Bars, Clubs & Pubs
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. Note: Almost uniquely in the U.S., you are permitted to drink alcohol in the streets in open cups in Savannah.
The Performing Arts
Formed in 2009, the Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra (tel. 912/232-6002; www.savannahphilharmonic.org) presents a full range of concerts each season (Sept–May), from classics to pops. It often performs with the Savannah Philharmonic Chorus in the Lucas Theatre (www.lucastheatre.com), the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and other venues around Savannah. Visit the website for the latest schedule. Regular tickets usually range from $16 to $70.
Savannah Civic Center’s Johnny Mercer Theater, on the corner of Liberty and Montgomery streets, at Orleans Square (tel. 912/651-6556; www.savannahcivic.com), hosts touring ballets, musicals, and Broadway shows. The Center’s Martin Luther King Arena hosts major concerts and events. Visit the website 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; http://savannahtheatre.com), presents contemporary plays. Tickets are usually $35 for adults, and $17 for children 17 and under.
Late September brings the 5-day Savannah Jazz Festival (www.savannahjazzfestival.org), with nationally known musicians appearing around the city, while the eclectic Savannah Music Festival (www.savannahmusicfestival.org) runs late March into April.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
