20 Attractions to Explore Near Flannery O'Connor Childhood Home

The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is the iconic symbol of Savannah, Georgia. It is the Mother Church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Savannah.

Troup Square is a hidden gem. Located in the historic district of Savanna and designed by local architect Charles B. Cluskey, it is a pocket park that is filled with lush green grass, shady trees, fountains and monuments - all of which are surrounded by beautiful Victorian-style homes. It is also home to the ‘Troup Columns’ monument that highlights three pillars representing the judicial system in Savannah's past: political power, strength and courage.

Calhoun Square, is a small town with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The town center was once home to a general store and post office, but now features charming cafes, pubs and boutiques. Community events are held throughout the year in Calhoun Square and the local population enjoy potluck dinners, art raffles and movie nights at the community park. With its quaint homes and friendly residents, Calhoun Square well deserves its status as one of the most picturesque towns in the state of Georgia.

The Massie Heritage Center, offers patrons the chance to explore the interesting and unique history of this region. From storytelling sessions to educational activities, visitors can learn about how area residents lived over 100 years ago. The facility houses six period-style rooms representing local lifestyles from 1783 through 1828, showcasing military and political items as well as everyday items that were common during that time.

Madison Square, is the perfect place for a peaceful day. It can be found at the intersection of Arthur J. Roland and Hwy 21s near Pooler. Visitors will find nature trails, picnic areas, and a playground surrounded by beautiful marshland. This green space offers plenty of opportunities to observe birds or just relax and take in the view from under one of the many gazebos this 8-acre park has to offer. Additionally, Madison Square has several amenities available.

Congregation Mickve Israel is one of the oldest in the United States, as it was organized in 1735 by mostly Sephardic Jewish immigrants of Spanish-Portuguese extraction from London who arrived in the new colony in 1733. It is a rare example of a Gothic-style synagogue. The synagogue building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

The Casimir Pulaski Monument stands as a testament to one of the earliest Polish patriots involved in the American Revolution.The monument was dedicated to General Pulaski by Polish immigrants who had recently migrated to Savannah between 1888 and 1903. The uniquely-designed monument offers an interesting juxtaposition: an image of Pulaski mounted on horseback surrounded by four lioness figures located beneath an antique lamppost at the apex of a low mound.

The Colonial Park Cemetery, one of Savannah’s most beautiful restorations, is the final resting place for many of Savannah's earliest citizens. Established about 1750, it was the original burial ground for the Christ Church Parish.

Monterey Square, is a stunning and vibrant area surrounded by picturesque old oaks, intertwined with cobblestones that trace the path of the exquisite historic homes that proudly show the community’s rich history. Visitors to Monterey Square get to explore the past as well as enjoy recreational activities like walking along the Savannah River or visiting one of its many shops offering eclectic finds. There is something for everyone - from antique stores to trendy cafes.

The Green–Meldrim House is a historic house in Savannah, Georgia. Built-in the 1850s, it was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1976 as one of the American South's finest and most lavish examples of Gothic Revival architecture

This is a historic landmark from the 19th century. Built in 1860 and held in the same family for over 100 years, it was owned by Jim Williams until his death in 1990. Inside, visitors can explore the first floor with period antiques and various artworks, as well as view the second floor where Jim Williams's office was located and learn more about his life. visitors can meander through the lush courtyard garden while marveling at how nature has been intertwined with man-made elements.

Chippewa Square is one of the most known squares in all of Savannah, right in the center of everything.There’s a lot to see and do around the square, from plays to beautiful architecture.

Jones Street is a quaint residential neighborhood that offers its residents an exquisite mix of small-town atmosphere and plenty of local attractions. With shops, restaurants and parks nearby, there is something for every taste and interest in the community. For those looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, beautiful green spaces like Whitefield Park are perfect for relaxing outdoors or going for a leisurely stroll.

Forsyth Park is one of the largest parks in the Chatham county, Georgia. The Park covers 30 acres of land just south of Gaston Street and north of Park Avenue. The east border of Forsyth Park is Drayton Street and on the west is Whitaker. For locals and tourists, Forsyth Park is a hub of social interaction.

Pulaski Square, is steeped in history as one of Savannah's original city squares. The square was named after American Revolutionary War hero Casimir Pulaski and is lined by ancient oaks and a quaint fountain. It comes alive on the weekends with picnicking locals, kids playing, and musicians entertaining the crowds. On occasion, neighbors come to the square to celebrate seasonal festivities such as egg hunts during the Easter holidays and annual memorial day tributes honoring fallen soldiers.

Chatham Square is an historic treasure. There are five buildings that form the square: two churches, a library, a post office, and an old store. Each was built in the mid-1800s with unique architectural features such as Greek Revival columns and original plasterwork. Additionally, the square includes a small graveyard filled with nineteenth-century gravestones. This era was one of growth and change for Chatham Square which is still visible today.

This is a National Historic Landmark and the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA. Not only does the landmark provide visitors with insight into the life of an influential American change maker, it also serves as a reminder to recognize the power each person has to make positive impacts in their communities. With stunning gardens and unique tours, better understand Juliette's struggles and successes as she worked towards her goal.

The Georgia Historical Society is an organization committed to the education and preservation of our state’s unique culture and history. Famous historical sites in Chatham County today include Fort Pulaski National Monument, Historic Savannah Theatre, Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, Old Fort Jackson National Historic Landmark, and Pin Point Heritage Museum. This rich history and numerous cultural attractions are thanks to the hard work of the historians in Georgia Historical Society.

The Owens–Thomas House & Slave Quarters is a historic home in Savannah, Georgia, that is operated as a historic house museum by Telfair Museums. An impressive two-story structure on a raised basement, it was completed in 1819 for Richard Richardson, an entrepreneur, shipping merchant, and domestic slave trader, and his wife, Frances Bolton Richardson. The Owens–Thomas House was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976, as one of the nation's finest examples of English Regency architecture

This charming community has all the character of a small town but offers big-city amenities minutes away. Residents have access to restaurants, bars, cultural attractions and shopping centers. There is plenty to do, from cycling and walking along the Savannah River to enjoying regular events and festivals at nearby Forsyth Park. The historic building architecture provides a unique backdrop for those exploring the area - from grand old antebellum homes to interesting Victorian style buildings.