About
A visit to Savannah isn't complete without exploring the charm and beauty of Forsyth Park. This vibrant 30-acre greenway is neighbors with centuries-old mansions and moss-covered oaks, making for a magical experience.
William Brown Hodgson established Forsyth Park in the 1840s as a public gathering space. Over the years, it has become an iconic Southern landmark, inviting visitors to explore its timeless pathways and soak up a bygone era. It is named after Georgia's 33rd governor, John Forsyth, who served from November 7, 1827, to November 4, 1829, and was a staunch supporter of Andrew Jackson.
The park's most popular feature is the Forsyth Fountain, which was added in 1858. Its elegant design resembles fountains in Paris, showcasing Savannah's European influences. The iconic fountain is perfect for family pictures and selfies, while professional photographers love to capture its stunning beauty.
Over the years, Forsyth Park has hosted concerts and festivals, shaping it into the cultural hub it is today. Music examples are the Savannah Jazz Festival and Phil the Park with the Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra. The Forsyth Farmers Market connects visitors with farm-fresh food and homemade goods. The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) hosts film screenings and art festivals at the park, adding more allure to the iconic greenspace.
While Forsyth Park is a springboard into the city's top attractions and landmarks, it's worth exploring on its own. So, grab your coffee or water bottle, take a stroll on its paths, and connect with its history.
Forsyth Park: Fun Facts & Cool Features
The 150-year-old fountain mentioned above is the park's most popular attraction. John Howard based the design on the work of the French sculptor Michel Lienard. But it was built in New York, not France. And it wasn't commissioned but ordered from a catalog. In fact, other cities were so inspired by Savannah's fountain that they ordered one, too. You'll find these in Poughkeepsie, New York; Madison, Indiana; and Cuzco, Peru.
Another fun fact about the fountain is that the water runs green every St. Patrick's Day. It's an annual event that adds color to Savannah's vibrant vibe.
The park also features an impressive Fragrant Garden, initially designed for visually impaired visitors. Filled with aromatic plants and braille tags, it's a sensory delight that invites everyone to experience nature in a unique way.
For architecture and history enthusiasts, the Mercer Williams House Museum is nearby. The design features Renaissance Revival elements and Greek and Italianate influences. The home was also the scene of an alleged murder in 1981 that has been turned into a nonfiction novel and movie, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
After exploring the park and nearby landmarks, you're never far from a good meal and cold drinks. The Collins Quarter is in Forsyth Park and serves breakfast and lunch with plenty of outside seating. Only a few blocks away is Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room, featuring stick-to-your-ribs Southern fare served family-style.
What makes Forsyth Park popular is its ability to cater to everyone. It's your go-to for a relaxed picnic, Saturday Farmers Market, concerts, and quiet strolls. No matter how you spend your time here, it will make its mark on your vacation to Savannah.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Savannah to Forsyth Park:
- Begin on Bull Street and head south.
- Continue past Savannah's iconic squares, including Chippewa and Madison squares.
- The park is located just after Monterey Square.
- Address: 2 W Gaston St, Savannah, GA 31401.
Local Tips
- Arrive early on weekends to find parking close to the park.
- Bring a picnic blanket for lounging on the grassy areas.
- Check the city's website for concert schedules.
- Wear comfortable shoes to enjoy sightseeing at the park.
