Savannah with Kids: 15+ Family-Friendly Activities Under $50

TL;DR: The best family-friendly Savannah activities under $50. Explore Forsyth Park and the Historic District squares for free, visit the Georgia State Railroad Museum ($12/adults, kids under 3 free), take a dolphin tour to Tybee Island ($35/adults, $25/kids), walk River Street and the waterfront, tour the Savannah Children's Museum ($10/person), and grab ice cream at Leopold's. Mix free activities with one or two paid experiences to keep your family budget under control while experiencing the Hostess City's best attractions.

Can You Enjoy Savannah with Kids on a Budget?

Here's the truth about Savannah with kids: the city's best family experiences don't require emptying your wallet. While attractions like ghost tours and museums charge admission, Savannah's most memorable moments — Spanish moss-draped squares, river views, beach time at Tybee Island, and ice cream on a park bench — cost little to nothing.

We've mapped out the best family-friendly activities in Savannah organized by price point, from completely free to under $50 splurges. Whether you're planning a weekend trip or a week-long vacation, this guide helps you balance budget-conscious activities with a few special experiences worth the cost. The goal: maximum fun, minimal financial stress.

Budget tip for families: Focus your spending on 1-2 "wow" experiences (like a dolphin tour or food tour) and fill the rest of your days with Savannah's abundant free activities. The squares, parks, waterfront, and beaches don't charge admission, and they're often what kids remember most.

What Are the Best Free Activities for Kids in Savannah?

Savannah's Historic District is an outdoor playground that costs nothing to explore. The 22 parklike squares, waterfront promenades, and public parks offer hours of entertainment for active kids who need space to run and explore.

Forsyth Park: Savannah's Family Headquarters

Forsyth Park is ground zero for families in Savannah. This 30-acre urban park anchors the southern end of the Historic District with its iconic 1858 fountain, massive live oaks, and two separate playgrounds designed for different age groups.

The north playground caters to younger children (toddlers to age 6) with smaller slides, low climbing structures, and sandbox areas. The south playground challenges older kids with taller climbing equipment, swings, and adventure structures. Both playgrounds are shaded by ancient oaks — crucial during Savannah's hot summers.

What to do at Forsyth Park with kids:

Photograph the famous fountain (kids love running around the base)
Pack a picnic and claim a spot under the oak trees
Play on both playgrounds (they're at opposite ends of the park)
Walk the 1.2-mile perimeter path — perfect for bikes, scooters, or strollers
Watch for squirrels, birds, and occasional peacocks that wander through
Play frisbee, soccer, or catch on the open lawn areas

The park is open sunrise to midnight, though most families visit mornings (before the heat) or late afternoons (when it cools down). Street parking is usually available on surrounding streets, or park in the lot near the Fragrant Garden.

River Street and the Savannah Waterfront

Walking the cobblestone streets of River Street is completely free and endlessly entertaining for kids. The historic warehouses now house candy shops, toy stores, and ice cream parlors. Kids love watching massive cargo ships pass just yards away — Savannah's port is one of the busiest on the East Coast.

Free River Street activities:

Walk the cobblestones (once used as ballast on ships from Europe)
Watch cargo ships and riverboats pass by
Climb on the historic cannons and ship anchors displayed along the waterfront
Browse candy shops (looking is free; buying is tempting)
Take photos with the Waving Girl statue
Let kids run up and down the steep stairways connecting River Street to Bay Street above

River Street comes alive in the evenings with street performers and live music. It's stroller-friendly but the cobblestones are bumpy — younger kids may prefer walking. The River Street Marketplace has public restrooms.

Exploring the Historic District Squares

Savannah's 22 squares are free outdoor museums. Each square has its own character, monuments, and shady benches perfect for a snack break. Turn square-hopping into a scavenger hunt: how many fountains can you find? How many different monuments?

Kid-friendly squares to explore:

Chippewa Square — The "Forrest Gump bench" location (the bench is gone, but kids love the movie connection)
Johnson Square — The oldest square with food trucks most evenings
Wright Square — Has a massive boulder kids climb on
Monterey Square — Beautiful fountain and monuments

Bring a ball, frisbee, or bubbles. Many families do impromptu picnics on square benches. The squares are clustered together, so you can easily visit 4-5 in a single walk through the Historic District.

What Can Families Do at Tybee Island for Free?

Just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, Tybee Island offers free beach access and a laid-back island vibe perfect for families. The wide, sandy beaches have gentle waves ideal for young swimmers, and the water stays warm May through September.

Free Tybee Island activities:

Beach time — Public beach access is free everywhere on the island. The busiest section is near the pier (more amenities), but walk north or south for quieter stretches.
Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion — Walk out on the pier for free. Kids love watching for dolphins, pelicans, and people fishing below.
North Beach — The quietest beach on Tybee with calmer waters and fewer crowds. Great for shell collecting.
Back River Beach — Faces the marshes instead of the ocean. No waves, making it perfect for very young children.

Parking at Tybee costs $2.50/hour at meters or $15/day at the paid lot near the pier. Pack your own food, drinks, beach toys, and sunscreen to avoid Tybee's premium prices. Public restrooms and outdoor showers are available at the main beach near the pier.

What Are the Best Budget-Friendly Paid Activities (Under $15/Person)?

When you're ready to spend a little, Savannah offers excellent family museums and attractions that won't strain your budget. These experiences typically cost $10-15 per person with kids under 3-5 often free.

Georgia State Railroad Museum

If your kids love trains (and what kid doesn't?), the Georgia State Railroad Museum is non-negotiable. Located in the historic Central of Georgia Railway Roundhouse, this hands-on museum lets kids explore dozens of vintage train cars, engines, and railway equipment.

Admission: $12/adults, $6.50/kids (ages 2-12), free for children under 2. Open Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 11am-5pm.

Kids can climb aboard locomotives, ring the bells, explore cabooses, and learn how steam engines worked. The museum offers short train rides on select days (check schedule). Budget 1.5-2 hours for your visit.

Savannah Children's Museum

The Savannah Children's Museum is designed specifically for hands-on learning through play. Located at Tricentennial Park, this interactive museum features a maze, sensory exhibits, outdoor play areas, and themed programming daily.

Admission: $10/person (ages 2 and up), free for children under 2. Open Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday 11am-4pm.

Highlights include the outdoor maze, historic train car, giant reading tree, and rotating exhibits. The museum's resident mascots — Tippy the Tortoise and Pogo the Turtle — make appearances during programming. This museum is perfect for kids ages 2-10.

Tybee Island Light Station and Museum

Climbing Georgia's tallest lighthouse is a rite of passage for Savannah-visiting families. The 178-step climb to the top rewards you with panoramic views of Tybee Island, the Atlantic Ocean, and the coastal marshes.

Admission: $12/adults, $10/kids (ages 6-17), free for children under 6. Open daily 9am-5:30pm (last admission 4:30pm).

The museum at the base covers the lighthouse's history since 1736. Kids need to be tall enough to safely climb the steep spiral stairs — the lighthouse recommends age 6 and up. The climb is strenuous but worth it for the views.

What Family Activities in Savannah Cost $25-$50 Per Person?

When you're ready for a splurge-worthy experience, these activities create the memories your kids will talk about for years. They're worth the cost — but you probably only need one or two during your trip.

Dolphin Tours at Tybee Island

A dolphin watching cruise is consistently rated the #1 outdoor activity on Tybee Island — and for good reason. The coastal waters around Tybee are home to hundreds of resident bottlenose dolphins, and sightings are virtually guaranteed.

Captain Derek's Dolphin Adventure offers the best family experience. Captain Derek has been running tours for decades and guarantees dolphin sightings on every trip. His small boats (maximum 30 passengers) get you closer to the wildlife than larger tour boats.

Cost: Approximately $35/adults, $25/kids (ages 2-12), free for children under 2. Tours run multiple times daily and last 90 minutes.

Dolphins often swim alongside the boat, jumping and playing in the wake. You'll also see pelicans, herons, and other coastal wildlife. Kids love the up-close encounters, and Captain Derek's narration is educational without being boring.

Alternative option: Dolphin Magic Tours offers similar experiences with family-friendly guides and educational commentary about the coastal ecosystem.

Family-Friendly Food Tours

Food tours teach kids about Savannah's culinary culture while sampling generous tastings at local restaurants. It's part history lesson, part walking tour, part multi-course meal.

Savannah Taste Experience offers the most popular food tour in Savannah (4.9 stars, 1,200+ reviews). The 3-hour walking tour visits 5-6 local restaurants with tastings at each stop. Guides weave in Savannah history, architecture, and food culture.

Cost: Around $65/person (kids typically same price as adults). Tours run morning and afternoon.

This works best for kids ages 8 and up who can walk 1-2 miles and try new foods. The tastings are substantial — you won't need lunch or dinner afterward. Vegetarian options available with advance notice.

Riverboat Cruises

A cruise on Savannah's iconic paddlewheel riverboat is a classic family experience. Savannah Riverboat Cruises offers family-friendly sightseeing tours, dinner cruises, and Sunday brunch cruises aboard an authentic paddlewheel boat.

Sightseeing cruise cost: Approximately $30/adults, $18/kids (ages 3-12), free for children under 3. Tours last about an hour.

The narrated cruise covers Savannah's port history, passes massive cargo ships, and offers air-conditioned indoor seating (crucial in summer). The dinner cruises include live entertainment and a buffet but cost more — around $70/adults, $35/kids.

How Can Families Eat Well in Savannah Without Overspending?

Savannah dining doesn't have to blow your budget. Mix affordable family favorites with one or two nicer meals during your trip.

Budget-Friendly Family Restaurants

Zunzi's serves South African-inspired sandwiches and wraps that have a cult following. The Conquistador (marinated chicken with their secret sauce) is legendary. Expect to spend $10-12 per person. Cash only, no seating, but the food is incredible.

Clary's Cafe is a classic diner serving breakfast all day. Kids love the pancakes and milkshakes, parents appreciate the $8-12 price point. Featured in "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil."

Crystal Beer Parlor has been serving Savannah since 1933. The kids' menu is affordable, the portions are generous, and the crab stew is famous. Expect $12-18 per person.

Splurge-Worthy Family Restaurants

When you want a nicer meal, these restaurants welcome families without requiring formal behavior:

The Pirates' House is touristy but genuinely fun for kids. Built in 1753, it's one of the oldest buildings in Georgia with multiple themed dining rooms and alleged pirate ghosts. The honey-pecan fried chicken is excellent. Expect $15-25 per person.

Leopold's Ice Cream isn't a restaurant, but it's a Savannah pilgrimage. This 1919 ice cream parlor serves homemade ice cream using original family recipes. Expect lines, but they move fast. $5-8 per person for generous scoops.

What Are the Best Money-Saving Tips for Savannah Families?

Smart planning lets you do more while spending less:

Visit free attractions first — Start with Forsyth Park, the squares, and River Street. Gauge what your kids enjoy before spending money.
Pick ONE paid highlight per day — A dolphin tour OR a museum OR a food tour. Don't try to pack in multiple paid activities.
Pack snacks and water — Savannah gets hot and humid. Carry water bottles and snacks to avoid $5 bottles at attractions.
Eat one big meal out, pack the rest — Splurge on dinner at a nice restaurant, but pack breakfast and lunch from a grocery store.
Drive to Tybee — Parking costs $15/day, but you save money packing your own beach supplies versus renting on-site.
Book tours online in advance — Many companies offer 10-15% discounts for online bookings versus walk-up purchases.
Stay outside the Historic District — Hotels 2-3 miles from downtown cost half as much. You'll drive or Uber in, but the savings are substantial.

Insider tip: Many Savannah museums offer free admission days or discounted rates during specific hours. The Savannah Children's Museum participates in "Museums For All" — families with EBT cards get $3 admission instead of $10.

What's the Best 3-Day Savannah Itinerary Under $150 Per Person?

Here's a realistic family itinerary balancing free activities with a few paid highlights:

Day 1: Free Exploration

Morning: Forsyth Park playgrounds and fountain photos (free)
Lunch: Pack a picnic or grab Zunzi's sandwiches ($12)
Afternoon: Walk the Historic District squares — Chippewa, Johnson, Wright ($0)
Evening: River Street at sunset, watch cargo ships (free)
Dinner: Crystal Beer Parlor ($18/person)

Day 1 cost per person: ~$30

Day 2: Tybee Island Beach Day

Morning: Drive to Tybee Island (parking $15/day)
Beach time at North Beach or main beach (free)
Lunch: Pack sandwiches and snacks from grocery store ($8/person)
Afternoon: Captain Derek's Dolphin Tour ($30/person average)
Walk the Tybee Pier (free)
Dinner: Beach picnic or casual spot ($12/person)

Day 2 cost per person: ~$50

Day 3: Museums and Culture

Morning: Georgia State Railroad Museum ($10/person average)
Lunch: Clary's Cafe ($12/person)
Afternoon: Savannah Children's Museum ($10/person)
Evening: Walk Forsyth Park at sunset (free)
Dessert: Leopold's Ice Cream ($7/person)

Day 3 cost per person: ~$39

Total 3-day cost per person: $119 (well under $150, leaving room for souvenirs or an extra splurge)

Are Ghost Tours Appropriate for Children?

Savannah's famous ghost tours range from family-friendly to adults-only. If your kids are ages 8 and up and enjoy spooky stories, a ghost tour can be a highlight of your trip.

Family-friendly ghost tour options:

Ghost City Tours offers daytime "Grave Tales" tours that tone down the scares while still delivering historical ghost stories. Good for kids 6 and up.
Hearse Ghost Tours is more novelty than scary — riding in a hearse is fun for most kids without being traumatizing.
Genteel & Bard is theatrical but not gratuitously scary. Best for kids 10 and up who appreciate good storytelling.

Avoid for young kids: Pub crawl ghost tours (alcohol-focused) and late-night "adults-only" tours that include explicit historical content.

Check tour descriptions carefully — most companies clearly mark which tours are family-appropriate. Evening tours (7-8pm start) work better than late-night tours for keeping kids alert and engaged.

Plan Your Family Trip

Stay in the Historic District to walk to most attractions. For Tybee Island day trips, you'll want a rental car.

→ Find Family Hotels in Savannah

→ Rent a Car for Tybee Island

Planning your Savannah family adventure? Browse our guide to the best family-friendly restaurants in Savannah, explore boat and dolphin tours perfect for kids, and discover more Savannah attractions recommended by locals who know the Hostess City best.

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