City Market: Savannah's Original Shopping Center

The City Market, one of the oldest centers of commerce in the city, is located within a four-block area at the northwest corner of the Historic District. The market is three blocks from the western end of River Street and Factor's Walk and is within walking distance of many of the District's attractions, including the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum and the Jepson Center for the Arts. The market is easily accessed from Interstate 16, and CAT, Savannah's public transit system, has a free downtown shuttle that stops there.

This area has been a market at least since 1755, when farmers and fishermen gathered there to sell their products. Other services sprang up, including a barber shop and a blacksmith shop. Over the years, various market buildings were destroyed by fire and were replaced by newer ones. In 1872, a large, brick building with massive circular and arched windows was constructed at the market. This building was beloved by the people of Savannah. Nonetheless, in the 1950s, the building was declared obsolete. It was demolished in 1954 and replaced by a parking garage.

At the same time, one of the city's fine old residences, the Davenport House, was being threatened with demolition. A group of seven women, devastated by the loss of the market building and horrified over the potential destruction of the Davenport House, moved into action. These women were the core of the Historic Savannah Foundation, which went on to inventory all of Savannah's historic buildings in the early 1960s. These seven women are often credited with saving what is now Savannah's Historic District, all inspired by the loss of the City Market building.

Today, the market is once again a thriving commercial area. It is known for its art galleries, shopping and dining, as well as being a center for the city's cultural and entertainment activities. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution describes the market, saying, "Blend the arty atmosphere of Paris' Left Bank with the languid, laid-back air of Georgia's Low Country, set it in downtown Savannah's historic district, and you've got City Market.'' Features of the market include:

Art galleries. The work of dozens of popular artists can be found at the market, including photographs, sculpture and painting. In addition, the City Market Art Center has studios where visitors can see the artists at work.

Shopping. Browsers at City Market can find a wide variety of products, including clothing and accessories, perfume, fine candies, cigars and gifts.

Dining. Many different dining options are available at the market, from the elegant, Low Country cuisine of Belford's, to wings and pizza, to American bistro fare at the Cafy at City Market.

Events. The City Market sponsors or hosts many annual happenings, including the Heart of Savannah 5K, Folkfest, ArtSquared, Christmas for Kids and a New Year's celebration.

Reviews of City Market on travel websites are mixed. Southern Living says, "It doesn't get more touristy in Savannah than City Market,'' and some visitors agree. One reviewer said, "Typical souvenir shops ... However, there was a strong focus on local art which made the market better than most.'' Many people like the market's live music on the weekends, but find the shopping opportunities limited. Nonetheless, the market is a top destination for both locals and tourists, who seem to enjoy the atmosphere - a "great place just to hang out'' - if nothing else.