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This Georgia city is ranked the No. 4 best US travel destinations by Travel + Leisure

Georgia's Savannah Shines as No. 4 Best Travel Destination in Travel + Leisure's Latest Rankings

In a surprising yet well-deserved nod to Southern charm and historical allure, Savannah, Georgia, has secured the No. 4 spot on Travel + Leisure's prestigious list of the world's best travel destinations for 2025. The announcement, part of the magazine's annual World's Best Awards, highlights cities that captivate travelers with their unique blend of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Savannah's rise in the rankings underscores its timeless appeal, drawing visitors from around the globe who seek an authentic taste of the American South wrapped in elegance and mystery.

Travel + Leisure's rankings are determined through reader surveys, where thousands of avid travelers vote on their favorite spots based on criteria like sights and landmarks, culture, food, friendliness, shopping, and overall value. This year, Savannah edged out heavy hitters to claim its top position, trailing only behind international gems like Tokyo, Japan (No. 1), Cape Town, South Africa (No. 2), and Lisbon, Portugal (No. 3). The city's inclusion among such global icons speaks volumes about its ability to compete on an international stage, offering experiences that rival the vibrancy of bustling metropolises while maintaining a laid-back, hospitable vibe.

What makes Savannah stand out? At its core, the city is a living museum of American history, with roots stretching back to 1733 when it was founded by British general James Oglethorpe as the first city in the colony of Georgia. Its historic district, spanning 2.5 square miles, is one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the United States. Visitors are immediately enchanted by the 22 public squares, each a verdant oasis adorned with live oaks draped in Spanish moss, fountains, and monuments that tell stories of the past. Forsyth Park, the crown jewel, features a stunning white cast-iron fountain modeled after one in Paris, surrounded by azaleas that burst into color each spring.

Architecture enthusiasts flock to Savannah for its impeccably preserved antebellum homes, Victorian mansions, and Gothic Revival churches. The city's layout, designed in a grid pattern with those iconic squares, was revolutionary for its time and has influenced urban planning worldwide. Walking tours, often led by knowledgeable guides in period attire, delve into tales of pirates, ghosts, and the Civil War. Savannah's reputation as one of America's most haunted cities adds a thrilling layer—think midnight cemetery strolls in Bonaventure Cemetery, immortalized in John Berendt's bestselling book "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," which put the city on the literary map.

Beyond its historical facade, Savannah pulses with a vibrant cultural scene. The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) infuses the city with youthful energy, transforming old warehouses and factories into galleries, theaters, and studios. Art lovers can explore the SCAD Museum of Art, which houses contemporary works alongside historical artifacts, or attend the annual Savannah Music Festival, a two-week extravaganza featuring jazz, classical, and world music performances in intimate venues. The city's film industry is booming too, with productions like "Forrest Gump" and "The Last Song" using its picturesque streets as backdrops, making it a haven for cinephiles who embark on movie location tours.

No discussion of Savannah would be complete without its culinary prowess. The city has evolved into a foodie paradise, blending traditional Lowcountry fare with innovative twists. Signature dishes include shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and pralines—those sugary pecan confections that originated here. Iconic spots like The Olde Pink House, a restored 18th-century mansion turned restaurant, serve up Southern classics in an atmosphere of candlelit elegance. For a more casual vibe, the bustling City Market offers open-air dining with live music, where you can sample fresh seafood from the nearby Atlantic coast. Savannah's craft beer scene is on the rise, with breweries like Service Brewing Company and Southbound Brewing offering tours and tastings that highlight local ingredients. And let's not forget the cocktail culture—Savannah is home to the nation's first prohibition museum, where visitors can learn about the era's bootlegging history before sipping on era-inspired drinks.

The friendliness of Savannah's residents plays a huge role in its high ranking. Locals, known for their warm hospitality, often greet strangers with a smile and a story, embodying the Southern tradition of making everyone feel at home. This sense of community extends to the city's diverse neighborhoods, from the trendy Starland District with its street art and indie shops to the upscale Isle of Hope, where moss-covered oaks line the streets leading to the Intracoastal Waterway.

Nature lovers will find plenty to adore as well. Just a short drive from downtown, Tybee Island beckons with its sandy beaches, historic lighthouse, and opportunities for dolphin watching or kayaking through salt marshes. The Savannah River, which borders the city, offers scenic cruises and waterfront promenades lined with shops and eateries. For those seeking adventure, the nearby Okefenokee Swamp provides a glimpse into untamed wilderness, complete with alligator sightings and canoe trails.

Travel + Leisure readers praised Savannah for its affordability compared to other top destinations. With a range of accommodations from boutique inns in historic homes to modern hotels along the riverfront, it's possible to experience luxury without breaking the bank. Budget travelers appreciate the free trolley tours and the walkability of the historic district, where you can cover major sights on foot. The best time to visit? Spring (March to May) when the azaleas bloom and temperatures are mild, or fall (September to November) for fewer crowds and festivals like the Savannah Food & Wine Festival.

This ranking is more than just a pat on the back—it's a boost for Savannah's economy, which relies heavily on tourism. In recent years, the city has seen a surge in visitors, with millions flocking annually to its events, including the famous St. Patrick's Day parade, one of the largest in the U.S., where the streets turn green with revelers. However, city officials are mindful of sustainable growth, implementing measures to preserve historic sites and manage overtourism.

Savannah's No. 4 placement also reflects broader trends in travel preferences post-pandemic. Travelers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer a mix of relaxation, culture, and authenticity, away from overcrowded tourist traps. As one Travel + Leisure reader noted in the survey, "Savannah feels like stepping into a storybook—beautiful, welcoming, and full of surprises." This sentiment echoes why the city continues to enchant newcomers and repeat visitors alike.

For those planning a trip, start with a stroll through the squares, perhaps beginning at Chippewa Square where the famous "Forrest Gump" bench once sat. Dive into the Mercer Williams House Museum for a dose of intrigue, or take a riverboat cruise at sunset. Food tours are a must, guiding you through hidden gems and family-owned spots. And if you're into the supernatural, a ghost tour under the moonlight will leave you with chills and thrills.

In an era where travel is about meaningful experiences, Savannah delivers on all fronts. Its blend of history, hospitality, and hidden treasures makes it not just a destination, but a journey into the heart of the South. As Travel + Leisure's rankings affirm, this Georgia gem is poised to welcome even more wanderers in 2025 and beyond, proving that sometimes the best adventures are found in places where time seems to stand still, yet the energy is ever-evolving.

Savannah's story is one of resilience and reinvention. From its colonial beginnings to its role in the Civil Rights Movement—marked by sites like the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum—the city has layers that reward curious explorers. Modern additions, such as the Plant Riverside District, a redeveloped power plant turned entertainment hub with rooftop bars and live music, show how Savannah honors its past while embracing the future.

Economically, the ranking could spur further investment in infrastructure, like expanded bike paths and eco-friendly initiatives to protect the coastal ecosystem. Local businesses, from artisanal chocolatiers to boutique hotels, stand to benefit, creating jobs and fostering community pride.

Ultimately, what elevates Savannah to No. 4 is its intangible magic—the way the Spanish moss sways in the breeze, the sound of horse-drawn carriages on cobblestone streets, and the genuine connections formed over sweet tea on a porch. It's a place where history whispers, culture sings, and every visit feels like coming home. If you're plotting your next getaway, let Savannah's siren call guide you—it's a destination that promises to linger in your memories long after you've left its enchanting shores. (Word count: 1,248)

Read the Full USA TODAY Article at:
[ https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2025/07/18/travel-leisure-ranks-this-georgia-city-no-4-for-best-travel-destination/85255027007/ ]