Our Favorite Art Museums in Downtown Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia may be best known for its postcard-perfect squares, moss-draped live oaks, and those oh-so-romantic cobblestone streets—but beyond the historic facades and genteel Southern hospitality lies a city pulsing with creative energy. This isn’t just a town that preserves its past—it celebrates the present and embraces the future, especially when it comes to the arts.

Wander just a few blocks in any direction and you’ll stumble upon bold murals tucked into alleyways, contemporary sculptures in leafy squares, and galleries filled with works by both renowned international artists and emerging local talent. From classical portraiture to cutting-edge installations, Savannah’s art scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. Whether you’re an art history buff, a casual browser, or someone just looking for a cool spot with A/C and visual intrigue, there’s something here to delight your senses.

And here’s the real beauty of it all: when you stay at Oglethorpe Lodge, you’re already in the thick of it. Our historic 1853 lodge sits right in the heart of downtown – just steps from River Street’s boutique galleries, around the corner from City Market’s vibrant art studios, and a breezy walk to some of the city’s most renowned museums. No need for taxis or tangled maps; just grab your walking shoes (and maybe a latte) and let the city unfold around you like a well-composed canvas.

Telfair Museum – Three Museums, One Unforgettable Experience

The Telfair Museums

The Telfair Museums are Savannah’s cultural trifecta – a seamless blend of old-world elegance, cutting-edge creativity, and critical historical insight. With just one ticket or membership, you’ll gain access to three distinct museums, each with its own unique vibe and voice. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in Savannah’s artistic soul – all within walking distance of one another (and of course, Oglethorpe Lodge!).

Jepson Center for the Arts – Where Modern Meets Marvel

The Jepson Center is Savannah’s boldest leap into the contemporary art world. The building itself is a stunner—an architectural masterpiece of white marble, glass, and sharp lines designed by Moshe Safdie. Inside, you’ll find rotating exhibitions that feature everything from large-scale sculpture and video installations to vibrant digital art, photography, and experimental media.

It’s the kind of place where you could spend an hour marveling at a kinetic sculpture, then turn a corner and be swept into an immersive light-and-sound experience. The Jepson also houses an interactive kids’ gallery, so it’s great for families traveling with curious young minds.

Standout Feature: The atrium often hosts massive contemporary pieces that make perfect backdrops for your Instagram moment (because yes, art can be photogenic and profound).

Telfair Academy – Art, History, and Old-School Charm

Just a block away from the Jepson is the Telfair Academy, housed in a grand Regency-style mansion dating back to 1819. This was the first public art museum in the Southern United States, and it still radiates that quiet elegance of a bygone era.

Inside, you’ll find 19th- and early 20th-century European and American art, period furnishings, and classical sculpture. The setting—complete with grand staircases, ornate moldings, and sun-drenched galleries—feels less like a museum and more like a sophisticated salon where you might bump into Savannah’s founders discussing the finer points of Romanticism.

Don’t Miss: The “Bird Girl” statue, made famous by the cover of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, has found her permanent home here.

Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters – A Deeper Understanding of Savannah’s Roots

This site is a powerful counterpoint to the art-centric experience of the other two museums. The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters offers a guided tour that explores the lives of both the wealthy families who lived here and the enslaved people who made that life possible.

The house itself is a beautifully preserved example of English Regency architecture with period furnishings and innovative early-19th-century features like indoor plumbing. But it’s the story told in the slave quarters, with its preserved original haint blue paint and thoughtful interpretation, that leaves the deepest impression. It’s a sobering yet essential experience that brings context to Savannah’s complicated past.

Important Note: Tours are guided only, so plan ahead to join one – and bring your curiosity and your heart.

Pro Tip: For the full Telfair experience, start your day at the Jepson Center, then stroll through leafy Telfair Square to the Academy. Take a lunch break nearby (may we suggest The Collins Quarter or Little Duck Diner?), then finish the day with a guided tour at the Owens-Thomas House. It’s an art-filled adventure that spans centuries – and all within a few blocks of Oglethorpe Lodge.

SCAD Museum of Art – Where the Future of Art Lives

If Savannah is a city where history whispers from every corner, then the SCAD Museum of Art (SCAD MOA) is where the future speaks boldly – through light, sound, textiles, architecture, and imagination.

Operated by the renowned Savannah College of Art and Design, this museum is a dazzling hub of innovation, housed in a gorgeously restored antebellum railway depot that seamlessly blends historic architecture with modern design. It’s the kind of space that feels alive, constantly changing with the rhythm of contemporary art.

Inside, you’ll find cutting-edge exhibitions from a rotating roster of international artists, as well as standout works by SCAD students and alumni – many of whom are already making waves in the global art scene. The range of media on display is nothing short of exhilarating: you might step into a surreal fashion installation, wander through a digital lightscape, or take in a minimalist sculpture next to a floor-to-ceiling canvas dripping with color and emotion.

Film buffs and design enthusiasts will also appreciate SCAD MOA’s commitment to the broader visual arts. Exhibits often intersect with fashion, film, photography, and even game design. It’s a museum that doesn’t just display art—it questions it, celebrates it, and reimagines what art can be.

Don’t Miss: The museum’s permanent collection includes pieces by some of today’s most influential artists, such as:

• Nick Cave – Known for his wildly expressive “Soundsuits” that blur the line between sculpture, performance, and fashion.
• Kehinde Wiley – The painter behind Barack Obama’s official presidential portrait, celebrated for his striking, regal portrayals of Black subjects in classical poses.
• Carrie Mae Weems, Yinka Shonibare, and more—names you’d typically see in New York or London galleries, right here in Savannah.

And let’s talk about the gift shop: more than just a stop for souvenirs, it’s a curated treasure trove of design-forward books, handcrafted jewelry, prints, and creative tools. It’s the kind of place where you’ll say “just browsing” and leave with three unexpected finds and a tote bag to match.

Pro Tip: Visit during the afternoon for softer light in the galleries and time to linger. The museum courtyard is perfect for taking a breather – and if you’re lucky, you might catch a special event, artist talk, or film screening.

Distance from Oglethorpe Lodge? Just a quick 5-minute drive or scenic 15-minute walk west through the historic district. You’ll pass charming squares, hidden alleyways, and maybe even a filming location or two (Savannah loves the spotlight, after all).

Whether you’re a lifelong art lover or just discovering what speaks to you, SCAD MOA is not just a museum – it’s an experience. One that reminds you why Savannah is as forward-thinking as it is timeless.

Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum – Nautical Art with Historic Flair

If you’re drawn to stories of the sea, grand ships, or just appreciate craftsmanship on a miniature scale, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is a must-see. But don’t be fooled by the name – this isn’t just a dusty collection of anchors and compasses. It’s an artfully curated museum that sails the perfect line between history and aesthetics.

Housed in the stately William Scarbrough House, a beautifully restored 1819 historic home and Greek Revival mansion, the museum celebrates Savannah’s deep maritime roots while showcasing some surprisingly elegant and intricate pieces of art. Think exquisitely detailed model ships, hand-painted nautical charts, maritime-inspired paintings, and shipbuilding tools that look more like sculptural works than working gear.

Many of the ship models are true masterpieces in miniature, built to scale with extraordinary precision – every tiny rope, sail, and plank reflecting the artistry of the real thing. From 18th-century frigates to transatlantic steamships, these aren’t just models; they’re love letters to the age of sail and steam.

Beyond the Boats

You’ll also find nautical-inspired fine art, antique maritime instruments, and exhibits that explore the lives of sailors, merchants, and shipbuilders who helped shape the port of Savannah into one of the most vital on the East Coast. It’s a fascinating look at the intersection of artistry, commerce, and craftsmanship.

And while the museum itself is rich with detail, the experience doesn’t end indoors.

Hidden Gem Alert: The Gardens

Step outside into the Scarbrough House Gardens, and suddenly you’re in one of downtown Savannah’s most peaceful (and photogenic) escapes. Designed as a formal parlor garden, it’s filled with flowering plants, fountains, manicured hedges, and plenty of quiet corners for reading, reflecting, or simply soaking in the moment.

It’s hard to imagine you’re just blocks from bustling River Street and City Market – this space feels like a tranquil port in the heart of the city.

Art Meets Architecture

The museum’s home, the William Scarbrough House, is a destination in itself. Designed by famed architect William Jay, it’s a shining example of Greek Revival architecture—columns, symmetry, and elegance for days. Originally built for one of the principal owners of the SS Savannah (the first steamship to cross the Atlantic), the house adds another layer of historical significance to your visit.

Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the gardens are bathed in golden light, and bring your camera – this place is an Instagram dream. If you’re a fan of history and design, consider pairing this stop with a visit to the nearby Georgia State Railroad Museum or SCAD MOA for a full day of cultural exploration.

And here’s the cherry on top: the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is just a short walk from Oglethorpe Lodge. So after a morning coffee in the courtyard or a stroll along River Street, set your compass westward and chart a course for one of Savannah’s most underrated cultural treasures. Anchors aweigh! ⚓️

Gallery Hopping in City Market & River Street – Art at Every Turn

Once you’ve wandered the grand halls of Savannah’s major art museums, it’s time to loosen the tie, slip on some comfy shoes, and enjoy a more casual, free-spirited side of the city’s art scene. City Market and River Street – both just steps from your suite at Oglethorpe Lodge – are where art meets atmosphere.

These lively, historic districts are home to a treasure trove of independent art galleries and studios, each with its own vibe, personality, and creative pulse. As you stroll past cobblestones and beneath wrought-iron balconies, you’ll find everything from abstract paintings and vibrant folk art to handcrafted jewelry, sculpture, glasswork, and ceramics. This is art with a local accent—and often a story to match.

Can’t-Miss Stops on Your Art Walk:

A.T. Hun Art Gallery

Bold, funky, and delightfully irreverent, A.T. Hun is where pop art meets Southern sass. This gallery is a riot of color and character, featuring original works from local and regional artists who aren’t afraid to push boundaries. Expect whimsical animal portraits, edgy abstracts, and clever takes on cultural icons—all in a setting that’s as playful as the art itself.

Bonus: Many of the artists represented here are self-taught, which adds a refreshing authenticity to the work on display.

Savannah Gallery

One of the city’s most respected fine art galleries, Savannah Gallery showcases both contemporary and traditional works by Southern artists. This space leans a bit more refined and contemplative, with thoughtfully curated exhibitions of painting, drawing, and sculpture. If you’re looking for something timeless, meaningful, and truly rooted in Southern culture, this is your spot.

Look for rotating solo exhibitions that give you a deeper look into an artist’s world – and their Savannah-inspired story.

Gallery 209

Located on the east end of River Street, Gallery 209 is a long-standing artist cooperative featuring the work of more than 25 local creators. Housed in a charming 19th-century cotton warehouse, the gallery offers an eclectic mix of mediums: watercolors, photography, pottery, fiber art, wood carvings, jewelry, and more. With prices ranging from affordable souvenirs to serious collector pieces, there’s something here for every budget and every style.

Insider Note: Because it’s an artist co-op, you’ll often find the creators themselves working in the gallery—ready to share the stories behind their work.

Insider Tip: It’s More Than Just Art… It’s Experience

Many of these galleries don’t just display art—they create community. You might walk in on a live painting session, a casual conversation with the artist, or a pop-up event with music and wine. Some even host First Friday Art Marches, Second Saturday Art Walks, and spontaneous sidewalk displays when the weather’s nice (which is often!).

So don’t be shy—ask about upcoming events, artist meet-and-greets, or even custom commissions. You never know what (or who) you’ll discover.

Your Artful Escape Awaits in Savannah

Savannah’s reputation as a National Historic Landmark isn’t just about its cobblestone streets and Spanish moss. It’s a city where creativity has flourished for centuries—home to Savannah museums, world-class exhibits, and an ever-growing community of talented artists who continue to shape the city’s culture.

Whether you’re captivated by European art, intrigued by the Civil War, or inspired by modern visionaries like Masud Olufani, Savannah offers a rich spectrum of galleries and institutions—many housed in breathtaking historic buildings from the mid-19th century and early 20th century.

And when you stay at Oglethorpe Lodge, you’re not just visiting the art scene – you’re living in it.

Stay in the Heart of It All

Our charming historic house sits steps from the Savannah River, perfectly positioned between Barnard Street, Bull Street, and Abercorn Street – just blocks from some of the most celebrated art destinations in town.

Within a short walk, you’ll find yourself exploring:

• The Jepson Center and Telfair Academy on West York Street, home to neoclassical sculpture, European art, and the famed “Bird Girl” statue (originally part of the Alexander Telfair bequest).
• The Beach Institute, one of the oldest educational institutions for African Americans in the South and now a vibrant showcase of African-American art, sculpture, and the contemporary work of Masud Olufani.
• Dozens of local galleries in City Market and along River Street, where museum guests and art lovers can meet talented artists and even catch live painting demonstrations.

Many of these sites offer free admission or rotating exhibits under programs like Bank of America’s Museums on Us, making it easy to immerse yourself in Savannah’s creative legacy without breaking your travel budget.

A Day Trip with Creative Vibes

Looking to pair your art walk with ocean breezes? Take a quick 20-minute drive to Tybee Island, where the natural beauty of the coast serves as inspiration for countless local creators. You’ll even find small, unaffiliated sites and pop-up galleries featuring beach-themed pieces that reflect the region’s laid-back charm and artistic spirit.

Why Oglethorpe Lodge?

When you return from a day of gallery-hopping and museum tours, Oglethorpe Lodge offers the perfect place to recharge—with historic charm and modern comfort. Each of our three suites includes:

• 🛋 Spacious living areas with room to relax or sketch your own masterpiece
• 🍳 Full kitchens for a cozy breakfast before your art walk
• 🌿 A serene courtyard perfect for sipping wine and flipping through your new art book
• 🚗 Free parking—yes, actual off-street parking right in the Historic District (a rare treasure!)

You’ll be staying in a beautifully preserved mid-19th-century home, originally built in 1853, with every modern convenience and a location that puts Savannah’s museums, culture, and dining just a few footsteps away.

Come Be Part of the Canvas

Whether you’re wandering through Telfair’s neoclassical galleries, connecting with modern makers at the Beach Institute, or discovering hidden talent tucked inside a historic building off Bull Street, Savannah invites you to be more than a visitor—it invites you to become part of the art.

So pack your curiosity, maybe your sketchbook, and check in to Oglethorpe Lodge—your personal gateway to the cultural soul of Savannah.