Savannah is one of the most unique destinations for Georgia school trips. It is the state’s oldest city, filled with history, architecture, and access to the coast. At the same time, it is farther away than many schools realize. For most of Georgia, traveling to Savannah takes three to four hours each way, which makes it a bigger commitment than a day in Atlanta or Chattanooga. The result is that Savannah works best as an overnight or multi-day trip — and it is well worth the effort.
At Ollie’s Adventures, we help schools balance cost, travel time, and educational value so that every Savannah trip is smooth, efficient, and memorable.
Day Trip Options
While possible, a Savannah day trip can be tight since travel alone takes up most of the schedule. If you do attempt a one-day visit, it works best to focus on just one or two highlights, such as:
Old Fort Jackson: A Civil War–era fort with interactive programs that bring history to life.
Tybee Island: Visit the Marine Science Center, take an eco-walk with a 4-H guide, or simply experience the beach.
Historic Trolley Tour: A narrated ride through the historic district that lets students see the famous squares and landmarks without a long walking tour.
Lunch can be arranged on River Street or nearby, but expect that travel time will limit how much you can fit in.
Overnight Trips: Experiencing More of Savannah
With one or two nights in the city, the options expand significantly. A sample itinerary might include:
Historic Savannah: The Massie Heritage Center, once the city’s first public school building, offers an eye-opening look at early education in Georgia.
Trolley or Walking Tours: See the iconic squares, statues, and stories that make Savannah unique.
River Street: Cobblestone streets, massive shipping vessels, and a lively waterfront make this a must-see stop.
Tybee Island: Combine history and ecology with a visit to the beach, a dolphin cruise, or a guided marine science activity.
Old Fort Jackson or Fort Pulaski: Add a hands-on history lesson about life during the Civil War.
Evening options can include group dinners, free exploration of River Street with chaperones, or time at a safe, student-friendly venue.
Three-Day Coastal Adventures
Savannah also works as the gateway to a broader coastal experience. For schools with more time, you can expand your trip with nearby options such as:
Jekyll Island: The 4-H center offers guided ecology tours, and the island’s beaches provide unique hands-on learning opportunities.
Brunswick: Home to fun attractions like the Pinball Palace, a huge arcade that gives students unlimited play on vintage machines.
Cumberland Island: A ferry trip takes you to the island’s famous ruins and wild horses, creating an unforgettable natural experience.
These add-ons transform a simple overnight trip into a three-day program rich with history, ecology, and fun.
Things to Consider
Travel Costs: Buses coming into Savannah from central or north Georgia will often need relay drivers, which adds cost. This makes Savannah more expensive than a day in Atlanta or Chattanooga, but careful planning can keep it manageable.
Student Energy: Walking tours of the squares can be rewarding but may be tiring for younger groups. Trolley tours are often more engaging.
Weather: Coastal weather can change quickly, so it is smart to plan indoor and outdoor activities that can be adjusted on the fly.
Why Groups Choose Ollie’s Adventures
Savannah is full of opportunities, but it takes planning to make it all fit. The distance, the variety of sites, and the mix of history and coastal ecology mean every detail has to be coordinated. At Ollie’s Adventures, we design itineraries that make the most of the time you have while keeping costs under control and schedules realistic.
Ready to explore Georgia’s oldest city with your students?
Contact Ollie’s Adventures today to plan a customized Savannah trip that blends history, science, and adventure.