The perfect family-friendly weekend in Savannah

Getting a scoop of ice cream at Leopold's has been a classic Savannah tradition since 1919! The soda fountain ambiance is just adorable, and they offer sandwiches and other cafe classics in addition to sundaes and cones of their homemade ice cream. The most classic flavors to order are lemon custard, rum bisque, butter pecan, and their signature, tutti frutti. Grab a seat at the counter and cool off after exploring the city!

As an old city right on the coast, Savannah has a special place in history. In fact, as you'll learn during a meal at the Pirate's House Restaurant, seafaring scoundrels frequented the settlement of Savannah back in the day! Sailors tossed back pints of grog in this old tavern back in the mid-18th century, and the current restaurant that's here pays tribute to the past with pirate-themed waiters who spin a mean yarn about the city's salty past and ghostly present (oh, and don't worry if your kids are young or don't like spooky stories; they're more than happy to tone down the scary bits). Plus, the menu is both kid- and adult-friendly, with burgers, seafood, chicken, salads, and more.

Step back in time at Old Fort Jackson! This beautifully restored 19th century historic landmark offers a look into the city's past. Re-enactors help tell the story of the fort, and of Savannah in the 1800s. Cannon firings, displays, interpretive signs, and more make this little fort a really in-depth and interactive history lesson for everyone.

Take advantage of Savannah's consistently warm weather with a round of classic, retro mini golf, a spin on some bumper go-karts, or a few pitches at the batting cages! Islands Miniature Golf and Games is fun for the whole family... and their putt-putt course is no joke, with tons of water traps and other fun hazards.

For an extra-exciting hike, head to the Oatland Island Wildlife Center. Well-marked trails take you through woodlands and past ponds, where you can safely see gators, turtles, birds, and tons more. There are even bison, bobcats, cougars and more here, although they tend to be a little more shy. But the visitor center has snakes, wolf cubs, and more on display, so you're guaranteed to see a few totally cool wild creatures!

If you're looking for a quirky take on history, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is dedicated almost entirely to a slightly more uncommon artifact: the model ship. Mini, but incredibly detailed recreations of colonial vessels, ironclads, ocean-going steamers, and modern Navy ships fill this historic building, and are displayed alongside paintings and maritime artifacts to tell the story of Savannah's seafaring history.

The Georgia State Railroad Museum takes a look at another method of transportation that played a huge role in the city's history: trains. Explore historic railcars, learn how train yards work from the functioning turntable, go for a spin on a handcar, watch blacksmiths at work, and even take a scenic ride on a historic steam engine! This landmark train yard is still bustling with activity, and offers loads to experience.