104 W Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA
For anyone visiting or living in Savannah, Georgia, there's a special magic along the historic waterfront, and at the heart of it lies River Street Market Place. It’s far more than just a collection of shops; it’s an experience that captures the essence of old Savannah, blending history with modern charm. This open-air market invites you to stroll, discover unique treasures, and indulge in local flavors, all while enjoying the picturesque views of the Savannah River. For locals and visitors alike, it’s a delightful destination for finding the perfect gift, a sweet treat, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
The River Street Market Place embodies Savannah's deep love of history, with its beautifully re-created open-air market buildings that echo those standing on River Street in the mid-1800s. Its mission is to offer a unique "open-air, international shopping experience," where Southern charm and old-fashioned hospitality are on full display. Today, it serves as Savannah's only open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment destination on the river, providing a blend of local and international goods. It's a place where you can browse through a variety of shops, enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious meal, and even watch ships sail by, connecting Savannah's past as a bustling port to its present as a lively cultural hub.
The River Street Market Place is ideally located at 502 E River St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA. This prime position on Historic River Street is in Savannah’s number one tourist destination, and also voted by citizens as the number one destination for shopping, dining, and nightlife. It's situated on the east end of River Street, on the north side, just before the famous "Waving Girl" monument. Accessing River Street itself is part of the Savannah experience, with options to descend via historic stone stairs, ramps, or elevators (such as those located between the Hyatt Regency and City Hall, or at the Alida Hotel). While parking directly on River Street can be challenging, there are often nearby parking garages or lots within walking distance on the bluff, making the Market Place easily accessible for a leisurely visit.
River Street Market Place offers a diverse range of products and services, reflecting its unique position as an open-air shopping and dining destination:
Unique Gifts & Souvenirs: As a gift shop hub, you’ll find a wide variety of unique souvenirs, local crafts, and items that capture the spirit of Savannah. This can include everything from handcrafted jewelry to local art and quirky trinkets perfect for remembering your visit or sharing with friends and family.
Specialty Candy & Chocolate Shops: A highlight for many visitors, the Market Place is home to delicious candy shops that make their very own candies and chocolates. This includes famous Savannah Pralines, Bear Claws, and other Southern confections, often made fresh daily.
Ice Cream and Sweet Treats: Perfect for a warm Georgia day, you can "Don't forget to try the ice cream," as one customer recommended, along with other delightful sweet treats.
Coffee and Beverages: Enjoy a "cup of coffee, or a drink" at one of the vendors, allowing you to relax and take in the riverside views while you shop.
Dining Options: Beyond snacks and coffee, you can also "enjoy a ... nice meal" or "get some sweets or a beer," with various food and beverage vendors offering options for a quick bite or a more leisurely dine-in experience.
International & Local Shopping: The Market Place features over 70 shops, many of which represent countries from all over the world, providing a unique "international shopping experience" alongside local Georgian and Southern goods.
Open-Air Experience: The very nature of the Market Place provides an open-air environment, allowing visitors to enjoy the fresh air and scenic views of the Savannah River while Browse.
The River Street Market Place boasts several distinct features and highlights that contribute to its charm and popularity among locals and tourists alike:
Historic Open-Air Setting: The Market Place is set within beautifully re-created open-air market buildings that stood on River Street in the mid-1800s. This commitment to historical authenticity provides a unique and immersive shopping environment that transports visitors back in time.
Riverside Views & Ambiance: One of its most appealing features is the ability to "see the riverside" and "shop while watching ships sail by bringing in goods from ports throughout the world." This scenic backdrop enhances the overall experience, making it more than just a shopping trip but a memorable outing.
Diverse Vendor Mix: With over 70 shops, the Market Place offers an eclectic mix of goods. This "unique, open-air, international shopping experience" means you can find a wide range of products, from locally made crafts and Savannah-themed souvenirs to items with a global flair.
Culinary Delights: The presence of specialty food vendors, particularly the "delicious candy shop that makes their very own candies, and chocolates," and the availability of "ice cream," coffee, and meals, make it a true sensory experience. Customers specifically praise the ability to "shop and dine, or get some sweets or a beer."
Friendly Southern Charm: The Market Place aims to offer "Southern charm" and "old-fashioned Hospitality," contributing to a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere for all visitors.
Vibrancy and Activity: As a popular destination, there's always "Lots to see and do here," from Browse shops to enjoying a drink by the river. It's a lively spot that captures the energy of Savannah's waterfront.
Haunted History: For those intrigued by Savannah's reputation, the Market Place even embraces its local lore, noting that "Not one, but two ghosts are dwelling at River Street Market Place." This adds an intriguing, uniquely Savannah dimension to the experience.
As a collection of independent vendors and shops within an open-air market setting, River Street Market Place doesn't typically run large-scale, unified promotions like a single big-box retailer. Instead, promotions and special offers are usually handled by individual vendors. However, there are general ways you can find value and discover unique deals:
Individual Vendor Sales: Many of the independent shops and artisans within the Market Place may run their own sales, discounts, or special offers on their specific products. Keep an eye out for signs at individual stalls or ask vendors about any current deals.
Seasonal & Holiday Offerings: During holidays and specific seasons, vendors will often feature themed products or special bundles. For example, during Christmas, you might find holiday-specific gifts or treats, and during warmer months, refreshing drinks or ice cream specials.
Local Craft & Artisan Value: The inherent value often comes from the unique, handcrafted, or locally sourced nature of many items. While not always a "discount," buying directly from artisans can often mean better prices than through third-party retail, and you're supporting local businesses.
"Sweet Deals" from Candy Shops: Places like River Street Sweets, often found within or very near the Market Place, frequently offer their own promotions on pralines, chocolates, and other confections. Check their individual stores for current "sweet deals" or bulk purchase options.
Visiting During Off-Peak Times: While not a formal promotion, visiting during less crowded times might allow for more personalized interactions with vendors, who may be more inclined to discuss pricing or offer small courtesies.
The best strategy for discovering promotions at River Street Market Place is to visit and explore. Engaging with the individual shop owners and vendors will give you the most up-to-date information on their current specials and unique offerings. The real "promotion" here is the chance to find one-of-a-kind items and support local craftsmanship while enjoying Savannah's iconic waterfront.
Should you need to contact River Street Market Place or inquire about vendors, here is their information:
Address: 502 E River St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA
Phone: (912) 629-2647
For more specific details about individual shops or current operating hours, it is often best to visit their official website or inquire with the market management directly, as individual vendor hours may vary.
For residents of Georgia, especially those in Savannah, River Street Market Place is an undeniably suitable and cherished local destination. Its location directly on the historic Savannah River provides not only breathtaking views but also a deep connection to the city's rich past, making every visit feel like a step back in time. The accessibility to this iconic waterfront area, while part of the charm, is well-managed with nearby parking and various routes down to the river.
What truly makes this Market Place ideal for locals is its unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment in an open-air setting. It’s a fantastic place to find truly unique gifts that reflect Savannah's character, supporting local artisans and businesses in the process. Whether you're searching for a special birthday present, a holiday treat, or just a little something to brighten your day, the diverse array of shops, from international goods to delicious homemade candies and ice cream, ensures there's always something new and exciting to discover.
Moreover, the ability to grab a cup of coffee, enjoy a meal, or simply sit by the riverside and watch ships pass by transforms a shopping trip into a delightful leisure activity. This multifaceted experience, combined with the friendly Southern hospitality often found among the vendors, creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeat visits. River Street Market Place isn't just a place to buy things; it's a vibrant community hub where you can immerse yourself in Savannah's charm, connect with local culture, and make lasting memories, making it an essential part of the local Georgia experience.