Editor’s Note: This is the fourth installment in a weeklong series profiling last-minute spring break trip ideas. Throughout the week, the destinations will get closer to Athens, for even the most last-minute planners.

Athens to Savannah 225 miles, about 4 hours by car

The beauty of the old city, as many residents willingly share, is that Savannah still has too much to tell. 

Obscurity and rumors mix with sweet Southern gossip to weave tales, some true, some exaggeration, that continually draw visitors from all over the world.  

For Georgia residents, Savannah is waiting right in our backyard. 

 Yes, the true story behind “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” fatefully occurred in Mercer House on Monterey Square. 

“Forrest Gump” was filmed watching a feather float down from the sky on a bench downtown and Uga, our University’s beloved bulldog mascot, stays with the Seiler family in his own beautiful historic home in Savannah.

  While there are plenty of designated tours, the city was originally designed on a grid pattern, broken up with uniquely scenic squares and parks. 

Every turn reveals something old and something new, including historic homes, funky art shops and one-of-a-kind finds. The easiest way to discover Savannah is study a map and make your own tour. 

EAT:

The legendary Pirate’s House, the oldest establishment in Savannah located at 20 East Broad Street, offers a “Legendary Southern Luncheon Buffet” for just under $14. 

Opened in 1753, the restaurant claims it was the watering hole of pirates from all seven seas.

For any sweet tooth cravings, stop by River Street Sweets at 13 East River Street for a praline, homemade fudge and old-fashioned candies. 

STAY:

Savannah Pensione, located at 304 East Hall Street directly in the Historic District, is reasonably priced and a good choice when on a budget in this semi-luxury resort area. Prices start at $25 per person for a shared room of three or more and $45-65 for a private room.

PLAY:

Savannah itself feels like one big shopping district, but there is a method to the madness. River Street is a good place to start, but try exploring City Market, Factor’s Walk and Broughton Street. 

The old and eclectic reside right next to each other, from exclusive designer shops to antiques to bars for honey tasting. 

Look for Shop SCAD, located at 340 Bull Street, a gallery store that sells artwork and designs by students, faculty, staff and alumni of the Savannah College of Art and Design. 

If the beach is your scene, drive an extra 20 minutes to discover the serene beauty of Tybee Island. 

Known as Savannah Beach to the locals, the untouched nature of the island provides a pristine 3-mile beach, budget-friendly places to stay such as beach cottages and locally-known good eats like The Breakfast Club, none of which should be missed if you’re going to Savannah.