How to Spend Thanksgiving in Savannah and on Tybee Island

Between all the planning, prepping, and travel, we often become too busy to enjoy the holidays. Whether you’re looking for a low-key getaway, or gearing up for a family extravaganza, here are our top suggestions on spending Thanksgiving in Savannah.

To Cook or Not to Cook?

To cook the perfect Thanksgiving dinner, you need the ideal kitchen. Okay, maybe that’s a stretch. You only need enough space to get it done, the right ingredients, and the patience to put it all together. A great kitchen and dining room don’t hurt at The Mint Julep Estate or The General Lachlan McIntosh House

The Grey: Chef Mashama Bailey, co-owner of The Grey, is renowned for her Southern cuisine. While specific Thanksgiving recipes may not be publicly available, explore her Cornbread Dressing Recipe.

Here is a link to other Lucky Savannah large vacation home options to celebrate with friends and family. 

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For Thanksgiving dinner in Savannah and Tybee Island, you have some great options to consider!

Savannah

1. Savannah Riverboat Cruises offers a Thanksgiving dinner cruise with a Southern buffet, live entertainment, and beautiful river views. They have two sailings on November 28, from 12:30-2:30 p.m. and 5-7 p.m., making for a unique holiday experience​.
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2. The Olde Pink House in Savannah’s historic district will serve a gourmet Thanksgiving menu with classic Southern dishes. Its cozy atmosphere is ideal for families.
   
   
3. The Lady & Sons (Paula Deen’s restaurant) serves a traditional Thanksgiving spread with roast turkey, ham, and a variety of sides and desserts. It is known for its homestyle, comforting flavors.
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4. Chart House will feature a three-course Thanksgiving menu, including lobster bisque, turkey, and indulgent desserts.
   
   
5. Aqua Star at the Westin Savannah Harbor offers a special Low Country Thanksgiving buffet with traditional favorites, complete with a carving station.

Take a Short Trip to Tybee Island

1. The Rock House Bar & Grill will be open all day on Thanksgiving, serving its regular menu—a more casual option if you want to celebrate at the beach.
   
   
2. Salt Island Fish & Beer on Tybee Island will serve a traditional Thanksgiving turkey dinner in a relaxed, beachside setting from 3 to 9 p.m.​

These options provide a mix of formal dining experiences and more laid-back beachside meals so that you can find the perfect spot for your holiday celebration in Savannah or Tybee Island!

Holiday Lights & Shopping

Black Friday may be known as the shopping day of the year, but around here, we’re all about Small Business Saturday. Head downtown on Saturday for brunch and hit the pavement for the best deals on local art, jewelry, clothing, and more. We love to support our unique local businesses, but if you are itching for the big brands, the nearby town of Pooler, about 16 miles (or 25 minutes) away from downtown Savannah, has Tanger Outlets, where you can find some deals.

Head to Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens for a self-guided walk through several differently-themed gardens. With more than 6 acres of historic farm buildings, parks and over 800,000 twinkling lights, you’ll want to explore the grounds. Stop at Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen for a hot drink and sweets from local 4-H and other non-profits. All proceeds benefit their various programs.

The Saturday following Thanksgiving offers the Forsyth Farmer's Market in beautiful Forsyth Park, where you can find seasonal food items (the market doesn't host vendors of non-food goods).

Published on Monday, November 4, 2024