Savannah, Georgia exploded in popularity in the 1990s after the publication of book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. For a while the laid back, southern city was so crowded you couldn't get a seat in a restaurant, but now the rush is over and the city has returned to being the gentle lady she is known for. If you have been looking for a vacation that will rejuvenate your soul and your heart then a trip to Savannah is for you.

Savannah sits on a wide river near the Atlantic coast and has survived wars and economic ups and downs for over 200 years. The past is always present in Savannah as you walk through her streets shaded by Spanish moss covered oaks. The city is filled with Southern mansions for various periods dating all the way back to the 1700s. Savannah's history makes her unique, but that doesn't mean there are not plenty of things to do today. When you visit Savannah there are a few must do things for every visitor.

If you are a fan of John Berendt's Midnight you will be pleased to know that the Mercer House is now open for tours. This house was originally built for singer Johnny Mercer's grandfather. By the late 1960s the house was falling apart when Jim Williams bought the home and restored it. Mr. Williams saved over 50 houses in the area, but that fact is often overlooked due to the events captured by John Berendt. Before or after you tour the home make sure to spend some time in Monterey Square across the street. If a tour of the Mercer House isn't enough to quench your thirst for everything Midnight you can always take a Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil tour.

Don't end your tour of Savannah's homes with the Mercer House because Savannah is overflowing with beautiful historic homes. Any girl scout will have to see the Juliette Gordon Low home. Then there are great mansions like the Davenport House and the Owens-Thomas House. Of course, even if you don't go inside many houses, just walking the streets on a cool morning is a pleasant treat with surprises around every corner.

While touring the homes in Savannah a must stop for Civil War and history buffs is the Green-Meldrin House, where General Sherman headquartered while in Savannah at the end of his famous March to the Sea. In December of 1864 Sherman spared the city of Savannah from destruction and symbolically offered it to President Lincoln. Sherman's decision to keep Savannah intact was a good one because it preserved much of the character that is still present today. After touring the Green-Meldrin House make sure to tour the old forts around Savannah including Fort Pulaski and Fort Jackson.

Another must stop is River Street next to the Savannah River. After a long day of touring the city a relaxing dinner at one of the restaurants on River Street is a must. After dinner tour the art galleries and watch the street performers put on hilarious and entertaining shows. Then find a bench and watch the boats float by as the sun sets. Before leaving make sure to stop by River Street Sweats and pick up some fudge or a praline.

If you are a beach lover or want to do something the kids will really enjoy drive over to Tybee Island, also know as Savannah's Beach. Tybee Island is a small place and not as wild as many beach towns, but the island is beautiful and worth a visit even in the winter. While on Tybee take a quick tour of the light house. The view from the top is stunning.

A Savannah, Georgia vacation is one of the most romantic trips a couple can take. Savannah is one of the world's most beautiful cities that means something different to every visitor. If you have always wanted to visit the Georgia coast there has never been a better time than right now, so pack your bags and head to Georgia to find out what Savannah means to you.