As one of the South's most beautiful cities, Savannah is a great place to experience some good old fashioned southern hospitality.

The city of Savannah is the capital of the state of Georgia and is also the largest city in Cantham County. This truly is a city where history resonates into the present day, which is most evident through its strong architecture and historic buildings.

The hospitality the locals offer here is unlike anywhere else in the country and this is probably why it was formerly known as the "Hostess City of the South". A rich culture, arts, dance and music scene will also make you feel involved and will offer you the holiday experience of a lifetime.

The downtown area of Savannah is also regarded as one of the largest National Historic Landmark districts in the US, making history here no longer a thing of the past.

Savannah is also an ideal base for exploration of the surrounding islands and the beautiful Savannah Riverfront. There is more than meets the eye to this amazing city, so why not visit and stay a while because once you do, you will uncover a wealth of activities and attractions that will make you never want to leave.

1. Savannah History Museum

Although the history of this unique city resonates in the very atmosphere, it can be further experienced at its best at the Savannah History Museum. This vessel of the past is housed within the old Central of Georgia Railway passenger shed, which is actually a National Historic Landmark that was built in the 1950's and 1960's.

The museum is home to more than 10,000 artifacts, which makes it the largest collection of artifacts in the entire coastal region. A showcase of the city's history since its founding in 1733 will take you on a journey through time that will enchant, entice and excite you. While you are here be sure to check out interesting pieces such as Forrest Gump's bench and one of Johnny Mercer's Oscar awards.

This museum is perfect for all lovers of the past, and a wide variety of interesting and unique artifacts is sure to make you feel right at home.

2. Savannah Riverboat Cruises

Since Savannah is a river town, it only seems fitting that you pay a visit to the river banks and embark on a cruise on its calm waters. The best way to discover every bend of the river and the beautiful buildings of the city is to venture on a journey with The River Street Riverboat Company. The cruise can be booked either for lunch, dinner or brunch, or purely for sightseeing purposes. However, to gain a whole new perspective of Savannah by experiencing the glow of the city lights make sure you book the Moonlight cruise.

Whichever cruise you take you can be assured that the history of Savannah will shine through its beautiful sights, sounds and smells, which will tantalize your senses.

3. Oatland Island

A trip to Oatland Island will offer you a wildlife experience unlike any other. Savannah's most popular zoo set out with an aim to provide guests with memorable experiences to help them make stronger connections to the natural world. This aim is undoubtedly met through fantastic exhibits that include Wolf Wilderness, Alligator Wetlands, Hoofed Animals, Predators of Georgia and Birds of Prey.

The diversity in wildlife here is sure to keep the whole family happy and may even teach you a thing or two about your favorite animals.

4. Savannah Tour of Homes and Gardens

For those of you out there whole love beautiful homes and manicured gardens, Savannah will seem like heaven to you. This stunning city is home to the most valuable collection of 18th and 19th century architecture in the state, if not the whole country. There are 6 historic neighborhoods in total, which means there is almost one for every day of the week. The tours you can take through Savannah Tour of Homes and Gardens, is completely self-guided and can take up to three hours to complete. This gives you the opportunity to explore every nook and cranny of each estate and to enjoy your beautiful surrounds at your own pace.

5. Meinhardt Vineyards and Winery

Any holiday away just isn't complete without visiting a winery or vineyard of some sort. The Meinhardt Vineyards and Winery is Southeast Georgia's first winery and is essential to visit while you are so close. While you taste all of the lovely local wines, you kids can wander down to the small assortment of farm animals that call this vineyard home. Alternatively, why not take a leisurely stroll through the pleasant vineyards here that will take your breath away with their simple beauty and size.

Savannah is an ideal holiday destination that the whole family can enjoy. However if you just want to visit for a couple's getaway, it is perfect for that also. So why not give Savannah a chance, because once you do you will wonder why you didn't do it years ago.

Christine Barton