Tour Civil War Savannah in One Day

In one day, you will be able to visit several of the historic sites that played key roles in the important port city of Savannah's Civil War history. If you visit each of the stops, you will get a chance to see Fort McAllister, Fort Pulaski, Fort James Jackson, historic and beautiful downtown Savannah, and the Green-Meldrim House, where Union General William T. Sherman had his headquarters in the winter of 1864-65. 

Before you go:

• Print or download the Tour Map.
• Watch the Civil War Animated Map.
• Learn about the Savannah Campaign during the Civil War.
• Learn about the Battle of Fort McAllister.
• Learn about William T. Sherman.

Stop #1: Fort McAllister

Time: 1.5 hours

Details: http://gastateparks.org/fortmcallister

With the capture of this fort in 1864, Sherman guaranteed an open supply line for his troops in their eventually successful quest to capture Savannah. 

What to do:

• Explore the earthworks, cannons, barracks, and other defenses.
• Check out the artifacts and exhibits located in the museum. 

Stop #2: Fort Pulaski

Time: 1 hour

Details: https://www.nps.gov/fopu/index.htm

Union forces captured this fort in April 1862, ensuring Union control over this vital Southern port and keeping Savannah from exporting cotton and other military and civilian goods. 

What to do:

• Explore the fort’s grounds and interpretive markers.
• Check out the indoor exhibits on Civil War military technology. 

Stop #3: Fort James Jackson

Time: 1 hour

Details: http://www.chsgeorgia.org/OFJ

Features exhibits and artifacts from Savannah’s Civil War history, including weaponry from the CSS Georgia. 

What to do:

• Explore the fort and grounds. 

Stop #4: Historic Savannah 

Time: 2-3 hours

Details: https://visitsavannah.com/historic-landmark-district

Explore the beautiful historic structures of Savannah, many of which date from the antebellum era.

What to do:

• Stop by a Visitor Center and pick up a walking guide. There are also specific Civil War walking tours you can take. 

Stop #5: Green-Meldrim House/Sherman's Headquarters

Time: 30 minutes

Details: https://greenmeldrimhouse.org/

This mansion served as Sherman’s headquarters during the winter of 1864-65. 

What to do:

• Tour the house and grounds.