Review: Forsyth Park

Let’s start big picture here. Savannah’s (much smaller) answer to Central Park, Forsyth Park marks the boundary between the downtown historic district and the rest of the city; in other words, it’s where tourists and locals converge. If you’re walking down Bull Street, simply continue onto the sidewalk that runs north to south through Forsyth, a wide avenue lined by live oak trees. On the north side of the park, the elegant Forsyth fountain is more than 150 years old, and the image you’re most apt to see on a brochure boasting of Savannah’s beauty; on the south side, the Forsyth Farmers’ Market takes over every Saturday, year round, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. There’s a playground for kids, a bandshell that’s home to the Savannah Jazz Festival, and a shaded sidewalk around the park’s perimeter that’s popular with runners and dog-walkers.

Any standout features or must-sees? Spanning just 30 acres, the park is easy to get through on a single stroll. The southern end is recreational, with basketball and tennis courts. The northern end, closest to the historic district has a Confederate monument in the middle; in recent years, the Savannah City Council has weighed options regarding its fate, including possible removal. The tree-shaded north end is also the loveliest place to have a picnic, or just loll around for a while. Look up into the trees for a glimpse of a pair of red-tailed hawks that hang out on the low branches; look east across Drayton Street to see the Candler Oak, a massive tree thought to be roughly 300 years old.

Was it easy to get around? Unlike some of Savannah’s older sidewalks, the paths in Forsyth Park are smooth and well-maintained, and benches are everywhere. The park is well-lighted and gorgeous—particularly the fountain—at night. Biking is another popular way to get around, but watch for signs near the fountain ordering riders to dismount.