Most Romantic Things to Do in Savannah

A visit to a cemetery might not immediately come to mind as a romantic outing, but Bonaventure is no ordinary cemetery. The storied 150-year-old resting place of many of Savannah's glitterati, perched on a bluff overlooking the Wilmington River was once the site of Bonaventure Plantation. Striking sculptures, monuments and elaborate burial vaults adorn the 160-acres dotted by graceful, moss-draped live oak trees. Visitors can explore mid-19th century gravesites with breathtaking views of the nearby river, or venture further to the Greenwich section and hike the area with its reflection pond, river and marsh. The newer Greenwich section was once the scene of early 20th-century silent films.

Tucked into the cellar beneath the venerable Olde Pink House Restaurant, Planters Tavern is one of Savannah's most romantic late-night spots. The 18th-century Georgian mansion and former residence once housed Georgia's first bank. Remnants of its history can be seen throughout - including exposed brick walls, romantic fireplaces - and the bank vault, now home to the Planters wine cellar. The cozy bar offers a good selection of wine and cocktails, and food may be ordered from the upstairs menu. Tables tend to fill up quickly, but the staff will serve you wherever you sit. A piano player encourages sing-alongs.

You'll find some of Savannah's finest French cuisine in this Parisian-style bistro and adjoining gastropub on Whitaker Street. Tucked into the of a former Irish pub in the Historic District, the restaurant's décor, rich wood and tiled floors are the perfect backdrop for the exceptional dining experience you'll enjoy. Bistro dining takes place on the main level, or downstairs in the wine cellar, a romantic brick-lined area offering the perfect spot for a rendezvous. As you might expect, the menu features escargots, pâté and mussels as well as a rich roster of delicacies including as crêpes aux crevettes (crepes with shrimp), cassoulet maison (casserole with white beans and sausage) and other flavorful dishes. An extensive wine list and craft beers provide the perfect accompaniment.

What could be more romantic than checking into a spa with your partner and indulging in a couple's massage and other soothing treatments? European flair combines with blissful pampering for both of you in the upscale Sweet Water Spa. Luxurious therapies include nail care, massage, skincare treatments and facials - all of them (except for pedicures) available for both men and women. The recently introduced "Soy Delicious" offers a massage with a soy based candle. The melted wax of the scented candle serves as an anti-oxidant moisturizer and when your massage is done, you get to take the rest of the candle home with you.

Tucked into the heart of the Historic District, the luxurious 19th-century Hamilton-Turner Inn was recently named one of the Most Romantic Hotels in America by Travel & Leisure magazine. Each of the 17 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites captures the unique personality and hospitality of Savannah, offering a perfect romantic perch from which to tour this genteel city. Lavish amenities, a tasty complimentary breakfast - served in a lovely dining room overlooking the square - an afternoon reception with wine and yummy hors d'oeuvres, as well as late night Port and turn-down service are an added draw. This charming B&B is conveniently located close to many of the city's most captivating attractions.

Possibly the sweetest place in town may just be the dark, cozy and slightly sinful, Lulu's Chocolate Bar. Even if you don't have a sweet tooth, a visit to this award-winning dessert and specialty drink restaurant is a "must." A tempting selection of tasty treats includes white chocolate-chip, vanilla bean and Baileys cheesecakes, Lulu's signature strawberry suspension cake, flourless chocolate torte and pies including praline pecan, chocolate peanut butter and French silk. Drinks range from wine and cocktails to decadent creations like the Lulutini, a chocolaty take on a martini made with chocolate Vodka, Meletti Ciocolatto Liqueur, crème de cacao and real chocolate.

Savannah is dotted with romantic sites, but romance is around every corner the city' network of lush parks with their winding trails shaded by canopies of live oaks, dogwoods and blooming magnolias. When Gen. James Edward Oglethorpe founded Savannah in 1733, he planned the city around four open squares, based on a series of grids. Today, there are 22 scenic squares, showcasing Savannah's past with beautiful monuments and often lined by historic mansions. The oldest, Johnson Square, was the first to be laid out by Gen. Oglethorpe and is home to the monument to Revolutionary War hero Gen. Nathanael Green. Chippewa Square, laid out in 1815 honors Oglethorpe with a magnificent bronze equestrian statue. The most beautiful square in the city is Monterey Square, located on Bull Street, where a monument honoring Count Casimir Pulaski is located. The squares celebrate Savannah's history, yet have become a popular spot for weddings.

The recipient of numerous awards, this romantic restaurant is a favorite with visitors and locals alike. Tucked into a restored 20th-century mansion in the Thomas Square Streetcar neighborhood, this charming eatery offers tender meats and fresh, local seafood and produce, showcased on a Southern-influenced menu. Memorable choices include a double Berkshire pork chop with five cheese macaroni and apple-cabbage slaw and Harris Ranch pepper crusted beef tenderloin with Madeira cream sauce and creamed spinach-feta torte. The wine list is impressive and sommeliers are available to help you select the perfect pairing. Desserts are a "must," starting with their famous Savannah cream cake (a sherry-laced angel food with berry and custard sauce), or a chocolate pecan almond torte or cream cheese tart.

Situated just two blocks from Forsyth Park in the Historic District, this genteel B&B is comprised of two adjoining 19th-century Regency-Italianate-style mansions. The AAA Four Diamond Award-winning boutique gem offers 17 beautifully appointed guest rooms - named for prominent people from Savannah's past. Each room features private baths with luxury bath products and fluffy robes, and rich antique. Wood-burning fireplaces, combined with modern-day amenities such as WiFi and flat-screen TVs are added perks. For an even more romantic touch, order a complimentary customized breakfast, delivered to your room on a silver tray. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres and wine in the afternoon, followed by desserts and cordials in the evenings, promise the perfect finale to your day.

There's no more romantic way to be transported through Savannah's charming sites then tucked into a horse-drawn carriage enveloped by the "clip-clop" of a gentle steed and the soothing banter of your guide pointing things out along the way. Carriage Tours of Savannah - the city's first carriage tour company - explores the Historic District, as well as offering mesmerizing evening ghost tours. You and your significant other can snuggle up and take in the city's charming scenes with a customized tour, which can include a picnic basket and bottle of wine. Tours last 50 minutes. Reservations can be made ahead of time online or by phone and should be made 48 hours in advance if booking online. Fees for special pick-ups for customized tours range from $15 - $50, depending on the location in the Historic District.