By Elizabeth Danos, News Editor

Having been born and raised in Savannah, some might think I’d be dying to get out. But, in actuality, I adore this quaint little city. I spent my freshman year of college in Statesboro at Georgia Southern, but apart from that, Savannah is all I know. However, I fully intend to move after I graduate only because I think it’s important to have new experiences in new places.

But, for now, I’m here. And I’m definitely not complaining. With downtown, the beach, and river access all over the city there’s always something to do. The key is to know where to go.

Downtown is pretty basic. The park, the food, the shopping; it’s all fabulous. There are ghost tours and pub-crawls, which are cheesy and a ton of fun. River Street is a little kitschy, but there are a lot of great seafood restaurants (like River House Seafood and the Shrimp Factory).

Downtown also becomes a playground for anyone over the age of 21 on the weekends. From the Rail Pub to Saddle Bags, there’s a place for everyone to go for a good time. My favorite spot right now is Hangfire, because I have yet to go in there and not meet someone incredibly interesting.

A nice contrast to all that concrete, however, is Tybee Island. I’m not the biggest beach fan (I prefer a boat and a river), but every now and then I just need a day on Tybee. Back River is the place to go, and ice cream from the Sugar Shack or a taco from Tybee Island Social Club is the perfect way to end your beach day. Huca poo’s is also fun as far as nightlife goes on the island.

If you have access to a boat, be sure to check out some of Georgia’s barrier islands. Ossabaw and Wassaw are relatively close, and they’re the perfect place for a weekend adventure. Overnight camping is possible on Ossabaw Island, but the Ossabaw Foundation must approve it first. The rivers are full of marine life; so be on the lookout for porpoises, and the occasional bull and tiger shark. But don’t worry; shark attacks are rare around Georgia.

If you don’t want to risk a run in with a shark or two, there are a few spots around town that are great for a little outdoor adventure. Skidaway Island State Park has gorgeous hiking trails, as well as bike paths and a campground.

Fort Pulaski, which is on the way to Tybee, is another great place to check out. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can even walk out to the lighthouse. Just make sure you wear shoes that you don’t mind getting covered in mud.

The art and music scenes are growing in the downtown area, and more and more people are moving to our eclectic city. On top of it all, Broughton Street is being revamped, so shopping in town will greatly improve. So, if you’re new in town or you’re just looking for something new to try, you’ve got plenty of options. It’s hard to get bored in this city.