Savannah is a city that knows how to serve up good times with its bustling riverfront, historic squares, and mouthwatering Southern cuisine. When it comes to dinner experiences, Savannah truly shines—offering everything from elegant river cruises to intimate food tours that dive into local flavors. We’re particularly fond of the Savannah: Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment, which combines spectacular views with lively music and Southern comfort food. Watching the sunset over the Savannah River while dancing to live tunes makes for a memorable night. Plus, this cruise scores a solid 4.3/5 from over 800 reviews, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a classic riverfront dinner.
For a uniquely soulful evening, the Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise offers an authentic taste of local culture. It features live gospel performances and a hearty buffet, all afloat on a beautifully decorated riverboat. This experience is perfect if you want great food, uplifting music, and views of landmarks like the Talmadge Memorial Bridge—at a perfect 5-star rating from 92 reviews.
If you prefer a more in-depth exploration of Savannah’s regional food scene, the Southern Traditions Dinner Tour is an excellent pick. It combines a walking tour through Savannah’s historic district with multiple stops at local restaurants, sampling dishes like Shrimp n Grits and farm-to-table oysters. This adult-only tour emphasizes regional flavors and storytelling, making it ideal for foodies who want both a meal and cultural context.
Finally, for those seeking a combination of scenic cruising and entertainment, the 2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment offers a lively atmosphere with music, a buffet, and dancing. This 2-hour cruise is well-rated, with an average of 4.0/5 from over 660 reviews, and is a solid choice for a relaxed, fun night out.
Below, we explore each experience in detail, helping you understand what makes each special—and which one might suit your style.
1. Savannah: Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment
At number 1 on our list, this scenic cruise offers a two-hour journey down the Savannah River, with a delicious Southern-style buffet and lively live entertainment. It’s a classic choice for travelers wanting to combine sightseeing with a relaxed dinner. The boat’s deck is the perfect spot to enjoy the view of historic Savannah lit up at night, especially as the city’s colonial-era buildings glow under the stars.
The meal features hearty, traditional Southern favorites, making it a comfort-food lover’s delight. The music, provided by talented live bands, invites you to dance or simply soak in the atmosphere. Rated 4.3/5 by over 800 reviewers, this cruise balances value and ambiance well—costing around $93 per person. It’s particularly suited for visitors wanting an easy, all-in-one Savannah experience that includes sightseeing, dining, and entertainment.
Bottom Line: A reliable, lively choice for a memorable evening that blends scenic views and good food, ideal for couples or groups seeking a fun night out.
2. Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise
Topping our list with a perfect 5-star rating, the Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise offers an uplifting experience aboard a beautifully decorated riverboat. It’s about more than just dinner—it’s a soulful journey with live gospel singers performing inspiring music as you glide past landmarks like the Talmadge Memorial Bridge.
This cruise provides a heartwarming blend of hearty buffet and authentic local culture, with views of historic River Street and the waterfront. The boat’s decor and the lively gospel performances create an atmosphere of celebration and community. It lasts approximately 2 hours and costs about $77.09, making it an affordable yet deeply engaging experience. Reviewers love the food, the music, and the warm hospitality—many saying it exceeded expectations.
The cruise is especially good for those wanting an emotional connection to Savannah’s community and musical heritage. It’s suitable for all ages but particularly resonates with those who appreciate soulful performances and historic scenery.
Bottom Line: A heartfelt, music-filled cruise that combines great food with an authentic taste of Savannah’s cultural soul.
3. Southern Traditions Dinner Tour
If you’re after an intimate, in-depth experience of Savannah’s food and history, the Southern Traditions Dinner Tour fits the bill. This adult-only tour involves a three-and-a-half-hour walk through the historic district, stopping at several local restaurants for tastings of dishes like Shrimp n Grits, Fried Green Tomatoes, and Blue Crab—all paired with a cocktail included in the price.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll hear stories about Savannah’s architecture, squares, and quirky traditions while sampling regional specialties in a relaxed, small-group environment. Most reviews praise the tour for its balance of education, food, and local charm—making it especially appealing for those who want to dine with context.
The tour emphasizes authentic flavors of the Lowcountry, and its pricing of around $120 reflects the quality and quantity of food served. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a more personal, walk-and-eat experience over a cruise or bus tour.
Bottom Line: A great choice for foodies who love storytelling and want a comprehensive taste of Savannah’s culinary heritage in a relaxed setting.
4. Savannah: Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise
For a Sunday or Monday night, this Gospel Dinner Cruise offers a lively, soulful experience aboard a riverboat. At 2 hours long and priced at about $77, it’s a more affordable alternative to the full-day cultural tours. The uplifting gospel music fills the air as you sail along the river, with scenic views of Savannah’s illuminated skyline.
The buffet offers hearty Southern fare, and the atmosphere is lively yet relaxed. With a highly favorable rating of 4.8/5 from 89 reviews, many travelers describe it as an “amazing experience,” emphasizing the music quality and friendly staff. It’s particularly suited for anyone looking to combine music, food, and river views without a full day commitment.
Note: It’s a good choice if you want a more casual, spirited evening that highlights Savannah’s musical talent and scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: A spirited, uplifting night—perfect for those wanting soulful music and good food in a shorter cruise format.
5. 2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment
This 2-hour dinner cruise is a lively option for those craving dinner, scenery, and entertainment all in one. It’s rated 4.0/5 from over 660 reviews, making it a dependable, well-rounded choice. The cruise features a varied buffet and onboard entertainment, including music and the chance to dance on the deck.
The boat’s design reflects traditional riverboat charm, with climate-controlled indoor spaces and open-air decks. The cruise offers lovely views of the Savannah skyline and Talmadge Memorial Bridge, especially at sunset. Many reviewers enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The dancing deck is a highlight for those wanting to shake a leg.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want a combination of scenic views and lively entertainment without the extra logistics of a multi-stop tour. Its price point of approximately $92.52 makes it a good value considering the onboard amenities.
Bottom Line: An easy, enjoyable night out with scenic views, tasty buffet, and the chance to dance away.
6. Savannah: Southern Traditions Dinner Tour
Wrapping up our list, the Southern Traditions Dinner Tour emphasizes historical storytelling alongside multiple restaurant stops. Over about 3 hours, you’ll explore Savannah’s most historic neighborhoods, trying dishes like Stone-Ground Shrimp and Grits and Farm-to-Table Oysters—all with an included drink. The tour emphasizes local culture and cuisine, making it ideal for travelers who want to learn as they eat.
The tour’s small-group setup encourages a more personal connection with your guide, who shares stories of Savannah’s squares and quirky traditions. It’s rated 4.7/5 from 40 reviews, with many praising its entertaining stories and excellent food. The inclusion of one alcoholic beverage and the focus on local landmarks mean you’ll leave feeling more connected to Savannah’s essence.
This tour is perfect for those who enjoy active exploration combined with a good meal, especially if you prefer walking and tastings to cruises.
Bottom Line: A fun, educational, and flavorful way to experience Savannah’s history and cuisine in a single evening.
How to Choose the Right Dinner Experience for You
When selecting your ideal Savannah dinner experience, consider your preferences and travel style. If you want a classic, scenic river cruise with lively tunes, the Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment offers great value. For a soulful, cultural night, the Gospel Dinner Cruise delivers authentic music and hearty food.
If you seek deep local flavor and storytelling, the Southern Traditions Dinner Tour combines walking, tastings, and historical tidbits. For a shorter, lively cruise, the Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise is perfect, while the Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment suits those wanting music and dancing in a scenic setting. Lastly, the Southern Traditions Dinner Tour is excellent for a walking, tasting-focused evening.
Your choice depends on whether you prioritize scenic views, culture, or lively entertainment. Booking early, especially during peak seasons, ensures you get the experience that best suits your interests.
Final Thoughts
Savannah offers a diverse array of dinner experiences that cater to different tastes and interests. Whether you prefer a relaxing river cruise, a musical gospel night, or an interactive food tour, there’s something for all. For those seeking a classic evening with scenic views and entertainment, the Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment is a top pick. For a more authentic taste of Savannah’s culinary and musical roots, the Gospel Music Dinner Cruise delivers a memorable experience.
If your goal is immersive regional food and storytelling, the Southern Traditions Dinner Tour offers a delightful, small-group adventure. No matter what you choose, booking in advance will help you secure the best spot—but don’t wait too long, Savannah’s dinner offerings are popular year-round.