About Savannah
Savannah is a coastal city along the border of South Carolina known for its historic downtown with cobblestone streets, avenues lined with oak trees, and its beach culture. The Savannah River separates the city from South Carolina, and many enjoy heading over to Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, but there is plenty to see within Savannah too.
The city was established in 1733 as a port city for the British and served as the first state capital of Georgia. Today, there are over 147,000 residents. It’s a huge tourist destination, even in the humid subtropical summer months. Many businesses are also headquartered in Savannah, from paper to multimedia.
Filming Location Options in Savannah
The architecture and ambiance have made filming location options in Savannah perpetually popular for both short and long-term projects. There are also robust service industry options that support these projects, filling in any gaps the filming team has.
- Catering
Catering options in Savannah are exquisite, from fine dining to simple coffee service. The companies working in the city have certainly elevated the catering game, and you’ll have higher standards at your next location after working with them.
- Furniture and Equipment Rentals
One of the best parts about renting furniture on location is the eclectic, one-of-a-kind items you can’t find in other places. Savannah has a lot of great options when it comes to furniture rentals. You can also rent any cameras, lighting, or other equipment needed.
- Transportation
Private transportation is quickly becoming the norm, and again, Savannah has many options for filming projects. There is also public transportation available, and much of it is free, and either of these or a combination of both can make your trip easier.
Filming Location Companies in Savannah
You don’t have to do all the work on your own. Let the local experts help you set up your filming location. There are a lot of options when it comes to filming location companies in Savannah that can give you a hand.
- Chrys Wes Catering
Chrys Wes Catering offers a new take on some of your favorite dishes. They offer seafood, alfredo, chicken dishes, a buffet, side dishes, and deli options. The hand-crafted and hot section of the menu has some absolutely delicious options that will have you returning to Savannah quickly.
- Savannah Vintage and Event Rentals
Savannah Vintage and Event Rentals help their clients furnish an unforgettable experience, and you can immortalize that experience in your filming project. They’ve been working in the city since 2014 and have an inspiring inventory for you to select from.
- Above and Beyond
The name Above and Beyond says it all and aren’t we all looking for someone that will go above and beyond for us. That’s exactly what this private transportation company does, and they have become the gold standard for Savannah. They’re used to corporate travel and have a variety of vehicles in their fleet.
Pros and Cons of Filming in Savannah
There are pros and cons of filming locations in Savannah because hey, no city is perfect. This list will help you determine if the city aligns with your needs.
Advantages
- Beautiful city
Savannah is a beautiful city, with historic architecture, cobblestone streets, water views, and oak-lined streets. There is much to enjoy and scenic backdrops for your filming project, whether indoors or out.
- Economical
The cost of living and all related costs in Savannah, including for filming projects is lower than in other comparable cities. This makes it easier to complete your project while staying within budget.
- Filming nostalgia
The number of movies and other filming projects completed in Savannah is incredible and you can tour many of those. Tom Hanks sat in Chippewa Square in Savannah to film the “… life is like a box of chocolates …” scene from Forrest Gump, and there is a chocolate tour of the city too. Many other movies were also filmed here.
Disadvantages
- High heat and humidity
The deadly H combination – of high heat and humidity, is a constant threat in Savannah during the summer months and the weather feels downright stifling. This can really put a damper on any outdoor activities. Many filming projects avoid the summer months here altogether. Locals say there are two seasons, warm and hot.
- Hurricane threats
Hurricanes are a significant threat in Savannah from June through November, and the unpredictability (and extreme threats to safety) make this a serious disadvantage. Residents and businesses here all have flood insurance too, knowing that hurricanes and other adverse weather events can cause some long-term damage.
- Traffic
Savannah is a tourist-heavy city and that, along with its robust resident population, is another seriously stifling issue. Give yourself some extra time when you’re traveling anywhere in the city, traffic jams seem to occur with the same surprise as a flash dance mob, but also with greater regularity.
Famous Locations in Savannah
- Savannah Black Heritage Experience
The city obviously has huge ties to Black heritage and slavery, and these are best experienced and understood through the curated Black Heritage Experience of Visit Savannah. There are three planned days of tours, visitors can pick and choose, or book the full experience. Among the locations are the First African Baptist Church, the Owen Thomas House and Slave Quarters Museum, and Laurel Grove South.
- Savannah African Art Museum
The Savannah African Art Museum is on day three of the Savannah Black Heritage Experience, but we want to call it out separately too, so you don’t miss it. The museum is in the city’s historic landmark district and its collection features over 1,000 exhibits from West and Central Africa. You can see items from over 22 countries and 130 ethnic groups and cultures represented by the pieces.
- Forsyth Park
Forsyth Park is only 30-acres but features many things that tourists and residents in Savannah look for. There are majestic oak-lined walkways, with the Spanish moss hanging off the tree limbs. The city’s most famous fountain is located here, and there are also picnic areas, playgrounds, and standard amenities. The park hosts many events throughout the year, including the Savannah Jazz Festival each September.