Things to Do in Forsyth Park Savannah GA: Activities & Visitor Guide
Forsyth Park covers 30 acres in Savannah, Georgia, and offers plenty to do without paying an admission fee. You can photograph the famous fountain, walk beneath live oak trees, or visit the gardens. Families can enjoy playgrounds, while couples can relax on the grassy lawns.
This guide covers the best things to do in Forsyth Park Savannah GA, including free activities and historic landmarks. You’ll also find visiting hours, parking options, walking directions, and nearby attractions to help plan your visit.
Forsyth Park Savannah at a Glance
Forsyth Park sits between Savannah’s Historic District and Victorian District. The park stretches from Gaston Street to Park Avenue, with Drayton Street and Whitaker Street along its sides.
Visitor Info | Details |
|---|---|
Location | Savannah, Georgia |
Park Size | 30 acres |
Admission | Free |
Main Attractions | Fountain, gardens, playgrounds |
Visit Duration | 30 minutes to 2 hours |
Best Photo Time | Early morning |
Farmers Market | Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
Parking | Street parking, small lots |
Accessibility | Paved walking paths |
Family Facilities | Playgrounds, lawns, restrooms |
The famous fountain stands near the northern entrance at Gaston Street and Bull Street. Most visitors can explore the main attractions on foot. Arrive early for easier parking and quieter photographs, especially on weekends.
For official park information, visit the City of Savannah’s Forsyth Park page.
Best Things to Do in Forsyth Park Savannah GA
Forsyth Park offers outdoor activities for families, couples, photographers, and visitors interested in Savannah’s history. Most attractions are free, and paved paths connect the park’s main areas. Start near the fountain, then continue south toward the gardens, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
1. Take Photos at the Famous Forsyth Park Fountain
The Forsyth Park Fountain stands near Gaston Street at the northern end of the park. Savannah installed this cast iron fountain in 1858, and it remains one of the city’s best known landmarks. Its decorative figures, water jets, and surrounding trees make it a popular photography location.
Walk around the fountain to find different angles, including views along the central promenade. Early morning usually offers softer light and fewer people in the background. Couples and families often stop here for vacation photographs.
The City of Savannah completed a major fountain restoration in December 2025. The project repaired historic metalwork, structural features, and water systems. Check the official fountain restoration information for updates about maintenance or temporary closures.
2. Walk Beneath the Live Oaks and Spanish Moss
Walking beneath the oak trees is one of the simplest ways to enjoy Forsyth Park. Large branches stretch above the paths, with Spanish moss hanging from the trees. The shaded walkways provide space for sightseeing, photography, and short breaks.
Begin near the fountain and follow the main promenade toward the southern lawns. You’ll pass benches, gardens, monuments, and open grassy areas along the way. Morning walks are especially pleasant during Savannah’s warmer months.
3. Explore the Garden of Fragrance
The Garden of Fragrance offers a quieter place to enjoy scented flowers and plants. You’ll find this enclosed garden on the western side of Forsyth Park. Its design encourages visitors to appreciate the plants through smell and touch.
The garden dates to 1963 and features decorative iron gates from Savannah’s former Union Station. Visitors can explore the planting areas and learn about the garden’s history. It is a useful stop for people interested in plants and public gardens.
The garden opens Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. It closes on weekends and holidays.
4. Visit the Forsyth Park Shade Garden
The Forsyth Park Shade Garden offers another place to enjoy plants beneath mature oak trees. It sits west of the Garden of Fragrance and features walking paths, shaded benches, and garden plants.
The City of Savannah worked with the Trustees’ Garden Club to develop this garden. Its design includes plants that grow with limited direct sunlight, along with seasonal flowers and ferns. The city scheduled its opening celebration for February 2026.
The garden makes a pleasant stop during a longer walk through Forsyth Park. You can rest on a bench while observing the plants growing beneath the tree canopy.
5. Shop at the Saturday Forsyth Farmers’ Market
The Forsyth Farmers’ Market takes place every Saturday near Bull Street and Park Avenue. Local farmers and food producers sell vegetables, fruit, honey, bread, cheese, and prepared foods. Product selections change throughout the year.
You can browse the stalls, meet local growers, or buy snacks for a picnic. The market accepts cash and offers a token system for card payments. SNAP and EBT payments are also available.
The market operates every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., throughout the year. Extreme weather may affect opening plans. Check the official Forsyth Farmers’ Market website for announcements.
6. Enjoy a Picnic on the Open Lawns
Forsyth Park has large grassy areas where visitors can relax and enjoy outdoor meals. The southern lawns offer space for families, couples, and small groups. You can bring sandwiches, fruit, drinks, and a blanket for a picnic.
Choose a comfortable spot away from busy walking paths and sports activities. Some areas offer shade from nearby trees, while others receive direct sunlight. Keep your picnic area clean and follow posted park rules.
7. Take Children to the Forsyth Park Playgrounds
The Forsyth Park playgrounds give children a place to play during a family visit. Kids can enjoy climbing equipment, slides, and other activities while parents supervise nearby. The surrounding paths and lawns also offer space for walking and family breaks.
The City of Savannah reopened the main playground on September 30, 2025, after improving its surface. The city has also announced plans for additional play facilities and splash pad improvements.
Check current construction updates before planning water activities or relying on specific playground equipment.
8. Walk or Jog Along the Park Paths
Forsyth Park has paved paths suitable for casual walks, jogging, and outdoor exercise. You can follow the central promenade or take connecting paths around the lawns. Walking routes also pass several historic monuments and garden areas.
Early morning is a good time for exercise before Savannah’s afternoon heat. Bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and take breaks when needed. Visitors who prefer shorter walks can remain near the fountain and northern paths.
9. Play Tennis, Basketball, or Outdoor Sports
Forsyth Park has tennis courts, basketball courts, and open spaces for recreational activities. Visitors can play sports, practice exercise routines, or enjoy casual games with friends. Bring your own equipment and respect other park users.
The City of Savannah completed renovations to the tennis courts on September 25, 2026. The project improved court surfaces, fencing, and surrounding facilities.
The tennis courts open daily from dawn until 9 p.m. Lighting operates between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Contact Bacon Park Tennis Center at 912 351 3850 for reservation information.
10. Enjoy Coffee or Brunch at Collins Quarter at Forsyth
Collins Quarter at Forsyth sits at 621 Drayton Street, along the park’s eastern side. The restaurant serves coffee, breakfast, brunch, and lunch in a setting overlooking the park. Outdoor seating makes it convenient for visitors taking a break from sightseeing.
Stop for coffee after visiting the fountain or plan a longer meal before exploring the southern lawns. Weekend mornings can become busy, so allow extra time. Check the restaurant’s official website for current menus and hours.
11. See the Park’s Historic Monuments
Forsyth Park contains several monuments connected to Savannah’s military and civic history. The Civil War Memorial stands within the park and commemorates Confederate soldiers. Dedicated in 1875, the monument underwent major design changes in 1879.
Its history also reflects wider discussions about slavery, segregation, and public remembrance. Visitors can read the inscriptions and consider how Savannah has presented its past.
At the southern end, the Spanish American War Memorial stands near Bull Street and Park Avenue. The bronze soldier statue is commonly called The Hiker. Another memorial near the northern entrance honors local United States Marines.
12. Attend a Concert, Festival, or Art Event
Forsyth Park hosts outdoor concerts, art festivals, and public gatherings throughout the year. The bandshell provides space for musical performances, while the walking paths host occasional art activities. Some events are free, although others may charge admission.
The SCAD Sidewalk Arts Festival brings chalk artwork to the park each spring. The 2026 festival took place on April 25. Savannah Jazz also held performances at Forsyth Park during September 2026.
Event dates change each year, so check official schedules before visiting. Large gatherings may also affect parking and access to certain park areas.
What Can You Do in Forsyth Park for Free?
Many of the best things to do in Forsyth Park cost nothing. Visitors can photograph the fountain, walk through gardens, enjoy picnics, or spend time on the playgrounds. The park is a practical choice for travelers exploring Savannah on a budget.
Free Activity | Best For |
|---|---|
Fountain photography | Couples, photographers |
Oak shaded walks | All visitors |
Garden visits | Nature lovers |
Picnics | Families, couples |
Playgrounds | Children |
Walking and jogging | Active visitors |
Farmers market browsing | Saturday visitors |
Historic monuments | History lovers |
Browsing the farmers market is free, but food purchases cost extra. Some organized activities and special events may also involve charges. The Garden of Fragrance has limited weekday hours, so plan accordingly.
Things to Do in Forsyth Park With Kids
Forsyth Park offers outdoor activities for families visiting Savannah with children. Playgrounds, grassy lawns, and walking paths provide opportunities for different age groups. Most family activities are free, making the park suitable for an affordable outing.
Best Activities for Toddlers and Young Children
The playgrounds are a practical first stop for families with younger children. Kids can use age appropriate equipment while parents supervise nearby. Short walks and fountain photographs can also fit into a family visit.
Choose shaded areas for rest breaks during warm weather. Bring drinking water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for children.
Activities for Older Children and Families
Older children can enjoy outdoor games, walking, and sports on the southern lawns. Bring a ball or flying disc for family recreation, but avoid crowded paths. Saturday visitors can also explore the farmers market and choose snacks together.
Families interested in history can visit the fountain and nearby monuments. Keep the visit short if younger children need frequent breaks.
What Parents Should Know Before Visiting
Check restroom availability when you arrive and carry drinking water during summer. Keep children close near roads, busy paths, and the fountain’s protective fence. Some facilities may close temporarily for maintenance or special events.
The city has announced further improvements to the existing splash pad and nearby gathering areas.
Forsyth Park Map and Where to Find the Main Attractions
Forsyth Park stretches between Gaston Street, Park Avenue, Drayton Street, and Whitaker Street. Its main attractions occupy different sections, so choosing the right entrance can save walking time. Visitors approaching from the Historic District usually enter near the fountain.
North End: Fountain and Historic Walkways
The fountain sits near Bull Street and Gaston Street at the park’s northern end. This entrance works well for visitors walking south through Savannah’s Historic District. Paved paths connect the fountain with the central promenade and nearby monuments.
Central Area: Gardens, Monuments, and Cafe
The central section contains the Garden of Fragrance, Shade Garden, and Civil War Memorial. Collins Quarter at Forsyth sits along the eastern side near Drayton Street. You can connect these attractions through the park’s walking paths.
South End: Playgrounds, Sports, and Farmers Market
The southern section contains open lawns, sports courts, and recreational areas. The Saturday farmers market operates near Bull Street and Park Avenue. Visitors interested mainly in these activities may prefer entering from the south.
How Long Should You Spend at Forsyth Park?
Plan to spend between 30 minutes and two hours at Forsyth Park, depending on your interests. A short visit covers the fountain and nearby paths. Allow more time for the gardens, playgrounds, meals, or Saturday farmers market.
30 Minute Visit: Fountain and Scenic Walk
Start at the northern entrance near Bull Street and Gaston Street. Photograph the fountain, then walk along the main promenade beneath the live oaks. This route works well for visitors with limited sightseeing time.
One Hour Visit: Fountain, Gardens, and Monuments
Begin at the fountain and continue toward the central gardens. Visit the Garden of Fragrance when it is open, then see the nearby monuments. Stop for photographs or rest on a shaded bench before leaving.
Two Hour Visit: Activities, Coffee, and Farmers Market
Spend time at the fountain, gardens, and southern lawns. Add coffee or brunch at Collins Quarter if you want a longer break. On Saturday mornings, include the farmers market near Park Avenue.
Visit Length | Suggested Plan |
|---|---|
30 minutes | Fountain and scenic walk |
1 hour | Fountain, gardens, monuments |
2 hours | Main attractions, market, coffee |
These plans provide estimated sightseeing times rather than fixed schedules. Families and visitors with mobility needs may prefer a slower pace. Allow additional time for meals, photographs, and busy weekends.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Forsyth Park?
Early morning is usually the best time to visit Forsyth Park for walking and photography. Spring and fall often provide comfortable weather for outdoor activities. Your preferred attractions may also influence the best day to visit.
Best Time of Day for Photos and Walking
Morning sunlight offers pleasant conditions for fountain photographs and walks beneath the trees. The paths may also feel quieter before daytime crowds arrive. Late afternoon can provide another opportunity for photographs.
Savannah becomes hot and humid during summer, particularly around midday. Choose cooler hours for longer walks and bring drinking water.
Best Day to Visit Forsyth Park
Weekdays work well for visitors who want to explore the Garden of Fragrance. The garden opens Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday is a better choice for travelers interested in the farmers market.
Weekend events may increase crowds and parking demand. Check the event calendar if you prefer a quieter visit.
Best Season to Visit Forsyth Park
Spring, March to May: Enjoy generally mild weather, seasonal flowers, and comfortable walking conditions. Azaleas often add color to Savannah’s parks and gardens.
Summer, June to August: Visit during cooler morning or evening hours. Bring water and sun protection because temperatures and humidity can become uncomfortable.
Fall, September to November: Cooler conditions make walking and outdoor events more comfortable. This season is suitable for exploring the park and nearby neighborhoods.
Winter, December to February: Enjoy walks during milder afternoons and potentially quieter periods. Bring a jacket for colder mornings.
Flowering periods and weather conditions vary each year. Check the forecast before planning outdoor activities.
Forsyth Park Hours, Admission, and Visitor Rules
Is Forsyth Park Free to Visit?
Yes, Forsyth Park is free to visit, and you do not need admission tickets. Visitors can use public walking paths, enjoy the fountain, and relax on open lawns. Food purchases and certain organized activities may cost extra.
What Are Forsyth Park’s Opening Hours?
The City of Savannah’s main Forsyth Park page does not provide one confirmed daily opening schedule. Check posted signs before planning a very early or late visit. Individual attractions and facilities have separate operating hours.
The Garden of Fragrance opens weekdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tennis courts operate daily from dawn until 9 p.m., while the Saturday market runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
What Rules Should Visitors Follow?
Keep dogs on leashes and clean up after them. Follow posted bicycle restrictions and leave room for pedestrians on shared paths. Use trash bins and avoid damaging plants, monuments, or playground equipment.
Large gatherings, weddings, and organized events may require city permits. Check posted notices for temporary closures or special restrictions.
Where Is Forsyth Park and How Do You Get There?
Forsyth Park sits along the southern edge of Savannah’s Historic District. Visitors can reach the park on foot, by car, rideshare, or the free downtown DOT shuttle. The best approach depends on your starting point and preferred attractions.
Forsyth Park Location and Main Entrances
The park’s northern boundary follows Gaston Street, while Park Avenue forms the southern boundary. Drayton Street runs along the east, and Whitaker Street runs along the west.
Enter near Bull Street and Gaston Street to reach the fountain. The Park Avenue entrances provide access to the southern lawns and sports facilities.
Walking to Forsyth Park From Savannah’s Historic District
Walking is a convenient option for visitors already exploring downtown Savannah. Follow Bull Street south through the historic squares toward Gaston Street. You’ll pass several historic landmarks before reaching the fountain.
The walk from Savannah’s riverfront area is roughly one mile, depending on your starting point. Allow extra time for photographs, street crossings, and rest stops.
Getting to Forsyth Park by Free DOT Shuttle
Savannah’s free DOT shuttle connects downtown attractions, hotels, and parking facilities. The service includes a Forsyth loop that helps visitors travel between the park area and the Historic District.
The shuttle operates seven days a week, although schedules vary by day. It also offers accessible transportation.
Check the Chatham Area Transit DOT shuttle schedule for current stops, hours, and holiday exceptions.
Getting to Forsyth Park by Car or Rideshare
Drivers can approach the park using Drayton Street, Whitaker Street, and nearby connecting roads. Choose a legal parking space or safe drop off location near your preferred entrance.
For fountain access, aim for the northern side near Gaston Street. Visitors heading toward sports facilities may prefer approaching from Park Avenue. Follow local traffic signs and watch for event closures.
Where Can You Park Near Forsyth Park Savannah GA?
Free street parking is available around much of Forsyth Park, particularly along nearby streets south of Gaston Street. Small parking areas also serve park visitors, but spaces can fill during weekends and events. Always read parking signs before leaving your vehicle.
Free Street Parking Near Forsyth Park
Look for legal street parking along the park’s eastern and western sides. Nearby residential streets may also provide free spaces, although restrictions vary by block.
Saturday farmers market mornings and large events can increase parking demand. Arrive early if you want a space close to your preferred entrance.
Small Public Parking Areas Near the Park
Small parking areas serve the southern tennis courts and eastern recreational facilities. These locations can reduce walking for families and sports visitors.
Spaces are limited, so do not depend on finding one immediately. Check posted signs for parking limits and any temporary restrictions.
Paid Parking and Backup Options
If nearby free spaces are full, consider metered streets farther north. Savannah enforces meters south of Liberty Street from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Those meters generally do not charge outside enforcement hours, although other parking restrictions still apply. Liberty Street Garage at 301 West Liberty Street provides another paid option farther from the park.
For more options, read our free parking in Savannah guide and Savannah parking guide.
Forsyth Park Facilities, Accessibility, and Pet Friendly Activities
Forsyth Park provides walking paths, public restrooms, shaded benches, and recreational facilities. These features help visitors plan comfortable outings, especially when traveling with children or pets.
Restrooms, Drinking Water, and Seating
Public restroom facilities are available within Forsyth Park, including facilities around its recreational areas. Access may change during maintenance or special events, so check their location when arriving.
Benches line several walking paths, with shaded seating beneath mature trees. Water fountains are also available, but carrying your own water is helpful during hot weather.
Wheelchair and Stroller Accessibility
Forsyth Park has paved paths suitable for many wheelchair users and families with strollers. The central promenade provides access to the fountain and several nearby attractions.
Visit Savannah identifies the park’s main walking trail as ADA accessible. However, grassy areas, garden entrances, and temporary event setups may create obstacles.
Check individual entrances before visiting if you have specific mobility needs. The free DOT shuttle also provides accessible transportation near the park.
Can You Bring Dogs to Forsyth Park?
Yes, dogs are welcome at Forsyth Park, but Savannah requires owners to keep pets leashed. Dog owners must also collect and properly dispose of pet waste.
The park has walking paths, dog waste bins, and drinking fountains that can serve pets. Bring additional water during summer and avoid hot pavement during the warmest hours.
Where to Eat and Drink Near Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park has convenient dining options nearby, including cafes serving breakfast, coffee, and lunch. You can eat at a restaurant or bring your own food for a picnic. The best choice depends on your budget and visit schedule.
Coffee and Breakfast Near Forsyth Park
Collins Quarter at Forsyth sits at 621 Drayton Street along the park’s eastern side. It serves coffee, brunch, and lunch, with outdoor seating overlooking the park.
The Sentient Bean sits at 13 East Park Avenue, across from the southern entrance. This coffee shop serves breakfast, lunch, baked goods, and vegetarian friendly meals.
Both locations work well for visitors taking a break during sightseeing. Check the Collins Quarter website or Sentient Bean website for current menus and hours.
Picnic Food and Snacks
Bringing your own food is a simple way to save money during a park visit. Pack sandwiches, fruit, and water, then choose a suitable lawn area.
On Saturday mornings, the farmers market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and prepared foods. You can buy snacks before continuing through the park.
For additional dining choices, read our best restaurants in Savannah GA guide.
Forsyth Park Events and Seasonal Activities
Forsyth Park hosts markets, concerts, art events, and community gatherings throughout the year. Some activities follow regular schedules, while festivals announce new dates annually. Check official event information before planning a trip around a particular performance.
Regular Activities and Saturday Market
The Forsyth Farmers’ Market operates every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Vendors gather near Bull Street and Park Avenue, selling locally produced foods and seasonal products.
The market runs throughout the year, except during extreme weather. Saturday mornings can become busy, particularly during pleasant weather.
Annual Festivals and Outdoor Performances
The SCAD Sidewalk Arts Festival brings chalk drawings and student artwork to Forsyth Park. The 2026 event took place on April 25, with artists working along the park’s paved paths.
Savannah Jazz also uses Forsyth Park for outdoor concerts. Its September 2026 festival featured performances on the park grounds.
Future dates may differ from previous years. Visit SCAD and Savannah Jazz for current announcements.
How to Check Upcoming Forsyth Park Events
Visit the Savannah events calendar to find concerts, festivals, and other public activities. Check the event organizer’s website for confirmed schedules and admission information.
Large gatherings can affect street parking and walking access around the park. Review transportation and parking options before attending a major event.
History of Forsyth Park and Its Famous Fountain
When Was Forsyth Park Established?
Forsyth Park began in the 1840s as a public green space covering approximately 10 acres. Savannah expanded the park over time, adding a former military parade ground in 1867.
The expansion increased the grounds to about 30 acres. Much of the park’s original layout remains recognizable today.
Why Is Forsyth Park Named Forsyth Park?
Forsyth Park takes its name from John Forsyth, a former Georgia governor and United States Secretary of State. The park became an important public gathering place as Savannah expanded southward.
Its walking paths, green spaces, and historic features reflect Savannah’s public park development during the nineteenth century.
History of the Forsyth Park Fountain
Savannah installed the Forsyth Park Fountain in July 1858, and water began flowing that August. The city ordered the fountain from a catalog produced by Janes, Beebe & Co.
A French fountain design influenced its decorative cast iron structure. The city completed a major restoration in December 2025 to preserve its historic features.
Historic Monuments and Changing Interpretations
The Civil War Memorial dates to 1875 and commemorates Confederate soldiers. Savannah changed its design in 1879, replacing earlier figures with a bronze soldier.
The monument reflects the city’s Civil War history and later efforts to commemorate the Confederacy. Its presence also raises questions about slavery, racial inequality, and public memory.
Visitors can learn about these issues through historical sources and the city’s monument records.
What Are the Best Things to Do Near Forsyth Park?
Several Savannah attractions sit within walking distance of Forsyth Park. You can explore historic squares, visit museums, or walk through residential neighborhoods after leaving the park.
Explore Monterey Square and Historic Bull Street
Monterey Square sits north of Forsyth Park along Bull Street. The square features shaded paths, historic buildings, and a monument honoring Revolutionary War figure Casimir Pulaski.
Walk north from the fountain to reach the square and surrounding landmarks. Visiting Monterey Square is free, making it an easy addition to a park visit.
Visit the Mercer Williams House Museum
The Mercer Williams House Museum stands at 429 Bull Street beside Monterey Square. This historic home features period furniture, artwork, and architecture from Savannah’s nineteenth century.
The house also appears in the story Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Guided tours last about 35 minutes, and ticket entry is at 430 Whitaker Street.
Check the museum’s official website for current admission prices and tour times.
Walk Through Savannah’s Victorian District
Savannah’s Victorian District extends south of Forsyth Park. The neighborhood contains historic homes with decorative woodwork, porches, and architectural features from the late nineteenth century.
Walking through the public streets is free. Respect private properties and stay on public sidewalks while exploring.
Visit the Massie Heritage Center
The Massie Heritage Center sits at 207 East Gordon Street near Taylor Square. This former school now houses exhibits about Savannah’s history, architecture, and public education.
Visitors can see historic classroom displays and learn about the city’s early development. The museum charges admission, so check the official Massie Heritage Center website for current prices and hours.
For more places to visit nearby, read our Savannah Historic District guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Forsyth Park Savannah GA
Final Thoughts: Is Forsyth Park Worth Visiting?
Forsyth Park is worth visiting for its historic fountain, gardens, walking paths, and free outdoor activities. Families can enjoy the playgrounds, while couples and photographers can spend time near the fountain. Saturday visitors can also explore the farmers market.
Plan your visit around your interests, available time, and walking needs. Before arriving, check current park conditions, event schedules, parking signs, and temporary closures.
John Robert
Travel Writer & Founder @ Thing Savannah
John Robert is a travel writer and explorer specializing in authentic regional guides, detailed itineraries, and practical travel logistics.