Ultimate Guide to Free Parking in Savannah, Georgia
Hello Wonderful Parents! Are you planning a delightful family getaway to the historic and picturesque city of Savannah, Georgia? Excited about the city squares, Spanish moss-draped oaks, and enchanting coastal scenery but dreading parking woes? Fear not, because this joyful guide will sprinkle your trip planning with the best top-secret spots and clever tips for free parking in Savannah, Georgia. Wave goodbye to parking stress and hello to more fun and extra ice cream money. Let’s park and play in Savannah, the savvy way!
Understanding Savannah’s Parking System
The first step to conquering Savannah’s parking scene is to understand the system. Like any bustling city, Savannah has a mix of public parking options, including on-street parking and parking garages. However, the golden ticket is finding those tucked-away, free-of-charge spaces that allow you to explore the city’s beauty without the ticking timer of a parking meter.
On-Street Parking in Savannah
While much of the on-street parking in Savannah’s city center is metered, there are magical pockets where you can park your steel steed without feeding the meter. It’s crucial to read the signs religiously – they are the scrolls that dictate the parking laws of the land. And remember, even in Camelot rules are to be followed; incorrect or illegal parking might lead your noble chariot to be ticketed or towed away by the local knights of parking enforcement.
City Garages and Lots
If on-street parking sounds too adventurous for your tastes, you may opt for the city’s parking garages and lots. While not all offer free parking, some have special hours or days where parking is complimentary. Keep these treasures mapped and identified, and you might just snag a premium spot without opening your coin purse.
Free Parking Spots & Savvy Tips
Now, onto the sparkling jewels of this guide – the tips and spots! The city offers some wonderful opportunities for free parking; here are a few to mark with an ‘X’ on your map:
- South of Liberty Street: Although downtown is mostly metered, if you venture south of Liberty Street, you can often find non-metered, free street parking. This is especially handy during weekends or after enforcement hours.
- Weekends and Holidays: The city of Savannah is quite generous on the weekends and city-recognized holidays, when on-street parking is free. Keep note of these times for worry-free parking.
- First Fridays: Love art? Then you’re in luck! Enjoy free parking starting at 5:00 PM around Forsyth Park and other select locations during First Friday Art March events.
Bank on the Dot Shuttle
Part of the beauty of free parking often is the stroll through Savannah’s enchanting landscapes. The city offers a free DOT (Downtown Transportation) shuttle that can whisk you and your young knights and princesses across the kingdom. Simply park a touch farther from the bustling center, where free parking is more abundant, and take the shuttle in. It’s an adventure they’ll remember and eco-friendly, too!
Stay with us as we venture further in this guide, sharing more insightful tips that’ll help you and your family make the most of your stay in Savannah. We’ll look into the best times to visit, seasonal special free parking opportunities, and even more spots where you can park entirely for free! Start planning that itinerary, because with these savvy parking tips, you’ll have more time for sightseeing, more dough for dining, and more reasons to smile in the gorgeous city of Savannah.
Whether you’re hunting for treasure in the historic district, picnicking in Forsyth Park, or taking a ghost tour after sunset, knowing where and when to park can turn every experience from good to fairy-tale fantastic. Keep reading, as I’ll reveal more on making your Savannah getaway as relaxed and joyful as a leisurely walk through its charming streets.
5 Things Parents Should Know When Preparing for Free Parking in Savannah
1. Pay Attention to Street Cleaning Schedules
As you wander through Savannah’s whimsical roads, be on the lookout for street cleaning signs. The city needs to keep its cobbled streets and graceful avenues spick and span, which means you may need to move your carriage (a.k.a. car) to avoid any fines. Street cleaning usually happens in the wee hours of the night or early morning, so check the signs twice before tucking your little ones into bed.
2. Utilize Savannah’s Parking Apps
In the age of smartphones, your device is your trusty squire in the quest for parking. Download parking apps like ParkSavannah, which offers a user-friendly interface to pay for metered parking and provides valuable information on parking availability. While you’re predominantly hunting for free spots, these apps can be handy for quickly identifying nearby parking solutions and times when parking meters won’t require your shiny coins.
3. Note the Time Limits
While you might find a splendid, free parking spot, ensure you check for any time restrictions. Some areas allow you to park for free but only for a specified duration. Set a timer or reminder on your phone to avoid overstaying your welcome in these spots, which could lead to a ticket, turning your free parking spot into a costly error.
4. Consider Parking Outside the Historic District
While the Historic District holds much of Savannah’s charm and mystery, parking can sometimes be full. Expand your horizons! Parking just outside this area can be easier and often free, with additional space for your family’s chariot. A short walk or the aforementioned DOT shuttle could become part of your adventure, letting you see even more of Savannah’s hidden gems.
5. Prepare for High Demand During Events
Savannah, with its Southern grace, loves a good celebration, and such events could lead to tighter parking availability. If your journey coincides with a local festival, parade, or event, plan ahead. Arrive earlier to snag those free spots, or identify alternative parking areas where the competition for a free spot isn’t as fierce. This way, the only surprises you’ll encounter are the pleasant kind – like finding the best bench for a picnic or spotting a dolphin in the Savannah River!
Armed with these tips and secrets, parents can confidently navigate the cobbled lanes and oak-lined avenues of Savannah. Free parking doesn’t have to be a fairy tale; it’s a reality waiting to be enjoyed, giving you more time and resources to invest in what really matters – crafting unforgettable memories with your family in the heart of the Hostess City of the South.
Remember to always have a backup plan, as navigating any storied city comes with a need for flexibility. Keep your treasure map of free parking spots handy, but be prepared to adjust your sails if those spots are already claimed by other keen adventurers. And don’t forget, the true joy of exploration lies not just in the destinations, but in the journey and the tales you’ll gather along the way.
Okay, dear parents, it’s time to don your explorer’s hat, pack your day bags, and venture forth into the historic allure of Savannah. With this guide to free parking in your pocket, you’re more than ready to conquer the quaint streets, bask in the city’s old-world charm, and create moments that your little ones will cherish for a lifetime. Happy parking and even happier travels!
See more great Things to Do with Kids in Georgia here. For more information see here
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