Savannah Tour of Homes and Gardens

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Photograph courtesy of Three Oaks Realty

March 27–30
250 miles from Atlanta

What it is: Ever wondered what it’s like inside Savannah’s moss-draped historic homes, with their Ionic columns and gabled porticoes? This event lets you snoop around some of the finest houses and gardens in town. Each day focuses on a different historic neighborhood, where ticket holders can follow self-guided tours of between five and eight homes per day. savannahtourofhomes.org

Why I go: “I remember visiting the Juliette Gordon Low House as a child and walking through the squares and knowing there was history all around us. For patrons of the Savannah Tour of Homes and Gardens, the treat is to see what lies behind closed doors. The architecture beckons passersby to appreciate and investigate. It comes alive during the tour in the context of today’s living. Families have adapted furnishings handed down through generations to create rooms with panache. And the gardens, you just have to see for yourself!” —Patricia McLean, an award-winning interior designer whose clients include the Georgia Governor’s Mansion

Double up: The Savannah Music Festival, which claims to be the largest musical arts event in Georgia, celebrates its twenty-fifth anniversary March 20–April 5.

Where to stay: Planters Inn serves wine and cheese to guests most nights; the Mansion on Forsyth Park is a luxury spot, with Versace furniture in the lobby and an eclectic 400-piece art collection.

Where to eat: For authentic Southern fare, go to Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room and try the fried chicken and okra gumbo, but be prepared for a long wait—and it’s cash only.

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