Christmas Day in Savannah, Georgia, offers a unique blend of Southern charm and festive spirit. While many businesses close to allow employees to spend the holiday with loved ones, there are still plenty of options for those looking to dine out, enjoy a bit of sightseeing, or simply soak in the city’s atmosphere. Navigating what’s open requires a bit of planning, but this guide will help you discover the best of Savannah on December 25th.
Dining Options on Christmas Day
Finding a delicious meal is a top priority for many on Christmas Day. Fortunately, several Savannah restaurants cater to holiday diners, offering everything from traditional Christmas feasts to Southern comfort food. Remember to make reservations well in advance, as these spots tend to fill up quickly.
Hotel Restaurants: A Reliable Choice
Hotel restaurants are often a dependable option for Christmas Day dining. They tend to remain open to serve guests and usually offer special holiday menus. The DeSoto Savannah’s Edgar’s Proof & Provision, for example, often has festive options. Similarly, The Brice, a Kimpton Hotel, might offer a Christmas brunch or dinner at its Pacci Italian Kitchen + Bar. Always check directly with the hotel to confirm hours and menu details.
Southern Comfort and Holiday Feasts
Several restaurants specializing in Southern cuisine stay open for Christmas, providing a taste of Savannah’s culinary heritage. Consider The Olde Pink House Restaurant, known for its elegant atmosphere and refined Southern dishes. While securing a reservation can be challenging, it’s worth the effort for a memorable Christmas meal. Be sure to inquire about their holiday specials.
Other options might include restaurants that typically offer a brunch buffet. While the specific offerings can change each year, keep an eye out for announcements from popular brunch spots closer to the holiday.
International Cuisine: A Different Flavor
If you’re in the mood for something different, some international restaurants might be open. Check with local Asian restaurants; many Chinese and Vietnamese restaurants remain open on Christmas. Indian restaurants are another possibility. These offer a delicious and alternative dining experience. Call ahead to confirm their hours and availability.
Casual Dining and Quick Bites
For a more casual option, consider restaurants that specialize in pizza or sandwiches. While not traditional Christmas fare, they can provide a convenient and satisfying meal, especially if you’re out exploring the city. Many local pubs that serve food may also be open, offering a relaxed atmosphere and a chance to mingle with locals and tourists alike.
Planning Ahead: Essential for Christmas Dining
Advance reservations are crucial for any restaurant you plan to visit on Christmas Day. Start making inquiries weeks in advance to secure your spot. Be prepared to pay a premium for holiday meals, as many restaurants offer special menus with fixed prices. Also, double-check the restaurant’s hours of operation to avoid disappointment.
Attractions and Activities on Christmas Day
Beyond dining, Savannah offers a range of activities and attractions that remain open or accessible on Christmas Day, allowing you to experience the city’s beauty and history.
Exploring Historic Squares and Parks
Savannah’s historic squares are a sight to behold any time of year, but they take on a special charm during the holiday season. Stroll through squares like Chippewa Square (famous from Forrest Gump) or Forsyth Park, and admire the architecture and the festive decorations. These outdoor spaces are always open and free to explore.
River Street: A Festive Waterfront Walk
River Street, with its cobblestone streets and waterfront views, is a popular destination for visitors. While many shops and businesses might be closed on Christmas Day, the street itself remains open, offering a scenic walk along the Savannah River. You can enjoy the views of the Talmadge Bridge and watch the ships pass by. Some restaurants on River Street might also be open.
Holiday Tours: A Unique Perspective
Consider taking a Christmas Day tour of Savannah. Some tour operators offer special holiday-themed tours, providing insights into the city’s history and traditions. These tours might include walking tours, trolley tours, or even carriage rides. Check with local tour companies for availability and booking information.
Worship Services: Reflecting on the Holiday
Many of Savannah’s historic churches hold Christmas Day services. Attending a service can be a meaningful way to celebrate the holiday and experience the city’s spiritual side. Check with local churches for service times and schedules.
Movie Theaters: A Relaxing Escape
If you’re looking for a relaxing activity, consider visiting a movie theater. Many theaters remain open on Christmas Day, offering a chance to catch the latest blockbuster. Check local listings for showtimes and locations.
Savannah’s Natural Beauty: Tybee Island
A short drive from downtown Savannah, Tybee Island offers a beautiful beach and stunning ocean views. While some businesses on the island might be closed, the beach itself is open for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring. It’s a great way to escape the city and enjoy the natural beauty of the Georgia coast.
Things to Consider: Planning Your Day
Check opening hours for all attractions in advance. Websites and social media are helpful, but calling is the best way to confirm holiday schedules. Many attractions adjust their hours or close completely on Christmas Day. Also, consider transportation options, as some public transportation might operate on a limited schedule.
Essential Services Open on Christmas Day
While most businesses close for Christmas, some essential services remain open to cater to residents and visitors.
Pharmacies: Health and Wellness Needs
Certain pharmacies, particularly larger chain stores like Walgreens or CVS, often have limited hours on Christmas Day. This ensures that people can access necessary medications and healthcare supplies. Check the specific hours of the pharmacies closest to you.
Convenience Stores: Last-Minute Essentials
Convenience stores are another reliable option for last-minute needs on Christmas Day. They typically remain open, offering a range of snacks, drinks, and other essential items. Look for national chains like 7-Eleven or local convenience stores.
Gas Stations: Fueling Up
Gas stations generally remain open on Christmas Day, providing fuel for travelers and residents. Check the hours of operation for specific gas stations, as some might have reduced hours.
Emergency Services: Always Available
Emergency services, including hospitals, police, and fire departments, operate as usual on Christmas Day. In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance.
Transportation: Getting Around
Taxi services and ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft generally operate on Christmas Day, providing transportation around the city. However, availability might be limited, and surge pricing might be in effect. Plan accordingly and allow extra time for travel. Savannah also offers limited public transit options but these are often dramatically reduced or non-existent on Christmas. Confirm Christmas Day schedules well in advance.
Tips for Enjoying Savannah on Christmas Day
To make the most of your Christmas Day in Savannah, here are a few helpful tips:
Plan Ahead: The Key to a Stress-Free Holiday
Advance planning is essential for a smooth and enjoyable Christmas Day. Research what’s open, make reservations, and confirm hours of operation. This will help you avoid disappointment and make the most of your time.
Embrace the Holiday Spirit: Enjoy the Atmosphere
Savannah’s historic charm and festive decorations create a magical atmosphere during the holiday season. Take the time to soak in the ambiance, admire the architecture, and enjoy the company of loved ones.
Be Flexible: Adapt to Unexpected Changes
Even with careful planning, unexpected changes can occur. Be prepared to adapt your plans and remain flexible. This will help you stay positive and make the most of your day, even if things don’t go exactly as planned.
Support Local Businesses: Show Your Appreciation
If you choose to patronize local businesses that are open on Christmas Day, be sure to show your appreciation. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in recognizing their dedication and service.
Stay Safe: Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
As with any travel, be mindful of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety. Stay aware of your belongings, avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas, and be cautious when crossing streets.
Enjoy the Magic of Savannah: Create Lasting Memories
Christmas Day in Savannah is a unique and memorable experience. Take the time to appreciate the city’s beauty, history, and festive spirit. Create lasting memories with loved ones that you’ll cherish for years to come.
Ultimately, Savannah on Christmas Day offers a different pace. Some hustle, but mostly a tranquil, often beautiful city ready for you to explore if you plan ahead.
What restaurants are open on Christmas Day in Savannah?
Some restaurants in Savannah remain open on Christmas Day, particularly those in the historic district and around the riverfront catering to tourists. Options often include hotel restaurants offering special holiday buffets or prix fixe menus, as well as a selection of Chinese and other international restaurants that typically observe their regular operating hours. Be sure to call ahead for reservations and to confirm their holiday hours.
It’s always recommended to check directly with the restaurant to confirm their availability and reservation policies. Popular choices in previous years have included The Olde Pink House (though often fully booked well in advance), Vic’s on the River, and several restaurants within larger hotels. Additionally, many chain restaurants that are usually open on Christmas can be found a short drive outside the downtown area.
Are there any tours operating on Christmas Day in Savannah?
Yes, several tour companies in Savannah continue to operate tours on Christmas Day, offering a festive and unique way to experience the city’s history and charm. These may include trolley tours, walking tours focusing on architecture or ghost stories, and riverboat cruises, all providing a different perspective of Savannah during the holiday season. Advance booking is highly recommended, as tours often sell out quickly during the holidays.
Operators like Old Town Trolley Tours and Savannah Riverboat Cruises are often listed as providing tours on Christmas. Checking with individual companies directly will provide the most accurate information regarding their schedules, tour availability, and any special holiday offerings they may have. Christmas tours frequently incorporate holiday decorations and special seasonal narration.
Will museums in Savannah be open on Christmas Day?
Most museums in Savannah are closed on Christmas Day, as many institutions observe the holiday. It’s rare to find major museums like the Telfair Museums or the SCAD Museum of Art open to the public on December 25th. This allows their staff to spend the holiday with their families.
However, it’s always best to check the individual museum websites for the most up-to-date information on their holiday closures. In some cases, smaller, privately owned galleries or historic house museums might be open, but these are exceptions rather than the rule. If a museum visit is a priority, plan to visit on Christmas Eve or the day after Christmas.
Are any shops or stores open on Christmas Day in Savannah?
The majority of retail shops and stores in Savannah are closed on Christmas Day, allowing employees to celebrate the holiday. This includes most major retailers, department stores, and boutiques in the historic district and throughout the city. Finding open retail locations on Christmas requires a strategic approach.
However, some convenience stores, pharmacies (like Walgreens or CVS), and gas stations may be open with limited hours to cater to basic needs. It is also possible that souvenir shops in hotel lobbies or tourist areas might be open for a limited time, but relying on this is risky. Call ahead to confirm their Christmas Day hours before heading out.
Can I attend a church service on Christmas Day in Savannah?
Yes, many churches in Savannah hold Christmas Day services, providing opportunities for worship and spiritual reflection. Different denominations offer services at various times throughout the day, often including traditional Christmas Day masses and special holiday programs. It’s a beautiful way to experience the holiday spirit in Savannah’s historic churches.
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, along with other historic churches in the area, typically holds services on Christmas Day. Checking the websites of individual churches or contacting them directly will provide the most accurate information about service times and any special events. Services may require reservations due to limited seating.
What transportation options are available on Christmas Day in Savannah?
Public transportation in Savannah, including the Chatham Area Transit (CAT) buses, typically operates on a reduced schedule or may not operate at all on Christmas Day. This makes it difficult to rely solely on buses for getting around the city. Alternative transportation options are important to consider.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are usually available, although demand may be higher and wait times longer than usual. Taxis may also be operating, but it’s best to book in advance. Walking is a viable option for exploring the historic district, especially if you are staying within that area. Check with specific transportation providers for their exact holiday schedules.
Are there any grocery stores open on Christmas Day in Savannah?
Finding an open grocery store on Christmas Day in Savannah can be challenging. Most major grocery chains, like Kroger and Publix, are closed to allow their employees to spend the holiday with their families. This means that planning ahead for groceries and supplies is essential.
However, some smaller convenience stores or drugstores with grocery sections, such as Walgreens or CVS, might be open with limited hours. These stores usually carry a limited selection of essential items. It’s advisable to check their hours online or call ahead to confirm they are open before making a trip.