Nightlife

River Street, along the Savannah River, is the major after-dark venue. Many night owls stroll the waterfront until they hear the sound of music they like, then follow their ears inside. In summer, concerts of jazz, Big Band, and Dixieland music fill downtown Johnson Square with lots of foot-tapping sounds that thrill both locals and visitors. Some of Savannah's finest musicians perform regularly on this historic site.

The Performing Arts

Savannah Symphony Orchestra has city-sponsored concerts in addition to its regular ticketed events. Spread a blanket in Forsyth Park and listen to the symphony perform beneath the stars, or be on River Street on the Fourth of July when the group sends rousing strains echoing across the river.

The orchestra is one of two fully professional orchestras in the state of Georgia, and its regular nine-concert masterworks series is presented in the Savannah Civic Center's Johnny Mercer Theater, Orleans Square (tel. 912/651-6557; www.savannahcivic.com), which is also home to ballet, musicals, and Broadway shows. Call to find out what's being presented at the time of your visit. Tickets range from $15 to $100.

Savannah Theatre, Chippewa Square (tel. 912/233-7764; www.savannahtheatre.com), presents contemporary plays. Tickets are usually $32 for regular admission, $30 for seniors or students, $15 for ages 12 to 16, and $10 for children 11 and under.

Late September brings the 5-day Savannah Jazz Festival (tel. 912/232-2222; www.savannahjazzfestival.org), with nationally known musicians appearing around the city.

Dinner Cruises

The Savannah River Queen, a replica of the boats that once plied this waterway, is a 350-passenger vessel operated by the River Street Riverboat Co., 9 E. River St. (tel. 800/786-6404 or 912/232-6404; www.savannah-riverboat.com). It offers a 2-hour cruise with a prime rib or fish dinner and live entertainment. Reservations are necessary. The fare is $44 for adults and $28 for children 11 and under. Departures are usually daily at 7pm, but the schedule might be curtailed in the colder months.