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Get Your Southern Charm On: Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Savannah, Tennessee

The history sorts itself by weight. Main Street is the light end, antique shops and barbecue and a theater that has been running since 1929. Cherry Mansion is the middle, an 1830 house with period rooms and a cemetery on the grounds. Shiloh is the heavy end. Whichever you pick, somebody in Savannah will talk to you about it, and none of them will want anything from you in return.

Welcome to Savannah, Tennessee, a town people drive past in the heart of West Tennessee. History buff, outdoor enthusiast or keen eater, Savannah has your version. With its Main Street, its history and its long list of things to do, Savannah works for a weekend or for longer.

One of the main draws of Savannah is its Main Street, lined with shops and restaurants you will not find twice. Take a stroll down it and you turn up everything from antique stores to boutique clothing shops, alongside a range of dining options. Stop by the Savannah Candy Kitchen for something sweet, or grab a bite at the Catfish Hotel, a local favorite for over 80 years.

But Savannah is more than Main Street. History buffs will take to the Savannah Historic District, which holds historic homes and buildings, the Cherry Mansion among them, a Greek Revival-style mansion built in 1830. And for anybody who came for the outdoors, there is Pickwick Lake and Dam, which runs fishing, boating and hiking. Whatever your interests, Savannah delivers.

Key Takeaways

• Savannah, Tennessee offers a variety of activities for visitors, including exploring Main Street, visiting historic sites, and enjoying outdoor activities.
• The Savannah Historic District is a must-see for history buffs, featuring numerous historic homes and buildings.
• Pickwick Lake and Dam offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking.

The Allure of Main Street

If you want Southern character and hospitality, Main Street in Savannah, Tennessee is where to find it. This small street is full of boutiques, antique shops and dining options that hold travelers of all ages.

Antique Shops Galore

If you like vintage finds, Main Street is where to be. You find antique shops here brimming with pieces waiting for somebody to want them. From vintage jewelry to home decor nobody else has, it is all on Main Street.

Savannah Theater: Lights, Camera, Action!

If you want entertainment, head over to the Savannah Theater. This historic theater has been putting on shows since 1929 and is where to catch one. From musicals to comedies, there is always something running at the Savannah Theater.

Barbecue Heaven

No trip to the South is complete without barbecue, and Main Street runs some of the strongest around. Pulled pork, ribs or brisket, you find it all on Main Street. Bring your appetite.

So shopping, dining or entertainment, Main Street in Savannah, Tennessee has it all. So what are you waiting for? Come and take the character and hospitality of Main Street for yourself.

Historic District Adventure

Welcome to the Historic District of Savannah, Tennessee. This is where you step back in time and work through the history of the area. Here are the places that make the trip stick.

Cherry Mansion: A Step Back in Time

Built in 1830, the Cherry Mansion is a strong example of Greek Revival architecture. It was once home to James Cherry, a prominent lawyer and politician. Today the mansion opens for tours, and you can work through the many rooms filled with period furniture and artifacts. Check out the gardens and the historic cemetery on the property.

Civil War Echoes

Savannah played a significant role in the Civil War, and you can still see the marks of it today. Visit the Savannah Courthouse, where the Battle of Shiloh was planned, and see the bullet holes that still sit in the building’s walls. Take a stroll through the historic district and see the landmarks and historic sites that carry the town’s past.

History buff or somebody simply after a good day out, the Historic District of Savannah, Tennessee covers both. So put your walking shoes on and get out into the past.

Museums and Exhibits

When you are in Savannah, Tennessee, there are museums and exhibits you should not miss. Here are the ones worth the time:

Artifacts at Tennessee River Museum

At the Tennessee River Museum, you get some of the better artifacts in the area. You can look at a replica of a steamboat, learn the history of the Tennessee River, and see a real dugout canoe. And if the timing is right, you might catch a live demonstration of blacksmithing or woodworking.

Shiloh National Military Park

If you are a history buff, the Shiloh National Military Park earns the stop. You can take a self-guided tour of the battlefield, see the graves of fallen soldiers, and visit the Shiloh Indian Mounds. And if the timing is right, you might catch a reenactment of a Civil War battle.

So history or simply the artifacts themselves, these museums and exhibits in Savannah, Tennessee will not let you down.

Outdoor Activities

Savannah, Tennessee holds some of the outdoor activity Tennessee is known for. From hiking to fishing, the range covers everybody. Here are the outdoor activities to take in Savannah.

Pickwick Landing State Park

If you want time outdoors, Pickwick Landing State Park is the answer. With over 1,400 acres of ground, there is room to spread out. You can hike the trails, go fishing, or sit and let the country do the work. The park also runs a marina, so you can take a boat out on the lake.

Tennessee River Valley Excursions

The other outdoor option in Savannah is a Tennessee River Valley Excursion. You can take a guided tour of the Tennessee River Valley and learn the history of the area. You can also go fishing, kayaking, or simply take the country in. It is a strong way to spend a day outdoors.

Whichever outdoor activity you choose, you will get your money’s worth in Savannah. So grab your hiking boots, fishing gear or kayak and head out into what this area runs.

Main Street costs you nothing at all to walk down. So does the Savannah Courthouse, where the Battle of Shiloh was planned and the bullet holes are still sitting in the walls. Shiloh National Military Park runs a self-guided tour of the whole battlefield. Cherry Mansion charges. So does the theater, and so does the barbecue, and both of them are well worth the money.

Culinary Delights

Savannah, Tennessee will look after anybody who cares about food, with a range of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Barbecue, breakfast or fine dining, you will find something that holds your attention. Here are our favorite spots to check out:

Char: A Gastronomic Experience

If you want fine dining, Char is the answer. This upscale restaurant runs a menu of Southern cooking done carefully, with dishes such as shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes and grilled pork chops. The room is elegant and quiet, which makes it the spot for a special occasion or an evening with somebody.

Best Breakfast Spots

They say breakfast is the meal that matters, and in Savannah there are plenty of options to start the day right. Here are our picks:

• The Breakfast Club: This cozy cafe is a local favorite, serving up classic breakfast fare like pancakes, omelets, and biscuits and gravy. The portions are generous, so come hungry!
• The Old West Steakhouse: While this spot is better known for its steaks, their breakfast menu is not to be missed. Try the chicken and waffles or the breakfast burrito for a hearty start to your day.
• The Donut Palace: If you’re in the mood for something sweet, head to The Donut Palace for a selection of freshly baked donuts and pastries. The glazed donuts are a must-try!

A long dinner or a simple breakfast, Savannah has plenty of culinary delights on offer. So go ahead, take a bit more than you meant to. You have earned it.

West Tennessee Heritage

If you are a history buff, you are in for a treat in Savannah, Tennessee. West Tennessee carries heritage, and there are sites to work through that take you back a long way.

Battle of Shiloh: A Historic Journey

The Battle of Shiloh was fought in April 1862 and was one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. Today you can visit the Shiloh National Military Park and work the battlefield, which has been preserved as a national park. You can also visit the Shiloh National Cemetery where over 3,500 soldiers are buried. This site earns the stop for anybody interested in the Civil War.

Chickasaw Heritage

The Chickasaw Indians were one of the largest and most powerful tribes in the southeastern United States. They were known for their hunting and farming, and for a language and culture of their own. Today you can learn the Chickasaw heritage by visiting the Chickasaw State Park. The park runs a range of activities, hiking, fishing and camping among them. You can also visit the Chickasaw Cultural Center to learn more about the tribe’s history and culture.

In Hardin County, you can also visit the Savannah Historic District, which holds historic homes and buildings. The district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is worth the walk if you care about architecture and history.

The Civil War, Native American history, or simply historic sites for their own sake, West Tennessee covers all three. So put your walking shoes on and get ready to go back in time.

Pickwick Lake and Dam

Looking for time on the water? Pickwick Lake and Dam is the answer. This spot works for fishing, boating and swimming. Here is what to know before you go.

Fishing at Pickwick Lake

If you fish seriously, Pickwick Lake is where to be. This 43,100-acre lake holds a range of fish, catfish, bass and crappie among them. Cast your line and see what comes up.

Pro Tip: Do not forget your fishing license. You can buy one online or at a local bait and tackle shop.

The Majestic Pickwick Dam

The Pickwick Dam is worth standing in front of. This structure was completed in 1938 and is an important part of the Tennessee River system. Take a guided tour to learn the history and the engineering behind it.

Pro Tip: Bring your camera. You will want the river and the country around it on it.

Whether you want to land a big one or simply sit in the sun, Pickwick Lake and Dam covers both. So grab your swimsuit, pack a picnic and head over to this corner of Tennessee.

Frequently Asked Questions

What mischief can you get up to in Savannah, TN?

Well, you could try sneaking into the historic Cherry Mansion after hours, but we cannot guarantee you will not get caught. Or you could work the local antique shops and see what turns up. And if you are feeling adventurous, you could try to catch a catfish in the Tennessee River.

Is the Cherry Mansion in Savannah, TN worth a visit?

Absolutely. This antebellum mansion earns the stop for history buffs and anybody who follows architecture. Take a guided tour of the house and learn its past, or simply walk the gardens and take the Tennessee River in.

Are there any hidden gems for outdoor activities in Savannah, TN?

You bet. If you want a bit of adventure, head over to Pickwick Landing State Park and try your hand at kayaking, fishing or hiking. Or, if you want something slower, pack a picnic and head to Savannah City Park for an afternoon in the sun.

How long will it take you to get from Savannah, TN to Nashville, TN?

The drive from Savannah to Nashville is not a long one, depending on traffic and road conditions. But why rush? Take your time and let the countryside go past.

Can you tell me more about the Tennessee River Museum in Savannah, TN?

Of course. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Tennessee River and the communities along it. Work the exhibits on everything from Native American artifacts to Civil War memorabilia, and do not miss the chance to ride the museum’s authentic paddlewheel riverboat.

Frequently asked questions about Savannah, Tennessee

Which museum in Savannah is actually worth a full hour of your time?

The Tennessee River Museum, which holds a replica steamboat and a real dugout canoe inside it as well. There are exhibits on Native American artifacts and on Civil War memorabilia in there as well as that. Blacksmithing and woodworking demonstrations run live on the museum floor throughout the day. The paddlewheel riverboat runs.

Is Pickwick Lake actually any good for the fishing on it?

It runs to 43,100 acres and it holds catfish, bass and crappie right through it. Pickwick Landing State Park sits on it with over 1,400 acres of ground and a marina of its very own on top of that. Get the fishing license first, either online or at a local bait and tackle shop somewhere nearby. Go.

What is there actually to go and see out at Shiloh National Military Park?

The battlefield, which you take on a self-guided tour, is where the fighting happened back in April of 1862. Shiloh National Cemetery holds over 3,500 soldiers buried in the ground out there. The Shiloh Indian Mounds sit on that very same site as well. Most of a day.

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