rent a Historic CCC-Built Cabin at Edisto Beach State Park (#55)
- Learn Local Lore at Wild Dunes Resort (#85)
- Shop ’til You Drop at the PSC Shop (#93)
Learn more about Beaufort residents Cele and Lynn Seldon’s books and other travel writing at www.seldonink.com.
