There’s something special about Memorial Day Weekend in Savannah. The pace feels a little slower, the riverfront buzzes with energy, and the city begins its transition into the long, golden days of summer. Whether you’re planning a relaxed long weekend close to home or looking to pack your days with coastal adventures, there’s no shortage of ways to soak in the season.
At Upper East River, Memorial Day Weekend can be as laid-back or activity-filled as you’d like. Spend the morning enjoying coffee with river views, stroll through the Historic District in the afternoon, and end the day with sunset cocktails along the water. From beach escapes to local traditions, here are some of the best ways to make the most of the holiday weekend in Savannah.
Start the Weekend With a Riverfront Morning
One of the greatest luxuries of living at Upper East River is having the Savannah River just outside your door. Begin Memorial Day Weekend slowly with a peaceful morning walk along the riverfront before the city fully wakes up. Grab coffee from a nearby café in Eastern Wharf, watch ships move through the harbor, and enjoy the warm coastal breeze that signals summer’s arrival.
Savannah mornings this time of year are especially beautiful, making it the perfect excuse to savor a slower start to the day.
Cool Off With Ice Cream and a Historic Stroll
Few Savannah traditions feel more timeless than grabbing a scoop from Leopold’s Ice Cream and wandering beneath the city’s oak-lined streets.
Spend an afternoon exploring the Historic District’s iconic squares, browsing boutiques along Broughton Street, or ducking into galleries and local shops between stops in the shade. Memorial Day Weekend in Savannah often brings plenty of energy downtown, but our city’s charm always shines brightest when you simply allow yourself to wander.
For residents of Upper East River, it’s easy to transition from peaceful riverfront living to the heart of downtown within minutes.
Spend a Day at Tybee Island
No Savannah summer kickoff feels complete without at least one beach day. Pack the car early and head to Tybee Island for sunshine, salt air, and a full reset by the ocean.
Whether you prefer relaxing with a book under an umbrella, biking around the island, or grabbing seafood at a casual beachfront restaurant, Tybee offers the kind of nostalgic coastal experience that makes Memorial Day Weekend memorable. Families can enjoy the beach and pier, while couples may prefer sunset walks or cocktails overlooking the water.
Pro tip: Arriving earlier in the morning can help you beat holiday traffic and secure easier parking.
Enjoy Dining Al Fresco
Memorial Day Weekend in Savannah is the unofficial start of outdoor dining season. Fortunately, the city offers no shortage of beautiful patios, rooftop spaces, and riverfront restaurants to enjoy.
Consider making reservations for dinner one evening and fully leaning into the atmosphere—warm evenings, glowing string lights, live music drifting through the air, and the unmistakable energy of summer beginning along the coast.
One of the best parts about living at Upper East River is being close enough to enjoy Savannah’s vibrant dining scene without sacrificing the calm, residential feel of riverfront living.
Explore the Water
With the Savannah River so close by, Memorial Day Weekend is also the perfect opportunity to spend time on the water. Book a sunset cruise, rent kayaks, join a boating excursion, or simply enjoy watching vessels move along the riverfront from one of Savannah’s scenic public spaces.
Being connected to the water is part of what makes life at Upper East River feel distinctly Savannah. The river becomes more than a view. It becomes part of your everyday lifestyle.
Attend a Local Event or Festival
Memorial Day Weekend often brings outdoor markets, live music, and community events throughout Savannah and Eastern Wharf. Spend a morning browsing local vendors, listening to live performances, or enjoying an outdoor gathering with friends and family.
The neighborhood energy throughout the riverfront district tends to feel especially lively during holiday weekends, making it a wonderful time to fully embrace Savannah’s sense of community.
Host a Relaxed Gathering at Home
Of course, sometimes the best Memorial Day moments happen at home. Invite friends over for cocktails, enjoy a casual dinner with family, or simply unwind on your balcony after a full day exploring the city.
At Upper East River, thoughtfully designed living spaces make entertaining feel effortless. Open-concept interiors, beautiful finishes, and riverfront surroundings create the perfect backdrop for welcoming summer in style.
A Suggested Memorial Day Weekend in Savannah Itinerary
Looking for inspiration? Here’s one ideal way to spend a long weekend in Savannah:
Friday Evening
- Arrive home and unwind with dinner along the riverfront
- Take a sunset stroll through Eastern Wharf
- Enjoy rooftop cocktails with friends
Saturday
- Morning coffee and a riverwalk stroll
- Explore Savannah’s Historic District
- Stop by Leopold’s Ice Cream for an afternoon treat
- Dinner reservation at a favorite local restaurant
Sunday
- Full beach day at Tybee Island
- Seafood lunch overlooking the water
- Relaxed evening back at Upper East River
Monday
- Slow morning at home
- Visit a local market or outdoor event
- Enjoy one final waterfront walk before the weekend ends
Welcome Summer Along the River
Memorial Day Weekend has a way of reminding us to slow down and savor where we are. At Upper East River, that feeling comes naturally. Here, residents enjoy the rare balance of peaceful riverfront living and immediate access to the very best of Savannah’s dining, culture, entertainment, and coastal beauty.
As summer begins along the Savannah River, there’s no better place to experience it all.
If you’re ready to embrace the Upper East River and Savannah lifestyle for a summer full of fun, explore our available homes and reach out to schedule a tour.
Plus, don’t miss our Spring Into Savings special! Get up to $50K in savings on contracts written on select homes before May 31, 2026.
