
Forsyth Park: Savannah’s Iconic Green Oasis of Charm and Quirk
Christina M Clary
Strolling through Forsyth Park is a delightful mix of history, nature, and the occasional bewildering performance art piece. Welcome to Savannah’s favorite park!
Forsyth Park is the kind of place where the air smells like blooming jasmine and people‑watching becomes its own art form. Nestled in the heart of Savannah, Georgia, this sprawling 30‑acre green haven was first plotted in 1733 and formally established in the 1850s. It’s where history, leisure, and the occasional staged family portrait all come to life.
As you wander the winding paths, you’ll nearly always end up drawn to the centerpiece: the iconic Forsyth Fountain. Installed in 1858, its ornate iron tiers are inspired by Parisian fountains—yes, including those at the Place de la Concorde in Paris—even if it wasn’t a direct replica. Every spring, Savannahians engage in the communal tradition of dyeing the fountain emerald green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, and it remains one of the city’s most photographed backdrops.
Navigate down the shaded walkways draped in Spanish moss and lined with centuries‑old live oaks, and you’ll see why this park is such a beloved local escape. On any given day, you might catch—
Couples posing in front of azaleas during peak bloom
Kids racing through the playgrounds or the splash pad
Street musicians and impromptu performances
Artists, writers, and daydreamers lounging on benches or hammocks
The Fragrant Garden for the Blind—emerging from an old WWII-era structure—is another sensory treat, with plants chosen specifically for their scent, and Braille markers for tactile exploration.
For those seeking activity, the park serves it up: 1.5 miles of walking paths, tennis & basketball courts, a children’s playground, and a performance shell that hosts everything from jazz concerts to film screenings. Saturdays often buzz with the Forsyth Farmers’ Market on the southern edge—a perfect spot to grab a fresh pastry or coffee from nearby Collins Quarter.
In more whimsical moments, you might spot someone attempting to tango with invisible partners, juggling frisbees, or discovering hidden murals in a quiet park nook. It’s these small, authentic moments that make people-watching at Forsyth Park endlessly entertaining—and sometimes downright magical.
Forsyth Park Snapshot:
Historic roots: laid out in 1733, named, and opened in the 1850s
Size: 30 acres of lawns, shaded paths, and monument-lined green space
Fountain: installed 1858; patterned after Parisian design and turned green yearly for St. Patrick’s Day
Highlights: Fragrant Garden for the Blind, children’s play areas, tennis & basketball courts, performance shell, walking paths, farmers’ market
Events: seasonal concerts, movie nights, fitness classes, and community gatherings
So, whether you’re lounging under live oaks, snapping photos of moss-draped oaks, or dodging a rogue frisbee, Forsyth Park captures Savannah’s essence: timeless beauty and relatable quirks wrapped in Southern charm. Keep that camera—and sense of wonder—ready.
Products to keep handy
Conclusion & Next Steps
Forsyth Park is more than just greenery—it's a sensory haven where history, whimsy, and Southern charm intersect effortlessly. Whether you're relaxing by the fountain, stumbling upon live music, or dodging a rogue frisbee, each moment here captures the essence of Savannah’s allure. Keep that sense of wonder ready—and your camera even more so.
Ready to wander further? Explore these Wander ’Bout favorites:
Pendant Terrace Bar – Rooftop sips with panoramic views just a stroll from Forsyth Park
Big Bon Bodega – Grab bagels to-go and picnic along live oak-lined paths
Ardsley Station – Refuel after your park visit with elevated Southern comfort food
Need help planning your Savannah getaway? We’ve got you covered:
Contact Us: https://www.letsgowanderbout.com/contact-2
Book Online: https://www.letsgowanderbout.com/book-online
And don’t forget to browse more city guides and quirky adventures on our Field Notes: https://www.letsgowanderbout.com/field-notes
For Savannah trips, check out Viator.
Forsyth Park’s beauty lies in its layers—history etched into the landscape, community brought together under moss-draped oaks, and sunshine-dappled pathways ripe for exploration. Lace up your shoes, bring a blanket, and discover why this patch of green feels so much like home.




