12 EPIC Things to Do in Savannah at Night (Ghost Tours & Bars!)

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Savannah might be all proper Southern charm during the day, but at night? This city knows how to party! The best things to do in Savannah at night range from sipping bourbon in secret bars to joining ghost tours that’ll actually give you chills.

The historic district comes alive after dark (pun intended). Spanish moss drips from old oaks lit by gas lamps, rooftop bars buzz with live jazz, and even the squares feel a little magical once the sun sets. Let me show you why Savannah’s nightlife is unlike anywhere else in the South!

• 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend this true crime pub crawl through Savannah’s historic squares! They take you past spooky spots like Colonial Park Cemetery with cocktails in hand, plus access to Oglethorpe Square after dark. You also learn what makes Savannah’s murder mysteries legendary from guides who know the real scandalous stories. This tour is absolutely a must-do on a Savannah itinerary in my opinion.

Best Things to Do in Savannah at Night (2025 Guide)

Looking for fun things to do at night in Savannah? This city transforms after dark – and I’m not just talking about its ghost stories! From spooky cemetery walks to cozy pubs in gorgeous historic squares, there’s a reason Savannah ranks among the most beautiful places in Georgia. Just grab a cocktail and let the city’s mysterious charm work its magic!

1. Bar hop along River Street’s waterfront scene

River Street is where Savannah really comes alive after dark, and honestly, it’s way more fun than most people expect. You’ve got everything from dive bars like Stafford’s Public House (open until 3am on weekends) to rooftop spots like Top Deck Bar at the Cotton Sail Hotel with killer river views.

Wet Willie’s serves up those famous frozen drinks that’ll knock you on your butt, while The Warehouse Bar & Grille keeps things going until 3am most nights with live music and a solid after-midnight menu. I actually love how each bar has its own vibe – you can start classy at Vic’s On The River for dinner, then work your way down to the grittier spots like Dub’s Pub for late-night shenanigans.

Fair warning though: those cobblestones are brutal in heels after a few drinks, and parking is pretty much impossible on weekends. But that’s part of the charm. The energy is infectious, especially when live music spills out onto the street. Most bars stay open past midnight on weekends, some until 3am, so you can really make a night of it.

• Read next: Unique Restaurants in Savannah

2. Take a ghost tour through Bonaventure Cemetery

Ghost tours at Bonaventure Cemetery run almost every night, and they’re actually pretty awesome if you’re into that spooky stuff. Multiple companies offer after-hours tours, with 6th Sense World and Ghost City Tours being the most popular options. Prices run around $25-35 per person, and tours typically last 90 minutes to 2 hours.

I went on Shannon Scott’s after-hours tour last year and it was legitimately creepy – they lock the gates behind you for this exclusive moonlight experience that costs about $45. The regular cemetery hours are 8am to 5pm, but these special night tours take you through sections you can’t normally access after dark.

The cemetery covers 160 acres, so guides know exactly where to take you for the best stories about Little Gracie, Johnny Mercer, and the other “residents.” What’s cool is that different tour companies focus on different aspects – some go heavy on the paranormal stuff, while others stick to actual history and symbolism.

Book ahead because these tours sell out, especially in October. And bring bug spray – the Spanish moss looks magical at night, but mosquitoes are no joke.

3. Dine at The Olde Pink House historic restaurant

The Olde Pink House is one of those places you have to hit at least once when you’re in Savannah, even if it’s touristy as hell. This 18th-century mansion serves upscale Southern food with prices to match – expect to drop $50-100 per person for dinner.

The main dining rooms can get loud and feel a bit stuffy, but here’s the secret: head downstairs to Planters Tavern in the basement. It’s got this cool underground vibe with fireplaces and way better atmosphere. I actually prefer eating down there – same menu, but you feel like you’re in on something special.

Their shrimp and grits are legitimately good (not just tourist trap good), and the fried chicken is crispy perfection. The service is usually on point too, though reservations are basically mandatory. They’re open for dinner Monday through Sunday from 5pm to 10:30pm, with lunch service Tuesday through Saturday.

Is it expensive? Absolutely. Is it worth it for a special night? Yeah, I think so. The building itself is gorgeous, and if you’re celebrating something, this is the kind of place that delivers on atmosphere. Just don’t expect to discover some hidden gem – everyone knows about this place.

4. Walk through Forsyth Park after dark

Forsyth Park at night is actually really beautiful and way more peaceful than during the day. The park officially closes at 9pm, but the fountain area stays lit up and it’s pretty magical. I love walking through here after dinner – the Spanish moss draped over those massive oaks creates these incredible shadows under the streetlights.

The famous fountain isn’t running right now (they’re doing repairs through fall 2025), but honestly, the park is still worth a stroll. The pathways are well-lit and safe, though I’d stick to the main areas after dark.

What’s cool is how different it feels from the daytime chaos – no farmers market crowds, no tour groups, just locals walking their dogs and couples taking romantic walks. The 30-acre park has tons of winding paths, but the central walkway from Gaston Street down to the Civil War monument is the best route at night.

Fair warning: this isn’t really an “activity” so much as a nice way to walk off dinner or connect two other spots. I’ve done this walk dozens of times, and it never gets old. Just bring bug spray in summer – those mosquitoes don’t mess around once the sun goes down.

5. Book a dinner cruise on the Savannah River

Dinner cruises on the Savannah River are cheesy in the best possible way, and I’m not ashamed to say I actually enjoy them. Savannah Riverboat Cruises runs the main operation with their Georgia Queen and Savannah River Queen paddlewheelers, and they do it right.

The 2-hour dinner cruises cost $84-100 per adult depending on the day (Saturday nights are pricier), with kids 5-12 around $45-53. The buffet includes a beef carving station, catch of the day, and their famous Savannah shrimp and grits. It’s not gourmet, but it’s solid comfort food.

What makes it fun is the live entertainment – they’ve got musicians playing everything from classic rock to gospel, depending on which cruise you book. The Monday night Gospel Dinner Cruise is actually incredible if you’re into that.

I’ll be honest: the river views are more industrial than scenic (lots of shipping containers), but once you get past that, it’s genuinely relaxing. The boats are climate-controlled, so weather isn’t an issue. Book ahead because these sell out, especially the weekend dinner cruises. And yeah, there’s a full bar if you need liquid courage for the karaoke.

6. Catch live music at The Jinx

The Jinx is Savannah’s legendary dive music venue, though it’s been closed since 2020 and is working on reopening in a new location in the Starland District. When it does reopen (hopefully sometime in 2025), it’ll be the place to catch local and touring acts across every genre you can think of.

The original Jinx at 127 West Congress was this perfect dive bar with sticky floors, cheap drinks, and some of the best live music in the South for 17 years. Owner Susanne Warnekros got approval for the new space at 43rd and Whitaker, and from what I’ve heard, she’s planning to recreate that same gritty, welcoming vibe that made the original so special.

When it was open, shows typically started around 9pm and could go until 2am or later. Cover charges were usually $5-15 depending on the band. The crowd was this amazing mix of SCAD students, locals, and music nerds who really knew their stuff.

I spent so many nights at the old Jinx, and it was always a good time – even when the band sucked, the energy was infectious. Keep an eye on their Instagram (@thejinx912) for reopening updates, because when they do come back, it’s going to be epic.

7. Explore Savannah City Market’s nighttime scene

City Market comes alive at night with a totally different energy than the daytime shopping scene. The courtyard hosts live music most evenings (weather permitting), and there’s something about sipping a beer while listening to local musicians that just feels perfectly Savannah.

Wexford’s Irish Pub is the heart of the night scene here, with live music and that authentic Irish atmosphere that doesn’t feel forced. Pour Larry’s Bar gets pretty rowdy with DJs and dancing, while The Grove has a solid rooftop scene if you want something more upscale.

I love how walkable everything is – you can bar hop between the different spots without ever leaving the market area. The American Prohibition Museum even does cocktail classes if you want to mix education with your drinking. Most bars stay open until midnight or 1am, with some weekend exceptions.

The market also hosts seasonal events throughout the year – their St. Patrick’s Day celebration is wild, and the holiday lights in December make everything feel magical. Art galleries stay open later during First Friday events too.

Fair warning: it gets packed on weekends, especially during tourist season. But that crowd energy is part of what makes it fun. I’ve made friends just wandering between venues here.

8. Sip craft martinis at Jen’s & Friends

Jen’s & Friends is this tiny martini bar that’s become legendary for having over 300 different martini flavors, and honestly, they’re all pretty creative. Located at 34 Bull Street near Johnson Square, it’s literally a hole-in-the-wall spot where owner Jen McEvoy has been perfecting candy-inspired cocktails since 2005.

The Rice Krispie Treat martini is their best seller, and I get why – it comes with a marshmallow fluff rim and actual cereal pieces. I tried the Birthday Cake one last time I was there, complete with sprinkles and a mini cake as garnish. It’s basically dessert in a glass.

Here’s the thing though: this isn’t your typical martini bar. If you’re expecting a classic dirty martini, you might be disappointed (they don’t even stock blue cheese olives). But if you want something sweet and Instagram-worthy, this is your spot.

The bar itself is tiny – maybe 15 people max – and Jen often works alone, so service can be slow when it’s busy. Martinis run $10-13, which is actually reasonable for the experience. They also do walk-up service if you want to take your drink to-go and explore the squares.

Pro tip: go earlier in the evening before the crowds hit, and definitely try something weird.

9. Watch a show at the Historic Savannah Theatre

The Historic Savannah Theatre on Chippewa Square is one of America’s oldest continuously operating theaters (since 1818), and they put on some seriously entertaining shows. Their main thing is high-energy musical revues with live bands – think crowd-pleasing hits from different eras rather than traditional Broadway.

Shows typically run several times a week at 7:30pm or 8pm, with tickets averaging around $50-60 per person. The theater only seats about 600 people, so there really isn’t a bad seat in the house. I’d recommend rows 4-10 in the middle section if you can swing it.

What’s cool is that they change up their shows seasonally – you might catch a rock and roll revue one month, then a Christmas show in December. The performers are genuinely talented, and the energy is infectious. It’s not high art, but it’s a damn good time.

The theater also does late-night paranormal investigations if you’re into ghost hunting, which is pretty unique. Box office hours are Monday-Tuesday 10am-4pm, Wednesday-Saturday 10am-8pm. Call (912) 233-7764 for current show schedules since they don’t have performances every night.

Fair warning: this is tourist-focused entertainment, but sometimes that’s exactly what you want after a long day of sightseeing.

10. Sample craft beer at Two Tides Brewing Company

If you’re looking for the best craft beer experience in Savannah right now, Two Tides Brewing Company is the move. Located in a restored two-story home in the Victorian District, this brewery oozes charm and creativity. It’s everything Moon River used to be (my previous favorite), but with better beer, a fresher vibe, and no weird tourist gimmicks.

They specialize in hazy IPAs, wild ales, and sours that actually taste balanced. Favorites include Tan Lines (a juicy IPA) and Mild Heat (a jalapeño lime gose that somehow works). The taproom is small but super stylish. Think mid-century couches, retro lighting, and artwork from local creators. It feels like drinking in your cool friend’s loft.

There’s a chill rooftop patio upstairs with string lights and city views, perfect for summer nights. The crowd skews local and in-the-know, and they often collaborate with other regional brewers. Bonus: It’s dog-friendly and just a short walk from Forsyth Park.

11. Paddle through Savannah’s salt marshes under the moonlight

If you’re looking for a completely different kind of night out in Savannah, book a moonlit kayak tour through the salt marshes. It’s peaceful, a little eerie in the best way, and absolutely stunning once the sky goes dark.

Savannah Canoe & Kayak and Savannah Coastal Ecotours both run guided evening and full moon tours through spots like Moon River, Little Tybee, and Skidaway Narrows. These aren’t tourist trap paddle loops. You’ll actually get 2.5–3 hours of calm, scenic exploration, gliding past spartina grass and maybe even catching dolphins or owls.

I did one of these last summer and it felt surreal: total silence except for your paddle and the occasional fish jumping. You don’t need to be an athlete, but definitely be comfortable on the water. Everything’s included (kayak, light, gear), and the guides are great at making first-timers feel safe.

Sunset tours typically start around 6:30–7 PM, while full moon trips launch later depending on the tide. Prices are around $70–$85 per person. Just don’t forget bug spray — those marsh mosquitos don’t mess around. Perfect date night or solo reset. Seriously, it’s UNREAL!

12. Grab dessert at Leopold’s Ice Cream

Leopold’s Ice Cream is the perfect way to end a night in Savannah, and I’m not just saying that because it’s famous. This place has been making ice cream since 1919 using the same family recipes, and you can actually taste the difference. I’m an ice cream snob AND I’m from New England, the de facto capital of good ice cream…so my recommendation here says a lot!

Located at 212 East Broughton Street, they’re open until 10pm Sunday-Thursday and 11pm Friday-Saturday. Fair warning: there’s almost always a line, especially on weekend nights, but they move pretty quickly and offer samples while you wait.

The Rum Bisque is their signature flavor and it’s genuinely amazing – rich, boozy, and unlike anything you’ll find at chain ice cream shops. I also love the Honey Almond (made with local Savannah Bee Company honey) and the Savannah Socialite, which has bourbon and chocolate. A single scoop runs about $5-6, double scoop around $7-8. Yeah, it’s pricier than grocery store ice cream, but this is small-batch, super-premium stuff made fresh in the shop. The interior is this cool retro soda fountain setup with movie memorabilia from owner Stratton Leopold’s film career.

Pro tip: they also have locations at the airport if you want to grab some for the road, and they offer pints to-go. This is one of those Savannah traditions that actually lives up to the hype.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Best Things to Do in Savannah at Night:

Looking to further your knowledge on the best things to do in Savannah at night? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about the best nighttime activities in Savannah.

What are the best areas for nightlife in Savannah?

The best areas for nightlife in Savannah include River Street for its lively bars and music, the Historic District for a mix of trendy spots and classic pubs, and City Market for a vibrant atmosphere with live music and diverse dining options.

Is Savannah safe to explore at night?

Savannah is generally safe to explore at night, especially in well-populated areas like River Street and the Historic District. As with any city, it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings and stick to well-lit, busy streets.

Are there any late-night food options in Savannah?

Yes, Savannah offers several late-night food options, especially in the Downtown area. Many restaurants and food joints on River Street and in City Market stay open late, serving everything from quick bites to full meals.

Can you recommend any unique nighttime activities in Savannah?

Unique nighttime activities in Savannah include haunted tours at Bonaventure Cemetery, stargazing at Oatland Island Wildlife Center, and enjoying live performances at the Historic Savannah Theatre. These are some of my favorite hidden gems in Georgia.

What kind of music scene can I expect in Savannah at night?

Savannah’s music scene at night is diverse, featuring everything from live jazz and blues to indie and rock bands. Venues like The Jinx showcase a range of local and visiting talent, offering a lively atmosphere for music lovers.

Is it worth going to Savannah at night?

Absolutely, Savannah at night is a must-experience. The city transforms after dark, offering a blend of historic charm and vibrant nightlife. From strolling along River Street with its lively bars and music to exploring haunted sites or enjoying live performances, there’s a rich variety of activities that showcase Savannah’s unique character and culture, making it well worth the visit.