Sniffari Getaway to Savannah, Georgia
- rjahner5395
- 18 hours ago
- 12 min read
This travel spot is featured in our sixth blog series, Mutts Mingle.
Savannah, Georgia's charm isn't limited to its historic streets and moss-covered oaks—it's also a city full of dog lovers. Locals often joke that some neighborhood dogs are more famous than the people who live there. As you explore the city, you may spot friendly pups confidently leading their owners through the historic squares, as if they know Savannah better than their humans do! From leisurely strolls along cobblestone sidewalks to relaxing afternoons in the city's beautiful parks, dogs are a natural part of life in Savannah. Whether they're greeting passersby from a café patio or enjoying a walk beneath the iconic live oaks, these four-legged locals add even more warmth and personality to the city's welcoming atmosphere.
And this is all what makes Savannah one of those vacation destinations where bringing your dog actually makes the trip even better. With its shaded historic squares, charming cobblestone streets, outdoor cafés, and relaxed Southern atmosphere, the city feels tailor-made for long walks with a furry companion.
Instead of constantly searching for pet-friendly options, visitors quickly discover that Savannah embraces dogs as part of the experience. From morning strolls beneath moss-covered oak trees to evenings spent dining outdoors along River Street, Savannah offers the perfect balance of history, hospitality, and pet-friendly adventure.
One of the best parts of visiting Savannah with a dog is simply exploring the Historic District together. The city’s famous squares provide endless opportunities for leisurely walks and scenic breaks in the shade. Forsyth Park is especially popular among dog owners thanks to its large green spaces, walking paths, and iconic fountain that serves as one of Savannah’s most photographed landmarks. Early mornings are particularly beautiful, when the streets are quiet and the cooler temperatures make it comfortable for both dogs and owners to wander through the city’s historic neighborhoods. For travelers looking for something more interactive, Savannah also offers dog-friendly walking tours where pups are welcomed alongside their humans while learning about the city’s fascinating history and ghost stories.
Beyond downtown, Savannah offers several outdoor spaces perfect for active dogs. Skidaway Island State Park, located just outside the city center, features wooded trails, marsh views, and plenty of fresh air for dogs who need a break from the sidewalks. The park’s natural beauty gives visitors a chance to experience coastal Georgia’s scenery while enjoying a peaceful hike with their pets. Savannah also has dedicated dog parks like Herty Pines Dog Park, where dogs can socialize and burn off energy before heading back to the city for a relaxing evening.
Dining with a dog in Savannah is surprisingly easy because so many restaurants offer outdoor seating. Treylor Park is a dog-friendly restaurant in historic downtown Savannah. Fido is welcome in the outdoor beer garden, which is heated in the cooler months. The restaurant serves "comfort food with a twist" at lunch, dinner, and they have a popular weekend brunch. Be sure to try the PB&J chicken wings, shrimp and grits tacos, or the Treylor Park Nachos Grande: waffle fries topped with fried chicken, pickles, bacon, cheddar cheese and chive ranch dressing. The Olde Pink House, one of Savannah’s most iconic restaurants, also offers outdoor areas where dogs are welcome while guests enjoy classic Southern cuisine in a historic setting. Reservations are recommended, especially for the dog-friendly outdoor tables.
Traveling to Savannah with a dog does require a little preparation, especially during the warmer months. The city’s humidity can be intense, so carrying water during walks is important. Early mornings and evenings are often the most comfortable times for outdoor activities, particularly in the summer. Since many restaurants only allow dogs in outdoor seating areas, checking ahead can help avoid surprises. Comfortable paws are also essential because Savannah’s sidewalks and cobblestone streets can become hot during the day.
What makes Savannah truly special for dog owners is how naturally pets fit into the rhythm of the city. Whether sitting beneath the shade of historic oak trees, exploring scenic parks, enjoying patio dining, or relaxing together after a day of sightseeing, Savannah creates the kind of vacation where dogs are not just accommodated but genuinely welcomed. For travelers who consider their pets part of the family, Savannah offers an unforgettable getaway filled with Southern charm, walkable beauty, and countless opportunities to make memories together.
Paws Rest Here
Luie Boone had paw-selected this perfect vacation rental for your stay in Savannah, Georgia. Check it out below!
Rental Name: Frogtown Cottage
This rental has 3 bedrooms with 4 beds and 2 baths.
Photos by TybeeVacationRentals.com
It features the following amenities:
Comfortable cottage located in Historic Downtown Savannah
Eat-in kitchen that is fully equipped
One bedroom opens out to the back porch
Back deck offers a charcoal grill and table seating for 7
Patio
Inground pool is 13ft x 24ft and varies from 3 to 6.5 feet deep and also offers optional pool heat year-round
Outdoor shower (cold only) perfect for rinsing off before swimming
Fully fenced yard
What would Luie Boone have thought of this rental? He would have woofed:
My humans kept talking about our trip to Savannah, and I could barely contain my excitement. Frogtown Cottage sounded perfect for a dog like me — a fenced backyard, a screened porch, walkable streets, and plenty of cozy spots to nap after exploring. I imagined patrolling the yard, relaxing by the fireplace, and hoping for the occasional snack to fall from the kitchen counter. The best part was that dogs were welcome, and Savannah itself sounded wonderful, with treats, water bowls, and dog-friendly places all around town. Of course, Frogo, my human sister Rachel’s stuffed frog, was coming too. He was considered part of the family, even though his main job seemed to be appearing dramatically in photos while I handled the important work of exploring. Sadly, I never got to make the trip. But I loved hearing my family talk about it, and I know they’ll carry a little piece of me with them as they make new memories. Wherever they go, I’ll always be along for the adventure in spirit.
Paws Venture Here
Luie Boone had sniffed out and dug up these local gems for you to check out while vacationing in Savannah, Georgia!
Wormsloe Historic Site
A stunning, dog-friendly avenue shaded by towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss leads you and your pup into the heart of Wormsloe Historic Site.
This was once the colonial estate of Noble Jones, a carpenter who arrived in Georgia in 1733 with James Oglethorpe and the first wave of English settlers.
At the end of the oak-lined drive, your dog can sniff and explore around the tabby ruins—some of the oldest surviving structures in the Savannah area—built from crushed shell, lime, sand, and water.
Today, the grounds are a relaxed, leash-friendly place where visitors and their dogs can wander a wide, well-kept dirt path through maritime forest and open coastal woods. The route passes beneath massive oaks, through shady understory trails, and out toward sweeping marsh views that are often filled with birds and soft coastal breezes.
The walk is easy and mostly flat, making it a comfortable outing for most dogs. The surface is generally smooth dirt, though you may encounter a few exposed roots, sandy stretches, or damp spots after rain—perfect for curious noses and paw-level exploration.
Overall, it’s a peaceful mix of history, shade, and coastal scenery—more of a slow, sniff-filled stroll than a hike, with plenty for both humans and dogs to enjoy.
Moon River at Downing Piers
Moon River at Downing Piers is a 6.8-mile coastal trail in Savannah that’s perfect for a scenic adventure with your pup.
This leisurely hike winds through coastal forests, algae ponds, marshes, and saltwater creeks, with plenty of interesting sights and smells to keep tails wagging along the way.
The trail is also popular for biking and bird watching, making it a lively spot to explore outdoors together. It begins at Priest Landing and stretches to the Skidaway Oceanography Institute, featuring a mix of dirt paths, rocky inclines, and charming wooden bridges.
As you and your dog follow the banks of the Moon River, you’ll enjoy beautiful water views and peaceful natural surroundings. Along the route, you’ll pass the historic Downing Piers — a series of wooden docks dating back to the early 1900s — as well as shady oak and pine forests where local wildlife is often spotted.
Some sections of the trail can be steep or uneven, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks for both you and your four-legged hiking buddy, especially on warmer days.
With its mix of coastal beauty, shaded forest paths, and rich local history, the Moon River trail is a rewarding outing for dogs and their humans alike — and a must-visit when exploring the Savannah area.
Whitemarsh Nature Preserve
Located near Savannah on Whitemarsh Island, Whitemarsh Nature Preserve is a favorite destination for dog lovers and their four-legged companions, thanks to its natural, undeveloped beauty.
Tucked between two of the Islands’ busiest roads, this peaceful preserve offers dogs and their humans a true escape into nature — a quiet world of winding trails, towering trees, and open spaces just waiting to be explored.
Stepping off Johnny Mercer Boulevard or Bryan Woods Road and into the preserve feels like entering another world entirely. Shaded woodland paths with playful names like “Stardust,” "Happy Trails", and even “Fart Swamp” create the perfect setting for adventurous walks, tail wags, and curious noses. Wooden boardwalks cross marshy areas, while leafy trails invite long strolls beneath the canopy. (And yes — bug spray is a good idea for both people and pups.)
Maps posted at the Johnny Mercer entrance, complete with a convenient QR code, make it easy to navigate the preserve and discover new favorite routes with your dog by your side.
Popular with dog walkers, runners, bikers, and nature enthusiasts alike, Whitemarsh Nature Preserve is spacious enough that you and your pup can enjoy a sense of peace and privacy even on busy days.
Don’t miss the expansive open field at the heart of the preserve — a wide grassy clearing surrounded by majestic oaks and towering pines. It’s the kind of place where dogs can happily sniff the breeze while their humans pause to soak in the view.
As locals say, “Once you see it, you’ll know you want to come back.” And chances are, your dog will too.
Big Ferry Trail
Hike Skidaway Island’s Big Ferry Trail near Savannah for a scenic coastal adventure through moss-draped forests, marshland, and peaceful boardwalks.
This dog-friendly trail stretches about 2.4 miles and offers a relaxing mix of natural beauty, wildlife, and history, making it one of the most unique hikes in the area.
The trail begins beneath a canopy of towering oaks, palms, and pines, where Spanish moss hangs from the trees and small ponds line the wooded path.
The mostly flat terrain and shaded forest make this a comfortable and enjoyable hike for dogs, especially on warmer days. Dogs are welcome on leash and will love exploring the variety of scents, wooded sections, and open marsh views along the route.
As the hike winds through the quiet coastal forest, the sounds of birds and rustling marsh grass create a peaceful atmosphere that feels far removed from the nearby city. The trail’s wide paths and boardwalk sections make it easy to navigate with dogs, and there are plenty of scenic spots to stop for water breaks and photos along the way.
One of the most memorable features of the trail is the wooden observation tower overlooking the Skidaway Narrows intercoastal waterway. A scenic boardwalk leads hikers out toward the tower, where sweeping panoramic views stretch across salt marshes, tidal flats, and winding waterways. It’s an excellent spot for birdwatching, photography, or simply relaxing with your dog while enjoying the coastal scenery.
Beyond the observation area, the trail continues deeper into the forest through dense clusters of saw palmetto, twisted live oaks, and tall pines. Occasional openings in the trees reveal beautiful marsh views and glimpses of the surrounding wetlands, adding variety to the hike and plenty for curious dogs to explore.
The trail also offers a fascinating look into the region’s history.
Along the route, hikers pass old Civil War earthworks built by Confederate soldiers to help defend Savannah during the war. Farther along, hidden in the woods, are the rusted remains of prohibition-era moonshine stills. During the 1930s, the island’s secluded location made it an ideal place for illegal liquor production, and the remains still sit quietly among the trees today.
As the loop continues, the path meanders through water-lined forest and shaded marsh edges before eventually returning to the trailhead.
With its combination of coastal scenery, historic landmarks, wildlife viewing, and dog-friendly terrain, Big Ferry Trail is a perfect outdoor escape for hikers looking to enjoy a peaceful and scenic adventure with their four-legged companion.
Mermaid Pirate Dolphin Tour
Mermaid Pirate Dolphin Tour is a tail-wagging adventure unlike any other!
With boats that ride low to the water, you and your pup can feel the refreshing splash of the waves right at your fingertips — or paws.
Dog owners and their well-behaved, leashed canine companions are welcome aboard for one of Captain John’s unforgettable excursions, including dolphin tours, fossil hunt tours, private sunset cruises, and River Street sightseeing tours.
During this relaxing 2-hour journey, you and your furry first mate can explore the beautiful Savannah waterways while the captains guide you to stunning local sights and hidden gems.
This is an interactive, dog-friendly dolphin boat tour!
As you search the waters for dolphins, the captains will teach you and your pup fun ways to spot these incredible marine mammals.
Watch dolphins swim so close to the boat that both you and your dog will feel a special connection to them.
Sniff out an unforgettable adventure and make memories with your four-legged best friend!
Book your dog-friendly dolphin boat tour in Savannah online today!
Colonial Park Cemetery
Located in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District, dog-friendly Colonial Park Cemetery offers a unique blend of history and outdoor exploration for you and your pup.
As one of the oldest surviving cemeteries in the United States, it provides a peaceful setting for a leisurely walk with your leashed dog among centuries of Savannah history.
Established in 1750, the cemetery expanded three times by 1789 to reach its present size. Although it closed nearly a century later and eventually fell into disrepair, Colonial Park was beautifully restored and reopened as a public park in the 1890s.
Today, Colonial Park Cemetery remains one of Savannah’s most fascinating landmarks. Behind its tall wrought-iron fences lie hundreds of gravestones and more than 10,000 graves. Many visitors are surprised to learn that the burial grounds extend beyond the walls and beneath nearby Abercorn Street, adding another layer of intrigue to this historic site. Every path throughout the cemetery holds stories waiting to be discovered.
Locals, tourists, and their four-legged companions visit Colonial Park daily to enjoy its quiet beauty and historic charm. The cemetery is open to pedestrians from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. November through March, and from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. March through November.
Leashed dogs are welcome to join you as you stroll through one of Savannah’s most iconic and dog-friendly historic spaces.
During the day, the grounds feel calm and reflective. At night, the stillness deepens, and many visitors say the air feels heavier, as if the past still lingers nearby.
Thousands of people were laid to rest there, including soldiers, city leaders, and families who helped shape Savannah’s early years. Guides on the Ghosts & Gravestones Tour often describe Colonial Park Cemetery Savannah as one of the most active haunted sites in the city. With so many stories of loss, change, and survival, it is a place where history feels close enough to touch.
Al Bungard Conservation Area
Quiet, expansive, and wonderfully unspoiled, Chatham County’s parks and nature preserves offer plenty of space for both people and pups to roam, relax, and reconnect with the outdoors.
Just a short drive down Chief of Love Road leads you to one of the area’s hidden gems — a peaceful retreat perfect for a dog-friendly day in nature.
Tucked a bit off the beaten path, Al Bungard Conservation Area features scenic walking trails, open green spaces, picnic areas, and tranquil waterfront spots where you can cast a fishing line while your four-legged companion enjoys the fresh coastal air.
It’s the kind of laidback Lowcountry escape that feels straight out of a postcard.
Named after former Chatham County Engineer Al Bungard, this quiet getaway sits just across the road from Chatham County’s Kings Ferry Boat Ramp and Community Park, making it an easy stop for outdoor adventurers and their canine sidekicks.
Part of the Ogeechee River Basin, the conservation area includes one of the freshwater ponds operated by Chatham County Parks and Recreation. Anglers can fish for bass and bream from bridges, shorelines, or non-motorized boats like kayaks and canoes.
As with many natural areas in coastal Georgia, visitors should be aware that wildlife — including alligators — may be present near the water. Dogs should remain leashed and kept a safe distance from pond edges and marshy areas.
In addition to fishing, the park is a favorite for dog walks, hiking, bicycling, and birdwatching.
A shaded pavilion with picnic tables offers the perfect place to cool off, enjoy lunch, and spend quality time with friends, family, and furry companions alike.
J. Christopher's
They love pets so much at J. Christopher’s that they even have doggie bags on the menu!
J. Christopher's in the historic district of Savannah is located in a fairly busy area, but the sidewalks are really wide so there’s plenty of room for dogs to stretch out.
One section is covered by an awning and there’s also a large tree that provides ample shade.
The menu has a good mix of diner breakfast-style food and cafe-type sandwiches for lunch. Skillets, omelets, blueberry crunch pancakes and pecan banana french toast dishes are the way to go.
And, of course, don’t forget to try out the “Puppy Chow” on the menu. It is a bowl full of deliciousness – potatoes, bacon, sausage, and scrambled egg all for your “not spoiled” furry friend!
Luie Boone's Pet Peeve about
Savannah, Georgia
There's just so much to love about this vacation destination, but there's one thing that would have put Luie Boone's leash in a twist and he would have woofed:
My humans had been very excited about our trip to Savannah. They kept talking about the beautiful streets, historic buildings, and giant oak trees covered in Spanish moss. Everyone thought the moss looked charming. I thought it looked haunted. My biggest concern was what might have been hiding in that moss. What if there were bugs living in it? My humans insisted it was harmless, but I was not convinced. Rachel, my human sister, was too busy packing her favorite stuffed frog, Frogo, to worry about such things. I thought Frogo should have spent less time smiling and more time questioning the haunted trees. My humans laughed at my concerns, but I thought they were completely reasonable. Regular trees were trustworthy. Trees covered in mysterious hanging moss were not. Sadly, I never got the chance to investigate those trees for myself.
Comments