Savannah History Museum
Discover Savannah's rich past, from military history to jazz, and sit on the iconic Forrest Gump bench.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Savannah History Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Savannah's rich past, from military history to jazz, and sit on the iconic Forrest Gump bench.
"So many informative displays and even a film being shown in a theater. We learned so much!"
📸 Snap a Forrest Gump Pic
Don't miss the chance to sit on the actual bench from Forrest Gump!
🤝 Chat with the Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to answer questions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Forrest Gump Bench
Main Exhibition Hall
Sit on the iconic bench from the beloved movie 'Forrest Gump' and snap a memorable photo.
Savannah Jazz History Exhibit
Special Exhibition Area
Explore the roots and evolution of Savannah's vibrant jazz scene and its Hall of Fame inductees.
Military History Dioramas
Military History Section
Gain insights into local military history, including detailed dioramas of Revolutionary War battles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Richer Visit
Combine Your History Exploration
Planning to visit these together can maximize your time and offer a broader perspective on Savannah's heritage, especially for families.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Snap a Forrest Gump Pic
Don't miss the chance to sit on the actual bench from Forrest Gump!
🤝 Chat with the Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to answer questions.
⏳ Allow 45-60 Minutes
You can cover the museum's main exhibits in about an hour.
🎟️ Check for Discounts
Look for special offers, especially around holidays like Black Friday.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Snap a Forrest Gump Pic
Don't miss the chance to sit on the actual bench from Forrest Gump!
🤝 Chat with the Staff
Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to answer questions.
⏳ Allow 45-60 Minutes
You can cover the museum's main exhibits in about an hour.
🎟️ Check for Discounts
Look for special offers, especially around holidays like Black Friday.
🗺️ Combine with Nearby Museums
It's right next to the Railroad and Children's Museums.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Savannah History Museum for its informative displays and engaging staff, with many highlighting the unique Forrest Gump bench as a memorable photo opportunity. While some note the museum is on the smaller side, its rich local history and accessible layout make it a worthwhile stop for a quick yet insightful exploration of Savannah's past.
"There were so many informative displays and even a film being shown in a theater. We learned so much in one visit. The staff were wonderful and took time to fully answer any questions we had. I didn't know the park bench from the Forest Gump movie was here."
Roy W.W.
"My husband loves history and so do I so when we visited Savannah we definitely wanted to make sure we visited this museum. There was a man dress as a soldier who was extremely informative of the war and everything that happened with the history of Savannah as well as a theater set up with a movie to watch about the history as well. The museum is handicap accessible, which is really nice."
Lana Purvine
"Novel museum ! They have the actual bench from the Forest Gump movie. Also, they have a great section on Julia Gordon Lowe. You can cover the museum in about 45 minutes to an hour. Great local history information."
Kelly Sidney
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Savannah History Museum is located at 303 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401. It's easily accessible by car, and there are parking options nearby. Many visitors also find it convenient to reach on foot or via trolley tours if they are already exploring the historic district.
Yes, the museum is handicap accessible, making it a comfortable visit for everyone.
Many visitors opt for walking tours or hop-on-hop-off trolleys to navigate Savannah's historic district, which includes the museum. This allows for easy access and a comprehensive way to see the sights.
Yes, there are parking garages and street parking available in the vicinity of the museum. It's advisable to check parking rates and availability in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Absolutely! Many Savannah history tours and trolley services include stops at or near the Savannah History Museum, offering a convenient way to learn about the city's past.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Savannah History Museum typically operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, but it's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays.
Admission prices can vary, but generally, adult tickets are around $15, with discounts for seniors, military, and children. Check the museum's website for current Savannah history museum cost and Savannah history museum price details.
Yes, purchasing Savannah history museum tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during busy periods, to save time and guarantee entry.
The Coastal Heritage Society, which manages the Savannah History Museum, often offers combo tickets or memberships that include access to other affiliated museums like the Georgia State Railroad Museum and Old Fort Jackson.
Yes, group rates are typically available for the Savannah History Museum. It's best to contact the museum directly to inquire about group bookings and pricing for your party.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the iconic Forrest Gump bench, the comprehensive Savannah Jazz History exhibit, and the detailed military history dioramas.
Most visitors spend about 45 minutes to an hour exploring the exhibits. The museum is relatively compact but packed with information.
Yes, the museum features a theater where a film about Savannah's history is shown, providing an engaging overview of the city's past.
While not always formal guided tours, the staff are exceptionally knowledgeable and often provide informal insights and answer questions, enhancing the visitor experience. Some visitors have highlighted specific staff members like Patrick for their expertise.
The museum covers a broad spectrum of Savannah's history, from its early days and military conflicts to its industrial growth and cultural contributions, including a significant focus on jazz music.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Yes, the Savannah History Museum has two gift shops offering souvenirs and items related to Savannah's history.
The museum itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant, but there are many dining options available in the surrounding historic district, ranging from casual cafes to fine dining establishments.
While the main draw is the bench itself, the gift shop may offer some general Savannah-themed souvenirs. Specific Forrest Gump merchandise might be limited.
Yes, special promotions like 20% off on Black Friday using a code word are sometimes offered at the museum's gift shops.
The area around the museum offers a variety of Southern cuisine, seafood, and classic American fare. You'll find everything from quick bites to sit-down meals within a short walk.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside the Savannah History Museum, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits. It's always best to check for any posted signage.
The Forrest Gump bench is a prime photo opportunity. Other visually interesting areas include the military dioramas and exhibits showcasing Savannah's rich cultural heritage.
For personal social media sharing, it's usually fine. However, if you plan to use photos for commercial purposes or professional media, you'll likely need to seek permission from the museum.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial, as some exhibits may be dimly lit. A versatile lens that can capture both wide shots and details would also be useful.
You can find Savannah history museum photos on the museum's official website, social media channels, and travel blogs. Searching for 'Savannah history museum photos' will yield many results.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the history museum itself might be more geared towards older children and adults, the Forrest Gump bench offers a fun, recognizable element. The informative displays and potential for engaging staff interactions can keep younger minds curious.Consider focusing on the more visual exhibits, like the dioramas, and the jazz history section. The museum is handicap accessible, making it easier for families with strollers or mobility needs. Planning your visit for a weekday morning can help avoid peak crowds, ensuring a more relaxed experience for everyone.
🏛️ History Buffs
The detailed dioramas and knowledgeable staff provide depth to the exhibits, making it a rewarding visit.Don't miss the chance to engage with the staff; many visitors rave about their expertise and willingness to share insights, particularly regarding military history and local lore.
🎬 Movie Enthusiasts
It's a chance to connect with a beloved movie in a real-world setting.While the museum's primary focus is Savannah's broader history, the Forrest Gump bench adds a layer of pop culture relevance that appeals to a wide audience. It's a fun, memorable highlight that makes the visit stand out, even for those who might not typically frequent history museums.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Forrest Gump Connection
It serves as a tangible link to a beloved film and a popular photo opportunity, drawing fans and casual visitors alike. While the museum focuses on Savannah's broader historical narrative, this pop culture artifact adds a unique and memorable dimension to the visitor experience.The presence of the bench highlights how local history can intersect with popular culture, drawing a wider audience to historical sites. It's a reminder that history isn't just about grand events but also about the stories and moments that resonate with people. For many, it's a chance to recreate a famous movie moment and connect with a piece of cinematic nostalgia. This unique exhibit ensures the Savannah History Museum is more than just a repository of artifacts; it's a place where history and popular culture converge.
Exploring Savannah's Rich Military Past
A particular highlight for many is the presence of detailed dioramas that vividly recreate key historical moments, such as Revolutionary War battles that took place on the very grounds where the museum now stands. These visual representations offer a unique perspective on historical events, allowing visitors to grasp the scale and significance of past conflicts. The museum's staff, often praised for their knowledge, can further enrich this experience by explaining the intricacies of these displays and the historical context surrounding them.
The Rhythms of Savannah Jazz
The Savannah Jazz History and Hall of Fame exhibit features information on prominent musicians and significant moments in the genre's history within the city. It's a chance for visitors to learn about the artists who shaped Savannah's sound and understand the cultural impact of jazz. This exhibit provides a fascinating glimpse into a key aspect of Savannah's artistic and social history, making the museum a destination for both history buffs and music enthusiasts.
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