If there’s one Southern city built for spooky season, it’s Savannah. Cobblestone streets glisten under moss-draped oaks, every square seems to hold a secret, and ghost stories swirl as freely as the cocktails. October here isn’t just about pumpkins and costumes, it’s about stepping into a living, breathing Gothic novel.
Whether you’re in it for the history, the haunts, or the seasonal fun, Savannah knows how to put on a show. Consider this your ultimate guide to spooky season in Georgia’s most haunted city.
Where to Stay: Haunted & Historic
The Marshall House: This 1851 beauty is one of Savannah’s most haunted hotels. Civil War soldiers were once treated here, and guests still report ghostly footsteps and flickering lights. Insider tip: request a room on the second floor for prime paranormal encounters.
The Kehoe House: A Gilded Age mansion turned romantic inn. Whispers of children’s laughter echo in the halls, though the warm hospitality makes the eerie edge feel more charming than chilling.
Hamilton-Tuner Inn: Rumored inspiration for Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Expect creaky staircases, flickering chandeliers, and a past full of Savannah intrigue.
The Gastonian: Less haunted, more hauntingly beautiful. This adults-only B&B is perfect if you love the historic vibe but want to sleep peacefully.
Perry Lane Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel: If you’re after a different kind of spirit, book a room at this charming Historic District stay, where a chic rooftop bar offers some of the city’s best views.
Where to Eat & Drink: Storied Dining Spots
The Pirates’ House: Established in 1753, this tavern once served rowdy sailors (and maybe a few pirates). Order the pecan-crusted chicken and ask your server about the tunnels rumored to lead to the river.
The Olde Pink House Restaurant: A Savannah icon with ghostly dinner guests. Dine on shrimp and grits in candlelit rooms where the past feels very present.
The Grey: Housed in a restored Greyhound station, it’s less spooky and more spectacular. The only thing scary about this spot is how good Mashama Bailey’s James Beard Award–winning cooking is.
17Hundred90 Inn & Restaurant: Haunted by a lovesick ghost named Anna, this spot serves hearty Southern fare and stiff drinks. Try the key lime pie shot — if you dare.
What do Do: Haunts & Halloween Fun
Ghost Tours: You can’t do Savannah in October without one. For kitschy fun, book the Hearse Ghost Ride and cruise around town in a real hearse, or hop aboard a trolly for the Ghosts & Gravestones tour. For a classic, spine-tingling stroll, go with a lantern-lit walking tour.
Haunted Pub Crawl: If you prefer your ghost stories with a side of spirits, check out one of Savannah’s haunted pub crawls. Even if you’re not into the spooky stuff, these tours tend to take you to local haunts and hometown favorite bars you wouldn’t necessarily find on your own.
Bonaventure Cemetary: Famous for its angel statues and Spanish moss, it’s hauntingly beautiful in the golden light of late afternoon. Bring comfy shoes — this place sprawls.
Sorrel-Weed House: Known for dark energy and chilling EVP recordings. Guided tours dive deep into its haunted history.
Wormsloe Historic Site: Not haunted, but that mile-long oak alley feels otherworldly, especially at dusk.
Savannah Theatre: Their Halloween specials mix camp and creepy, making for a fun, less-scary night out. Come for the “Ghosted” Improv Comedy show and stay for a tour of the 200-year-old building and its many spooky stories
River Street: Lively by day, eerie by night. Duck into a pub, shop for pralines, and keep an eye out — you might not be the only one strolling the waterfront.
When to Go & Other Spooky Season Insider Tips
Best Time to Visit: Mid to late October for peak spooky vibes, mild temps, and seasonal events. Halloween weekend books up fast, so be sure to reserve early.
Weather: Expect highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s. Perfect for evening ghost tours; pack layers for breezy nights.
What to Pack: Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestones + ghost tours = sore feet), a light jacket, and maybe a portable phone charger for all those haunted photo ops.
Booking Advice: Haunted hotels sell out months in advance, especially during spooky season. If you miss out, check boutique inns in the Historic District and add a ghost tour for your nightly chills.
Local Tip: Some tours allow you to bring drinks along. Grab a to-go cup (Savannah is famously open-container friendly in the Historic District) and sip your way through the haunts.