Photo Credit: All photos by Lizzie Wilcox unless otherwise noted
If you haven't been to the Savannah Convention Center recently, you practically haven't been at all. In February, the venue completed a $276 million expansion, doubling the amount of meeting space to 200,000 square feet. The project added a 40,000-square-foot ballroom overlooking the Savannah River and historic district, a 900-space parking garage, and 14 meeting rooms — bringing the total to 27. This upgrade gives groups all the more reason to meet in the Hostess City. The following are things to do in the Georgia city beyond the meeting.
Farm-fresh fare
In Historic Savannah, a quieter nook of the city, Cha Bella specializes in farm-to-table food, sourcing almost all ingredients from within a day's drive. With a constantly evolving menu to align with seasonal ingredients, no two dining experiences are the same. However, if the pork chop or cacio e pepe happen to be available when you visit, we can't recommend these dishes enough. They can also host private events in their dining room with a tablescape straight out of a Swift-Kelce engagement. If you can't make it to the restaurant, note that Cha Bella also offers catering services for your events.
Making scents
A candle bar and boutique, Sea Love Savannah
offers a scent-blending experience for both individuals and groups. To
start, pick up to three fragrances from the selection of more than 100,
as well as a jar. Then combine the aromas with the hot wax while sipping
on a complimentary beverage. Candles take two hours to cool before they
are ready to take away, or they can be shipped to your home.
Participants also receive 10 percent off at the boutique.
Java love
Veteran-founded and -operated Black Rifle Coffee Company
has a Savannah location in the riverside district. If you can only make
one trip here during your visit, get the Savannah Bee latte, made with
local honey, cinnamon, espresso and your milk of choice. We've been
thinking about this coffee for months.
A walk in the park
Covering 30 acres, Forsyth Park is Savannah's oldest, dating back to
1841. Its claim to fame is being the filming location for the iconic
bench scenes in Forrest Gump. There's much to do here — aside from
sharing your life story with strangers — from meandering along the paths
and taking a tour, to refueling at the park location of Collins Quarter, a popular local café and restaurant.
Photo Credit: Terry AllenUp on the roof
Atop the JW Marriott Plant Riverside District,
Myrtle and Rose Rooftop Bar provides an elevated experience. Small
plates include BeauSoleil Oysters with a cucumber mignonette, mushroom
and ricotta toast, and prime beef tartare. The space can be rented for
private events.