Visiting Savannah, GA in May: Things to Do, Reasons for Visiting, and More

The months of March to July capture the city of Savannah through a perfect lens. The city is draped in azalea blooms and miles and miles of beautiful flowers. This is also the time to come and see all the joyful festivals flourishing in the city. Because of this, there's an overarching sense of possibility of things you can do in Savannah in May. While you could spend weeks in this delightful city and barely scratch the surface, there are ways to make the most out of your visit. 

To make it all easier for you, I did a little digging and curated a list of things you must add to your Savannah bucket list, and (hopefully) answered all the questions you might have about your visit! Here is a repository of everything you need to know about visiting Savannah, Georgia in May.

Things To Do In Savannah In May

Witness Life Blooming in the Bonaventure Cemetery 

Adding a cemetery to your itinerary might seem a little unconventional, but trust me when I say it's not your typical cemetery. Bonaventure is a reminder of not just death, but also life. Amidst the hundred acres of tombs and mementos of the lives lost, lie evergreen symbols of life and rebirth from the majestic oaks and pines to their floral companions such as the blooming azaleas. Nestled just outside of the Savannah Historic District, this place is a poem composed for Mother Nature.

Daniella Garcia / Unsplash

Promenade the City with Some Spirits

When you were planning your Savannah trip, you must have heard about the city's ghostly side. Many say that no city in America is more haunted than this. But hearing bone-chilling tales of spirits and phantoms is different from walking in the same town as these other-worldly beings. So while you're there, why not take a ghost tour? There are walking tours where you're sure to run into something paranormal and yet, fantastical. You'll also have plenty of chances for grave encounters, trolley tours, ghost hunts, and tours to Savannah's underground. Come and uncover the most morbid secrets of the city! 

Fantasize in Forsyth Park

For a deeply intimate experience in Savannah, visit Forsyth Park and lose yourself to its lush beauty. There's a lot to see here (not just in May, but in all months and seasons), so it's best to give this park a day or two of exploration. Wander and daydream through thirty acres of breathtaking landscapes embellished with floral blooms and Spanish moss covering live oaks like mesh bridal veils. You'll encounter a Parisian-inspired Forsyth Fountain, The Garden of Fountain, and The Amphitheater for some open-stage live spectacles.

Philip Arambula / Unsplash

Make Waves on Tybee Island 

May is the warmest month of April, and Savannah is also predisposed to a change in the weather. This calls for a beach day on Tybee Island, nestled just 20 minutes away from the Historic District of Savannah. Feel the time slow down as the salt air wraps around you. Stroll through the sands of the three miles of beaches, or make a splash in the waters. Taste some freshly caught seafood under the cool shelter of the trees at the Crab Shack or unwind on a sunset cruise—the wonders of Tybee Island never cease! 

Explore Savannah's River Street

The River Street abounds with historical sites and memorials, from the African-American Monument and the World War II Monument to the Waving Girl Statue and the Olympic Cauldron. After a deep dive into the past, grab a river-soaked bite at one of the street's rooftop bars, like Rocks on the Roof. Then, soak up the beautiful view of the Savannah River aboard a relaxing cruise and let yourself be carried away into a realm of imagination! 

Immerse Yourself in Scottish Culture at the Savannah Scottish Games

The Savannah Scottish Games are a cultural extravaganza and a celebration of Scottish heritage. Set amidst the picture-perfect terrain of Bethesda Academy, this May-exclusive annual event is an affair of Celtic tunes, highland dancing, and athletic prowess. In the thick of the camaraderie of clans, you'll be staggered by amazing feats of strength such as telephone poles being hurled in the air. A medley of family-friendly activities also abound, from sheep herding to falconry. There's more…but you'll have to come and see for yourself! 

Soak up the Dramatics at Savannah’s Theaters

If you're an escapist like me, you have to see the venues for performing arts in Savannah. There's always something going on, and naturally, there's always room for more entertainment. If you have a fondness for music, catch Verdi’s Requiem at The Lucas Theatre for the Performing Arts. If comedy's your thing, The Pickle at Front Porch Improv Theatre is perfect for you! If you're into variety shows, book tickets for Savannah Live at the Savannah Theatre. Still not satiated? There's an Art & Soul Music Festival down at City Market, completely free of charge. Come and sway to the tunes of live music, marvel at art demonstrations, and do so much more! 

FAQs

What's the weather like in Savannah in May? 

May is the month when you notice late spring fading into the early signs of summer. Savannah in May is marked by slightly warm weather with an average high temperature of 29°C while the average low temperature (17°C) is pleasantly cool.

Benjamin Disinger / Unsplash

Is May a good time to visit Savannah?

Anytime from March through May is a good time of year to visit Savannah. Flowers bloom, festivals abound, and if you feel hot, you can cool off on the beach or eat Savannah’s homemade ice cream. 

What are some reasons to visit Savannah in May?

Although Savannah is comfortably warm year-round, May (because of the transition of spring to summer) is the perfect month to start going to the beach. There are free art and music festivals, 5k races, ghost tours, and Old Town Trolley Tours to immerse yourself in the culture and heritage of the city. You'll see historic landmarks, house museums, monuments, and things of wonder!

What to wear in Savannah in May?

Savannah in May sees lots of days with an abundance of sunshine, so flowy, cotton dresses are your best bet for dressing comfortably for your trip. If you're a pant-wearer, choose lightweight pants or shorts and pair them with loose, breezy shirts. Choose footwear for comfort, not for fashion (I know high heels look beautiful but they're not practical for long trips!). Also, don't forget some sunscreen!