In this poignant memorial sculpture, adorned with the Taliaferro family name, an angel delicately gestures toward a cross. Despite its stunning beauty, the sculpture bears signs of distress, notably on the hands and the tops of the wings. “Marie Barclay Taliaferro – Bonaventure Cemetery, Savannah, GA (25 July 1858 – 15 February 1893) Inscribed Matthew 5:8 King James Version Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

1. The Haunted South Bonaventure Cemetery + Its Most Famous Resident

In the heart of the most haunted city on Earth, Savannah, Georgia, lies a place of both eerie beauty and spectral intrigue – the Bonaventure Cemetery. Nestled amidst the Spanish moss-draped oaks, this otherworldly burial ground draws brave souls and curious visitors from far and wide. A shadowy veil shrouds its history, making it a haven for paranormal enthusiasts seeking ghostly encounters and a hauntingly thrilling experience.

In the heart of the most haunted city on Earth, Savannah, Georgia, lies a place of both eerie beauty and spectral intrigue – the Bonaventure Cemetery. Nestled amidst the Spanish moss-draped oaks, this otherworldly burial ground draws brave souls and curious visitors from far and wide. A shadowy veil shrouds its history, making it a haven for paranormal enthusiasts seeking ghostly encounters and a hauntingly thrilling experience.

As one wanders through the moss-laden gates, they are immediately struck by the cemetery’s ethereal allure. Tombstones adorned with intricate carvings, statues that seem to come to life under the moon’s pale glow, and moss-draped trees standing sentinel like ancient guardians – Bonaventure Cemetery is a portal to the past, where time seems to stand still, and the boundary between the living and the dead becomes tantalizingly thin. The most famous resident of Bonaventure is none other than Little Gracie Watson, a young girl who met a tragically untimely end. Her angelic monument is said to be a hotbed of paranormal activity, with visitors reporting hearing a child’s laughter and seeing her apparition playing amongst the tombstones. However, Little Gracie is not the only spirit to roam these hallowed grounds.

The cemetery’s ethereal choir includes the restless souls of Civil War soldiers, ill-fated lovers, and countless others who met their end in Savannah’s storied past. Their stories, whispered on the night breeze, invite seekers of the supernatural to experience firsthand encounters with the beyond. Visiting Bonaventure Cemetery is not for the faint of heart, but for those who dare, it offers a thrill unlike any other. It is a place where the past is ever-present, and where the veil between the realms is tantalizingly thin. As the sun sets and the moon rises over the mossy oaks, Bonaventure Cemetery becomes a realm where the living and the dead coexist, and the thrill of the unknown awaits those who dare to explore its haunted beauty.

For more information, go to bonaventurehistorical.org.

Photography: Malcom Tully

2. River Street

River Street is a must-see destination that beckons visitors with its rich history and vibrant charm. This iconic cobblestone street along the Savannah River is a bustling hub of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Stroll along its historic waterfront, where you’ll encounter antique architecture, captivating art galleries, and delightful boutiques. The scents of Southern cuisine waft from inviting eateries, while live music fills the air. It’s a place where old-world elegance meets modern vitality, offering stunning riverfront views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. River Street is an essential stop for anyone seeking a taste of Savannah’s unique culture and character.

3. City Market

City Market in Savannah is an evocative blend of Southern hospitality and artistic vibrancy. Located in the heart of historic downtown, City Market is not just a hub, but it’s a living testament to the city’s rich history. Although established in the early 1700s, it is still a place where locals and visitors converge to celebrate the arts, savor delectable Southern cuisine, and enjoy spontaneous live music performances. The ambiance reverberates with the echoes of history, making it the epicenter of Savannah’s cultural heritage.

Photography: Anouk Krantz

4. Cumberland Island

Cumberland Island, a gem along the Georgia coast, remains an untouched wilderness, unspoiled and untamed. The island is steeped in history — it was once a winter retreat for some of America’s wealthiest families, such as the Carnegies and Rockefellers, and remnants of their grand estates still dot the landscape. The island’s free-roaming horses — all 200 of them — are descendants of those once owned by these industrial tycoons. The horses have even adapted to be able to drink salt water, due to their coastal proximity. Cumberland Island remains a retreat for any and all Americans, and makes a great camping destination.

Photography: Lawrence Barksdale

5. Fort Pulaski

Fort Pulaski, located on Cockspur Island near Savannah, Georgia, is a historic gem of the American Civil War era. Built in the mid-19th century, it was a state-of-the-art fortification with massive walls and a moat. During the Civil War, Union forces successfully bombarded and breached the fort using rifled cannon technology, marking a pivotal moment in military history. Today, Fort Pulaski is a National Monument, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The well-preserved fort features a drawbridge, a museum, and extensive grounds for exploration. Its marshy surroundings are home to diverse wildlife, making it a unique destination for history and nature enthusiasts alike.

Photography: Rob Tipton / Sea Pines Resort

6. Hilton Head island

Hilton Head Island, located off the South Carolina coast, is a Southern natural treasure. With over 12 miles of pristine, sandy beaches and lush maritime forests, it offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s heritage. Hilton Head’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty shines through, boasting an abundance of wildlife, including dolphins, which can be spotted year round. Even those who have never been know the iconic lighthouse, Fraser’s Folly (the centerpiece of the PGA’s RBC Heritage tournament) — which has never been a functioning lighthouse, but was built as a gift shop and central monument.

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