Forsyth Park is a 30-acre public park on the southern edge of Savannah’s Historic District, with shaded paths, open lawns and gardens beneath live oaks draped in Spanish moss. Its white fountain, built in 1858, is the park’s best-known landmark and a favorite photo stop. You can also find memorials, sports courts and playgrounds here, or simply take a break under the trees. On Saturdays, a farmers’ market brings local food and flowers to the park.
A park shaped by Savannah’s plan
Forsyth Park sits at the southern edge of Savannah’s Historic District. Its 30 acres form a broad stretch of lawns, paths and gardens among the city’s historic streets. The park was part of Savannah’s original plan, with land donated by Georgia governor John Forsyth. It was laid out in 1851 and expanded that year; earlier accounts also trace its beginnings to 1840.
The park’s scale gives it room for both quiet walks and everyday recreation. Paved paths cross the grounds, while mature oaks shade benches and routes around the lawns. The trees, draped in Spanish moss, are part of the setting as much as the flower beds and open green space.
The fountain and garden
The white fountain at the north end of the park dates to 1858. Inspired by Parisian fountains, it has become one of Savannah’s most recognizable landmarks. Its appearance has changed through later updates, but it remains a focal point along the park’s main promenade. For photographs, early and late daylight can help keep the bright fountain from looking washed out.
Look for the Fragrant Garden, also called the Garden of Fragrance. It contains scented plants and was designed for visitors with visual impairments. Elsewhere in the park, memorials include tributes connected to the Confederate and Spanish-American wars. The historic Candler Oak is another point of interest; it is described as around 300 years old.
Sports, events and Saturday market
Forsyth Park is used for more than walking and picnics. Its facilities include tennis and basketball courts, playgrounds and open areas for recreation. The park also has an amphitheatre, where local performances can take place, and has hosted concerts, film screenings, sports events and festivals, including the Savannah Jazz Festival.
On Saturdays, the farmers’ market sets up at the south end of the park, near Bull Street and Park Avenue. It is a chance to browse local food and flowers while exploring the grounds. If you are visiting for a quieter stroll, plan around the market and other events, which bring more activity to the park.
FAQ
Is Forsyth Park free to visit?
Yes. Admission to the public park is free.
When is the Forsyth Park farmers’ market?
The farmers’ market takes place on Saturdays at the south end of the park, near Bull Street and Park Avenue.
What is the Forsyth Park fountain?
It is a white fountain at the north end of the park, built in 1858 and inspired by fountains in Paris.
What can you do at Forsyth Park?
Walk the paths, visit the gardens and memorials, picnic on the lawns, or use the playgrounds and sports courts.
