Telfair Square
Historic Savannah square, home to art museums and monuments, offering a tranquil escape and a glimpse into the city's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance
Telfair Square
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Savannah square, home to art museums and monuments, offering a tranquil escape and a glimpse into the city's past.
"A beautiful square, just like the city. Great company."
🚶♀️ Stroll & Relax
Enjoy the shade and benches for a peaceful break. Perfect for a quiet moment amidst the city buzz.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture beautiful shots with the monuments and surrounding historic architecture.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Telfair Academy
North side of the square
Explore impressive art collections in this historic mansion, a cornerstone of Savannah's cultural scene.
Jepson Center
East side of the square
Experience contemporary art and innovative exhibitions in this modern architectural marvel.
Girl Scout Monument
Southwest corner of the square
A tribute to Juliette Gordon Low and the founding of the Girl Scouts of America.
Chambered Nautilus Monument
Northwest corner of the square
A unique sculpture representing the beauty and complexity of nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Square Etiquette & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll & Relax
Enjoy the shade and benches for a peaceful break. Perfect for a quiet moment amidst the city buzz.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture beautiful shots with the monuments and surrounding historic architecture.
☕ Grab a Coffee Nearby
Several charming coffee shops are just a short walk away for a caffeine fix.
📚 Book Festival Hub
This square is a key location during the Savannah Book Festival.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll & Relax
Enjoy the shade and benches for a peaceful break. Perfect for a quiet moment amidst the city buzz.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture beautiful shots with the monuments and surrounding historic architecture.
☕ Grab a Coffee Nearby
Several charming coffee shops are just a short walk away for a caffeine fix.
📚 Book Festival Hub
This square is a key location during the Savannah Book Festival.
🐴 Carriage Ride Pickup
A common pickup spot for romantic horse and carriage tours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Telfair Square is praised for its historical significance, beautiful tree canopy, and central location, making it a peaceful respite and a key cultural hub with the Telfair Museums nearby. Some visitors note it can be busy, especially during events, and parking can be a challenge.
"One of the oldest Squares, it was laid out in 1733 as one of the first 4 to be created, and was originally named St. James Square.
In 1833, it was renamed to honor the Telfair Family, prominent citizens who contributed greatly to Savannah's cultural and economic growth. This makes this Square unique, as it is the only one named for a family rather than an individual.
For my reviews on all the other Savannah Squares, click my name and choose the tab "Savannah". Thanks."
StevePotts
"Beautiful square just like the city. Met here for a ghost tour. The story of the telfair tower is shocking. Great company."
Gypsy Dharma Tierney Langdon
"Beautiful location where we attended the Savannah Book Festival"
Jay Bee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Telfair Square is centrally located in downtown Savannah, easily accessible by foot if you're staying nearby. Parking can be challenging, so consider using ride-sharing services or public transport.
Street parking is available but often limited and metered. The nearest parking garages are typically a few blocks away.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk uphill from River Street, taking about 10-15 minutes depending on your pace.
Walking is the best way to experience Savannah's historic squares. Consider a guided walking tour to learn about their history.
Several bus routes stop near the square, making it accessible via Savannah's public transportation system.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Telfair Square is a public park and is free to enter and enjoy at any time.
Telfair Square is open to the public 24/7, though it's best enjoyed during daylight hours.
Yes, tickets are required for the Telfair Academy and Jepson Center, which are located on the square. You can purchase them online or at the museum entrances.
Telfair Square hosts various events throughout the year, including the Savannah Book Festival and occasional weddings. Check local event calendars for details.
Picnics are generally permitted in Savannah's squares, but be sure to clean up after yourself and respect the park's beauty.
📸 📸 Photography
The Girl Scout Monument and the Chambered Nautilus Monument offer unique photographic opportunities. The surrounding architecture and tree-lined paths also make for beautiful shots.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best natural light for photography, creating a warm, inviting glow.
Professional photography is generally allowed, but for larger events like weddings, permits might be required.
There are no specific restrictions on personal photography, but be mindful of others enjoying the space and any ongoing events.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both the square's expanse and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the monuments.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no restaurants directly within the square, the Jepson Center houses Urban Deli, offering light fare. Many dining options are within walking distance.
You'll find a variety of restaurants nearby, from casual cafes to upscale dining, along Broughton Street and surrounding areas.
Yes, you can bring your own food for a picnic, but remember to dispose of all trash properly.
Absolutely! Several highly-rated coffee shops are just a short stroll away, perfect for a morning coffee or afternoon pick-me-up.
Savannah is known for its Southern cuisine, including seafood, Lowcountry dishes, and classic comfort food.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack some snacks and drinks for a simple picnic under the trees. It's a good spot to rest before or after exploring the museums. Remember that parking can be tricky, so planning your transport in advance is key for a stress-free family outing.
🏛️ Art & History Buffs
Take time to appreciate the architectural styles of the surrounding buildings and the historical significance of the monuments. Consider joining a guided historical walking tour that includes Telfair Square to gain deeper insights into its past and its role in Savannah's development.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles and compositions. The Jepson Center's modern design also offers interesting photographic contrasts with the historic surroundings. Be prepared for potential crowds, especially during peak tourist times or events, and consider visiting during off-peak hours for more unobstructed shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Telfair Square
The square is bordered by significant institutions, including the Telfair Academy and the Jepson Center for the Arts, which house extensive collections of American and European art. This proximity to cultural landmarks underscores the square's role as a hub for arts and history. It has also served as a venue for important community events, such as the Savannah Book Festival, drawing crowds and highlighting its enduring importance to the city's social fabric.
Beyond its historical and cultural significance, Telfair Square offers a tranquil escape with its mature trees and shaded benches. It's a place where locals and visitors alike can relax, reflect, and soak in the timeless charm of Savannah. The presence of monuments like the one dedicated to the Girl Scouts of America adds layers of meaning to the space, commemorating important figures and movements.
Experiencing Telfair Square: Beyond the Monuments
The square is also a popular starting point for Savannah's iconic horse and carriage tours. Imagine the romance of a gentle clip-clop through the historic district, with Telfair Square as your picturesque departure point. For those seeking a more active experience, it's a pleasant walk from River Street, offering a gradual immersion into the city's historic core.
For a unique perspective, consider visiting during a local event. The Savannah Book Festival, for instance, transforms the square into a vibrant literary hub. Even on a regular day, the sounds of the city, the rustling leaves, and the distant church bells create a symphony of urban tranquility.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit