A Comparison of Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA – Neckies Great Adventures
Exploring Hidden Paths: A Comparison of Charleston, SC, and Savannah, GA
Two places in the south are Charleston, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia: best known for the history, charm, and that good ole southern hospitality. Beyond history, streets, homes, and amazing waterfronts, they’re each very different and have hidden places in quiet, off-the-beaten-path spots where the past and present mix.
Travelers who want to see the less well-known parts of these famous towns are in for a treat. Let us look more closely at the hidden paths of Charleston and Savannah and compare what these lovely towns have to offer.
Charleston: Uncovering the Quiet Corners
Charleston is famous for its grand plantations, elegant streets, and antebellum mansions. Besides beautiful views, the city has some sites that show both the past and the present.
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- Charleston’s Alleys, while not as famous as King Street, Chalmers offers a quiet escape where you can soak in the city’s historic architecture without crowds.
Another hidden gem is Philadelphia Alley, an old passageway between Meeting and State Street. There is a lot of history in this Cobblestone Alley, and one great event that happened there in the 1700s is still remembered. Today, it’s a calm place to walk around, but there’s still a sense of mystery in the air.
- Charleston’s Secret Gardens
The grand plantations often overshadow Charleston’s gardens, but some hidden gems tucked themselves away within the city. The Battery Carriage House Inn’s Garden is right in the middle of the historic area and has a space surrounded by ivy-covered walls and landmark brickwork.
For something more intimate, the Morris Island Lighthouse, accessible by boat ride or a small hike through the marshlands, offers one of the best hidden views of the city. While not in the city center, its remote, serene location allows breathtaking coastline views without the usual crowds.
- The Unseen Plantation History: Drayton Hall
Many visitors head straight to Middleton Place or Magnolia Plantation for their history fix, but Drayton Hall offers a quieter, more personal experience. As one of the oldest plantation houses in America, Drayton Hall’s preservation (without modern renovations) allows visitors to see the space in its original form.
Charleston’s history is in a more somber but no less poignant environment.
Savannah: Secrets Behind the Squares
- The Secret Gardens of Savannah
Savannah is known for its lush greenery and vibrant garden spaces, but many of the city’s most beautiful gardens are tucked away from the usual foot traffic. The Garden at the Owens-Thomas House, a Georgian-style mansion, is an oasis of peace hidden in plain sight. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful walk-through history, featuring an elegant garden designed in the 19th century.
The Bonaventure Cemetery provides expansive views, imposing statues, and tranquil pathways for a more private haven. Even though movies like Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil have helped it gain more recognition recently, it remains a peaceful haven with a rich past.
- The Forgotten Streets of Savannah
Many visitors stick to the main thoroughfares like Broughton Street or Abercorn, but Factors Walk, a charming series of alleyways behind River Street, offers an entirely different side of Savannah. This secret passageway was once the center of the city’s cotton trade. It’s full of character, with old brick buildings that are now home to unique shops, art galleries, and cafes.
Another hidden gem is Bryan Street, tucked between Abercorn and Lincoln Streets. It’s home to some of the city’s most historic buildings, including the small but beautiful Green-Meldrim House, which someone overlooks by the typical tourist route.
- Savannah’s Hidden Bars and Restaurants
A flourishing secret bar scene can also be found in Savannah, where several speakeasies are stashed away in obscure places.
For something more substantial, The Grey—a converted 1938 Greyhound bus station—offers delicious Southern fare in a space that combines vintage glamour with modern chic. Located in an industrial area of the city, the restaurant is easy to overlook if you’re not looking, but it’s worth the drive for its creative spin on traditional Southern fare.
Regarding hidden paths, Charleston and Savannah offer a treasure trove of secrets, though each city has its unique flavor.
Charleston’s charming alleyways and little historic gardens honor its colonial past. You’ll find something extraordinary whether wandering Charleston’s alleys or Savannah’s forgotten streets.
