12 Areas to Avoid in Savannah, GA [TOURIST SAFETY GUIDE]

Nestled on the Georgia coast, Savannah charms visitors with its cobblestone streets, historic squares, and weeping willow trees. However, like any popular destination, there are areas to avoid in Savannah to ensure your trip is both safe and enjoyable. Having wandered its enchanting streets myself, I’ve experienced the compelling mix of Southern hospitality and rich history, but I’ve also learned that some spots are best left off your itinerary to keep the experience delightful.

As a traveler, it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings and stay informed about which neighborhoods might disrupt your adventure with unnecessary concerns. My last visit taught me the importance of planning, an insight I am eager to share. With a little local know-how, you can navigate this picturesque city with confidence, soaking up all the beauty and charm while avoiding any trouble spots. For instance, familiarizing yourself with popular attractions and activities in Savannah can help you create a safe and enjoyable itinerary.

Embarking on a journey to Savannah should be filled with captivating tales of the past, mouth-watering local cuisine, and the warmth of the Georgian sun. Therefore, knowing the areas to circumvent is essential for crafting an unforgettable journey free from worries, leaving you to revel in the many splendors Savannah has to offer. Follow along as I guide you through the city’s landscape, just as I learned it, ensuring your stay is nothing short of extraordinary.

Top Areas to Avoid in Savannah, Georgia

1. Yamacraw Village

Yamacraw Village, a residential area in Savannah, has historical significance but is known to grapple with safety concerns. Visitors often receive advice from locals to be cautious or avoid the neighborhood due to its higher crime rates compared to other parts of the city. While a daytime visit may offer a glimpse into the area’s rich past, travelers are advised to remain vigilant and stay informed about the current safety landscape.

Though many residents call Yamacraw Village home, the neighborhood has been identified as one of the least safe neighborhoods in Savannah, with travelers seeking the quintessential Savannah charm being advised to prioritize other districts known for their picturesque streetscapes and lower crime statistics. Consider some of the best places to stay for a secure and enjoyable Savannah experience. Make sure to research updated safety information before planning any visit to this area.

2. Carver Village

Tucked away in Savannah, Carver Village is a neighborhood where visitors may want to be cautious, as it’s included in Savannah’s high-crime areas. While it boasts a sense of community among locals, it doesn’t escape the city’s struggles with crime. Explorers are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings, especially after dusk.

Travelers searching for serene strolls and idyllic scenery might find Carver Village contrasts with their expectations. It’s best to stay informed about current safety advisories before adding them to your itinerary. Embrace Savannah’s charm by exploring its many other inviting neighborhoods.

3. Waters Avenue

As we continue to delve into areas that warrant vigilance in Savannah, Waters Avenue comes into focus. This street has a storied past, mingled with contemporary challenges, earning its reputation as one of the sketchy parts of Savannah. With its mix of businesses and residences, visitors should keep a watchful eye, particularly as night falls.

For those seeking to experience Savannah’s historic character, daytime journeys along Waters Avenue can be intriguing. However, remain alert and consider accompanying a local or joining a guided tour. As with any urban exploration, staying aware of your surroundings goes a long way toward a pleasant visit.

4. MLK Jr. Boulevard

Strolling down MLK Jr. Boulevard in Savannah, caution is paramount. While this boulevard is an integral part of Savannah’s diverse tapestry, there are areas that are less inviting after dusk, intersecting with some of Savannah’s high-crime areas. During the day, it hums with a mixture of commerce and history, offering an array of sights preferably savored in daylight.

Come evening, MLK Jr. Boulevard demands heightened alertness. Stay watchful, consider moving in pairs or groups, and mingle with locals who know the area well. Ensure your engagement with this historic avenue remains as safe as it is culturally enriching.

5. Cuyler-Brownsville

Embarking on a journey through Savannah’s less traveled paths, we find ourselves drawn to the Cuyler-Brownsville district, an area with a history as rich as its architectural heritage, yet it is also known as one of the Savannah neighborhoods with safety concerns. Nestled in the heart of an ongoing revitalization project, this district mirrors the complexities of urban rebirth, offering a window into the city’s storied past with caution advised to those who wander its streets, especially after nightfall.

During the day, the inimitable allure of Cuyler-Brownsville is palpable, with historic homes and vibrant local culture painting a picturesque scene. Nonetheless, it is prudent for visitors to stay vigilant, keeping to areas that are highly frequented. Remember to prioritize your safety when planning your encounter with Savannah’s historical tapestry, ensuring your experience is secure and enjoyable.

6. Tatemville

Delving deeper into the fabric of Savannah, we reach Tatemville, a community framed with its own rich narratives. While this neighborhood is characterized by a strong sense of community spirit, it is also often mentioned in discussions of areas to avoid in Savannah due to caution recommended for those wandering its streets after dark. Tatemville hums with a tune that is true to the local way of life, yet visitors are encouraged to be wary as the night approaches.

Tatemville, amidst its residential lattice, provides snapshots of the day-to-day for those who call Savannah home. It invites a genuine touch but, as with any area in the throes of transformation, it is most comfortably and securely experienced with the company of someone astute or under the safety of the sun’s light.

7. West Savannah

As we delve into the heart of West Savannah, we tread upon ground steeped in rich history and close-knit community bonds. The time-worn exteriors of its buildings whisper tales from the past, stirring both wonder and reverence in those who pass by. Despite its charm, cautious travel in Savannah’s Midtown is advisable here, given that the quarter has its fair share of issues.

This neighborhood, brimming with distinctive personality, represents a piece of the diverse tapestry that mirrors Savannah’s broader efforts to bolster safety and foster community participation. Daytime is the best time to experience its unique atmosphere while maintaining the standard vigilance one should uphold in urban environments. The transforming paths of West Savannah beckon to the curious, yet they simultaneously serve as a reminder to maintain the serenity that comes with responsible and informed exploration.

8. Midtown

As our journey takes us through Savannah’s diverse tapestry, Midtown emerges as a residential heart with a lively pulse. It’s a slice of Savannah where daily life unfolds amidst shops, schools, and homes. In daylight, Midtown buzzes with a friendly, suburban charm, yet as with many urban neighborhoods, there are potentially risky districts in Savannah where visitors should remain alert, as areas are in flux.

With caution in mind, a daytime stroll can reveal Midtown’s unique vibe—tree-lined streets and local eateries invite casual exploration. While the transitioning parts of Midtown suggest attentive awareness, the community’s spirit shines when the sun is up, making it another noteworthy stop in Savannah’s vast urbanscape.

9. Victory Drive

Exploring 9 Victory Drive offers a nuanced view of Savannah’s cityscape, a street woven with history and transformation that today reflects the city’s evolving narrative. While the avenue boasts impressive residences, it navigates the complexities of Savannah’s challenging neighborhoods, standing as a beacon of both heritage and contemporary shifts. This corridor witnesses a dynamic history and beckons for careful navigation.

Like the intricate patterns of Savannah, 9 Victory Drive harmonizes historical allure with present-day vigilance. During the daylight, its expansive presence whispers tales of antebellum opulence, though one should stay alert amidst signs of potential danger areas in Savannah. For those drawn to uncover the authentic tales of this city, the daylight offers a shielded canvas for exploration.

10. Skidaway Road

Continuing with our exploration of Savannah, we approach 10 Skidaway Road, a unique thread in the fabric of this diverse city. This thoroughfare is appreciated for its direct links to various Savannah destinations, providing a vital route for both residents and travelers. Skidaway Road might not share the historic charm of the city center, yet its functional importance is undeniable.

However, as with any urban landscape, Skidaway Road falls within one of the areas with high crime rates in Savannah, necessitating vigilance, particularly at night. It is advisable to visit during the daytime when you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and blend seamlessly with the local community. This section of Savannah presents a no-frills experience but calls for due caution.

11. Ogeechee Road/Dawes Avenue

Continuing down Savannah’s diverse streets, 11 Ogeechee Road/Dawes Avenue offers its distinct flavor to the city’s panorama. Despite its local charm, this area is sometimes mentioned among the questionable areas in Savannah, with certain parts calling for increased caution after dark. It’s a place where the pulse of local activities can be felt during daylight.

By day, Ogeechee Road buzzes with commerce and connectivity, serving as a crucial artery for residents. Still, it’s advisable to be observant and prudent when trekking through this zone. Engage with this slice of Savannah while the sun is high, to safely capture its essence and rhythm.

12. Bull Street Corridor

Delving into Savannah’s beating heart, the Bull Street Corridor reveals an urban landscape that differs markedly from its surroundings. By day, this boulevard thrives with the warm fervor of cafes and boutiques. While the area is largely secure, it echoes the complexity of any city street; certain locales merit extra vigilance, akin to potentially hazardous areas in Downtown Savannah when the veil of night descends.

The artery of Bull Street is alive and welcoming, steeped in regional hues and the hospitable allure of the South. It’s a place where travelers blend seamlessly with the indigenous crowd, yet wisdom dictates a mindful demeanor as dusk turns to twilight. Embrace the myriad experiences it offers while the sun is high, and savor a segment of the metropolis’s diverse vitality, always with an eye towards safeguarding one’s well-being.

Conclusion

Savannah’s historic charm and breathtaking Spanish moss-draped squares make it a tourist favorite, but like any city, it has areas visitors should be cautious of, particularly at night. To fully enjoy the city’s famed Southern hospitality and picturesque settings, steering clear of less-traveled, poorly lit areas and remaining vigilant of your surroundings is prudent. By doing this, one can avoid the less savory aspects and keep the focus on Savannah’s rich culture, friendly locals, and delightful dining options.

Ensuring you’re in the know about the areas to avoid in Savannah can transform your trip from good to unforgettable. It’s about embracing the vibrant pulse of River Street and the allure of the Victorian District while sidestepping spots that might interrupt the charming atmosphere. Keep your wits about you and your itinerary filled with well-populated, tourist-friendly zones, and you’re set to capture the true essence of this coastal gem!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the specific areas in Savannah that travelers should avoid due to safety concerns?

While Savannah is generally a safe city for tourists, it’s advisable to be cautious in certain areas, especially at night, including neighborhoods with higher crime rates like those surrounding the Historic District’s borders, some parts of West Savannah, and areas east of the Historic District. Always check with local resources for the latest information as neighborhoods can change over time.

Are there any precautions visitors should take when exploring Savannah?

Yes, visitors should always stay alert, keep personal belongings secure, avoid walking alone late at night, and stick to well-lit and populated streets. It’s also wise to research your destination and route before going out and consider using trusted transportation options after dark.

Is Savannah’s Historic District safe for tourists?

The Historic District is generally safe, as it is a highly trafficked tourist area with lots of shops, restaurants, and landmarks. However, as with any popular tourist spot, it’s important to stay vigilant for pickpockets or opportunistic crime, especially in crowded areas or during late hours.

Can public transportation in Savannah be safely utilized, or should it be avoided in certain areas?

Public transportation in Savannah is mostly safe, but as with any city, there are certain routes or times of day when it may be less safe. It’s always a good idea to check with locals or your hotel concierge for the best transportation options and avoid poorly lit or deserted bus stops.

How should tourists react if they find themselves in an uncomfortable situation or an area that feels unsafe in Savannah?

If a tourist feels unsafe, they should trust their instincts and leave the area as calmly and quickly as possible. Head towards a public place with more people, such as a restaurant or store. If necessary, don’t hesitate to call 911 for immediate assistance. It’s also helpful to carry a charged cell phone with GPS and emergency contacts readily accessible.