Savannah’s Forsyth Park - A Budget Must See
What and Where is Forsyth Park?
Forsyth Park in Savannah, Georgia is one of my favorite places in the entire city. It’s a location I return to at least once every time I come to Savannah.
Forsyth Park is a 30-acre green space located downtown just below the North Historic District where Savannah’s famous and beautiful squares are located.
The park was named after Georgia’s 33rd governor.
The park has become a place to play and relax for visitors and residents of Savannah. It also surrounds one of Savannah’s most recognizable landmarks.
What is There to do at Forsyth Park?
Forsyth is a natural sanctuary in the heart of a man-made city. It’s a place for relaxation and stress relief after long work days and college exams.
Enjoy the Green
The best thing about Forsyth Park is that it’s green! The south of the park is consumed by two large open grass fields where people sunbath, do yoga, and play soccer. They are the perfect spot to read or relax during lunch break in the sun.
The northern half of the park is mostly covered by the overhanging branches of Savannah’s famous live oak trees. In the heat of the summer, the trees offer shelter from the oppressive sun.
Friends eat together on the southern lawns of Forsyth Park in Savannah, Georgia
A soccer match on the western green of Forsyth.
Friends sitting in the shade in the northern part of the park.
If the weather is nice, a picnic on the lawn is a great idea. You can get some sunshine, people watch, and enjoy Savannah all at once.
My wife did this very thing in early May. We stopped by A Taco Affair, which is only a few blocks from Forsyth Park, got tacos and Mexican street corn for carry-out and enjoyed our meal under a tree near the Confederate Monument.
The tacos were fabulous, and I can highly recommend A Taco Affair if you’re looking for a place to eat. It’s a bit pricey but the tacos were excellent. I got the steakhouse, BBQ brisket, and chorizo haze.
A Taco Affair is located at 401 W Hall St, Savannah, GA 31401, just west of Forsyth Park (see map below).
Monument to Confederate Soldiers Who Fought in the Civil War
In the middle of the two southern greens, is one of the largest monuments to confederate soldiers in the USA. Originally known as the “Confederate Monument,” the structure was renamed the “Civil War Memorial” after backlash and protests in the late 2010s.
The Confederate Monument in Forsyth Park in Savannah, Georgia
Dedicated to the Confederate dead, 1861-1865.
The Confederate Monument / Civil War Monument seen from the walkway on the western border of Forsyth Park.
Savannah’s Famous Fountain
North of the Confederate monument is one of Savannah’s most photographed spots, the famous fountain erected in 1858.
The fountain and its surroundings are truly lovely. The walkways leading to the pool are covered by the mossy branches of the live oak trees, and benches surround the fountain, providing a wonderful place to sit and rest. There are often artists selling their wares and musicians playing for pocket change.
The fountain is always well maintained and beautiful any time of year.
This is one “touristy” spot worth visiting!
Recreation and Kid’s Activities
Forsyth Park also has tennis courts (4 I believe) and several basketball courts at its southern end.
In the middle of the park, between the Confederate Monument and the fountain, there are 2 playgrounds for kids and a cafe called Collins Corner.
If you’re looking to burn off some of those extra vacation calories, the park has nice wide walking paths, and it’s become a popular place for runners and walkers to get some exercise.
Is Forsyth Park Worth Visiting on Your Trip to Savannah?
Yes, absolutely!
The park is centrally located, so there is a good chance you’ll already be nearby if you plan to visit the historic district.
It’s also free, which is great! Vacations get expensive quickly and your bank account will welcome a free visit to the park.
Forsyth Park is a nice getaway from the busy city streets and it’s a genuinely beautiful place. I’ve been to Savannah at least 3 time and I’ve made multiple trips to Forsyth Park each time.
