Chippewa Square - Savannah, GA | Savannah.com (2024)

FAQs

What is the prettiest square in Savannah? ›

Monterey Square is often called Savannah's most picturesque square (we will let you be the judge of that) and is the first square just North of Forsyth Park.

A statue of General Oglethorpe sits in the middle, but it's the film history that brings visitors. Forrest's iconic bench scene took place here, but the bench is now housed in the Savannah History Museum. A fun fact is that traffic on the square had to be reversed for the bus to pick up Forrest on the iconic bench.

Jones Street. Often described as "The Prettiest Street in Savannah", Jones Street is renowned for its picturesque beauty and historic charm. Lined with majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss, this cobblestone street exudes a timeless elegance.

The bench that Hanks/Forrest sat on was actually a movie prop that has since been placed in the Savannah History Museum. But the location of the bench for the movie in Chippewa Square is still a popular spot for photographs.

South Historic District

This elegant neighborhood is home to some of the city's most prestigious hotels and restaurants. The homes in this area are also some of the most expensive in all of Savannah, so if you're looking for high-end living, the South Historic District is definitely the place.

Another rumor is that Alice put a curse on the people of Savannah, as she was being hanged (Hocus Pocus style), and it is believed by some that the residual energy from the curse is the reason why Spanish Moss (which is common on most oaks in Savannah) does not grow on the trees found in Wright Square.

"Forrest Gump." "Forrest Gump" made Chippewa Square famous while sitting on a bench and sharing his life story with others waiting for the bus. The bench can now be found in the Savannah History Museum, but a stop in the square is still essential.

The Wall Street Journal reported in 2015 that the massive oak tree where Forrest and Jenny first fall in love and where Jenny is buried is on a part of the property now known as Plum Hill Plantation.

Later then bench that was placed back for tourists was removed (probably because it was faux historical) and placed in the Savannah History Museum. But the church is still there. In fact, Independent Presbyterian Church has been a congregation since 1755.

Fun Facts: A red front door holds the historical significance of meaning people are welcome at the homes that host a painted door. It told travelers that they were welcome. During the Civil War, runaway slaves saw a red door as a sign of a safe house.

Is it safe to walk in historic Savannah at night? ›

For the most part, Savannah is safer than other major cities. According to the latest crime statistics, the majority of crimes are car break-ins and petty theft. With that said, use common sense as you would anywhere else. Walking alone at night is usually fine, but if you're feeling nervous, opt for a taxi or pedicab.

1. North Historic District. With a median home price of $756,913 and a median rent of $1,236, North Historic District is the most expensive neighborhood on our list.

Scenes Filmed In Chippewa Square & Savannah

It finally lands at the feet of Forrest Gump, seated at a bench beside a bus stop on the north side of Chippewa Square, the monument to Georgia's founder just visible behind him.

There is no shortage of incredible movies filmed in Savannah and Tybee Island — from classic favorites like Forrest Gump to recent blockbusters like Lady and the Tramp. If you're planning a trip to Savannah soon, be sure to schedule some time to check out the notable landmarks from your favorite movies.

One of the many lovely squares that are so much a part of Savannah's history and charm, Chippewa Square, was established in 1815 as a tribute to the Battle of Chippewa in the War of 1812. Its location in the heart of Savannah's historic district made it a popular social spot then and now.