River Street Market Place, Savannah

You'll know you're at River Street Market Place when seeing the long row of open-sided, roofed sheds standing between the Savannah River and the cobblestone roadway of River Street. Their simple timber-framed design recalls the market and warehouse structures that once occupied the waterfront during the mid-19th century.

Enter from the River Street side and begin walking through the covered central aisle. The roof provides welcome shelter from both rain and Savannah’s summer sun, while the open sides allow you to glimpse the river in one direction and the historic brick buildings lining River Street in the other. The marketplace is compact, so you can explore it comfortably in about 20 to 30 minutes.

More than 70 booths fill the sheds, most attended by individual vendors. As you move along the aisle, check out handmade jewelry, wooden carvings, wind chimes, artwork, personalized gifts, and decorative objects from Savannah and farther afield. Among the more unusual products are wood-burned home decorations and scented candles made with essential oils that melt into a lotion-like moisturizer.

Continue toward the outer edge of the market to find refreshment stands and picnic tables. Depending on which stalls are operating, you may find coffee, cold drinks, smoothies, or light snacks. For something sweet, watch for pralines—a traditional Southern confection made with sugar, cream, and pecans—as well as for locally produced honey and other regional treats.

Before leaving, step toward the river-facing side of the sheds and pause to take in the activity along the waterfront. Cargo ships may be passing surprisingly close to the promenade, while street performers, visitors, and horse-drawn carriages animate the surrounding area. Indeed, River Street Market Place is less a formal shopping center than a casual covered bazaar, offering a convenient place to browse local crafts, sample something sweet, and experience Savannah’s relaxed riverfront atmosphere.