Road Trip Summer Series
Part 3 – Savannah, GA
Savannah, Georgia is a charming city located on the Atlantic coast. It is known for its beautiful historic architecture, its 22 iconic squares, and its Spanish moss-draped live oaks. As Georgia’s oldest city, you can find numerous historic landmarks, museums, parks, and touring experiences. In addition to its historic charm, Savannah also has a vibrant food scene. The city is home to a variety of restaurants, serving everything from Southern cuisine to fine dining. And of course, no visit would be complete without trying some of its world-famous pralines.
Savannah has a diverse economy with employers ranging from aerospace manufacturers to specialty food and beverage to health tech companies. However, the city's hospitality and tourism industry continues to be one of the largest economic drivers with the 25,000-plus residents who support the industry and over 14.8 million annual tourists (2019). Major area employers include St. Joseph’s Candler, Memorial University Medical Center, Walmart, Colonial Group, and Target and Walmart Distribution Centers. In addition, Savannah is home to several colleges and universities including The Savannah College of Art and Design (±15,000 students), Savannah State University (±4,429 students), South University (±818 students), and Savannah Technical College (±3,649 students).
One of the best ways to experience Savannah is to simply wander through its historic district. Take a walk down Jones Street, which is often called "America's Most Beautiful Street." Or, visit Forsyth Park, which is home to the iconic Forsyth Fountain. And don't forget to stop at Chippewa Square, which is where the bench scene from the movie "Forrest Gump" was filmed.
Retail sales for downtown Savannah
The retail market in downtown Savannah is currently experiencing strong growth. The city has long been a popular tourist destination, and the number of annual visitors has steadily been increasing since the pandemic. This has led to an increase in demand for retail space, and rents are rising accordingly.
In addition to the increase in tourism, new investment in the city has also risen in the form of new developments and revitalization projects. The Plant Riverside District, located along the Savannah River front, is a mixed-use development hosting a variety of restaurants, shops, apartments, and a hotel. The redevelopment of formerly neglected areas like Ellis Square and Broughton Street are expected to further boost the retail market in downtown Savannah.
The retail market in downtown Savannah is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The city's strong tourism industry and growing population will provide a strong demand for retail space. And the ongoing investment in downtown redevelopment will make the area even more attractive to businesses and consumers.
