Savannah is a city that wears its culinary charm proudly. Known for its Southern hospitality and flavorful cuisine, Savannah offers dining experiences that are as memorable as its historic squares. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a romantic river cruise with live entertainment or explore the local food scene with an expert guide, this city has something for every kind of traveler. We particularly love the Savannah: Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment because it combines scenic views, good food, and lively music all in one relaxing ride. It’s perfect for those who want to see Savannah from the water while enjoying a hearty Southern meal.
If you prefer a more soulful experience, the Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise delivers uplifting gospel tunes paired with a scenic cruise and a tasty buffet. For those who want to dive into Savannah’s small-group food scene, the Southern Traditions Dinner Tour offers a boutique, intimate experience with local flavors and stories. No matter your taste or budget, there’s a Savannah dining experience waiting to make your visit unforgettable.
Quick Overview
Savannah’s top dining experiences include scenic river cruises with live music, gospel performances, guided food tours, and multi-restaurant dinner strolls. These tours range from 2 to 3.5 hours, with prices from around $77 to $120 per person, offering everything from casual buffets to curated tastings. Check out the options below to see which aligns best with your interests and schedule.
1. Savannah: Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment
At number 1, this 2-hour dinner cruise lets you enjoy a Southern-style buffet while cruising down the scenic Savannah River. The boat is decorated in classic red, white, and blue, offering an authentic riverboat experience. Guests rave about the lively atmosphere, where you can dance to live music under the stars and take in views of historic Savannah. The cruise departs from the riverfront and provides a relaxing way to see the city’s skyline along with historic landmarks.
What makes this cruise stand out is the combination of delicious food, entertainment, and panoramic views—all at a reasonable $93 per person. It’s ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone wanting a relaxed, fun evening. Reviews highlight the great food and lively atmosphere, making it a popular pick for first-timers. Be prepared for an active night if you love dancing and music.
Bottom Line: This cruise balances scenic views, Southern cuisine, and live entertainment, making it a standout choice for a memorable night in Savannah.
2. Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise
At number 2, the Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise offers a soulful take on waterfront dining. For just over $77, this 2-hour cruise features live gospel performances by local singers while floating past Savannah’s riverfront highlights, including the iconic Talmadge Memorial Bridge. The boat is decorated in the traditional riverboat style, adding a nostalgic touch.
What makes this tour special is the combination of spiritual music and scenic views. The dinner buffet includes hearty Southern dishes, and there’s a cash bar for drinks. Guests love the authentic gospel performances, often describing the experience as uplifting and joyful. The tour’s small size and friendly atmosphere create an intimate vibe—perfect for those seeking an emotional connection along with their meal.
Review quote: “The music was better than expected. Great food and great service.” This tour suits travelers interested in music, local culture, and scenic river views.
Bottom Line: For a soulful evening with live gospel music and river scenery, this cruise offers both entertainment and a taste of Savannah’s spiritual roots.
3. Southern Traditions Dinner Tour
Number 3 on our list is the Southern Traditions Dinner Tour, a boutique experience that blends culinary delights with local storytelling. For around $120, this 3.5-hour tour takes you through Savannah’s historic districts, stopping at several restaurants. You’ll enjoy Lowcountry staples like shrimp and grits, oysters, and She Crab Soup, along with a local cocktail or mocktail.
This tour’s strength lies in its small group size—no more than 10 guests—allowing for personalized attention and in-depth stories about Savannah’s culture and cuisine. The guide is passionate and knowledgeable, sharing entertaining stories of the city’s past as you dine across different venues. Guests love the variety of flavors and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Review quote: “Rebecca was very knowledgeable about Savannah’s history and food choices. Highly recommend!” Perfect for food lovers who want a taste of the city’s culinary heritage without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for culinary enthusiasts eager to explore Savannah’s local dishes and history in a cozy, intimate setting.
4. Savannah: Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise
Number 4 features a Monday evening variation of the popular gospel cruise. For $77, you get a 2-hour river cruise with uplifting gospel music and a hearty buffet. The boat, decorated in classic riverboat style, offers scenic views of the Savannah River and the city skyline. Reviews consistently praise the joyful music and friendly atmosphere.
This cruise provides an authentic, soul-stirring experience, especially on a quiet Monday evening when the river and melodies combine perfectly. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy music, spirituality, and relaxing river views. Be aware that the experience is more about music and scenery than elaborate entertainment.
Bottom Line: For a soulful, relaxing evening with gospel music and beautiful river views, this cruise is a solid choice, especially if you prefer a weekday outing.
5. 2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment
Number 5 offers a classic river cruise experience, priced at around $92.52. This 2-hour cruise features a varied dinner buffet and onboard entertainment, with options including music and dancing. The boat is decorated in traditional style and offers panoramic views from climate-controlled decks and open-air patios. The cruise includes a stop at the Talmadge Memorial Bridge and Savannah’s waterfront.
Guests enjoy the relaxed vibe and the chance to dance on the deck after dinner. The reviews are mixed—many appreciate the lively atmosphere, though some mention stairs might be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s perfect for travelers wanting dinner, entertainment, and a lively environment.
Review quote: “The live entertainment and buffet were excellent. We ended the night dancing.” This tour is best for those looking for fun and relaxed entertainment.
Bottom Line: A good pick for dinner and dancing, especially if you want to experience Savannah from the water with a lively, social environment.
6. Savannah: Southern Traditions Dinner Tour
Finally, the Southern Traditions Dinner Tour at number 6 offers a 3-hour stroll through Savannah’s historic district with stops at multiple restaurants. For $106, you’ll enjoy local dishes like fried green tomatoes and Blue Crab, all paired with an included alcoholic beverage or mocktail. The guide shares stories about Savannah’s top landmarks and quirkiest traditions, making the experience both tasty and informative.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing, culture, and food in one relaxed evening. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate learning about local history while enjoying delicious bites. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, and the narrative style makes it more than just a meal.
Review quote: “It was a great way to see Savannah and learn about its culture, all while enjoying excellent food.”
Bottom Line: For a combination of walking, storytelling, and multiple restaurant stops, this tour is perfect for those who want a well-rounded, engaging evening.
How to Choose the Best Dining Experience in Savannah
When selecting your ideal dining experience, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. For a relaxed, scenic evening with music, the Buffet Dinner Cruise or the Monday Gospel Cruise provide lively atmospheres. For those eager to learn about Savannah’s food culture, the Southern Traditions Dinner Tour offers a more intimate, storytelling experience. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the gospel cruise, while foodies aiming for variety and depth should consider the dinner tour.
Think about mobility—some cruises involve stairs or walking—so check the details if that’s a concern. Also, booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons or for popular times like weekends and holidays.
Final Thoughts
Savannah’s diverse range of dining experiences ensures there’s something for all. From lively river cruises with live music to guided food tours through historic districts, you can tailor your nights to fit your style. For an immersive evening, the Southern Traditions Dinner Tour offers a nice blend of food and storytelling. If you’re celebrating or looking for entertainment, the buffet dinner cruise offers a relaxed, fun atmosphere.
No matter which experience you choose, Savannah’s warm hospitality and flavorful cuisine promise a delightful evening. Book early, plan your preferred type of experience, and enjoy a memorable night in this charming Southern city.