Savannah Memories: A Family Getaway to Remember

 

In 2016, my family and I took a much-needed trip to Savannah, Georgia, and it turned out to be one of those timeless memories you carry in your heart forever. We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, right on the riverfront—just steps from the buzz of the Riverwalk. From the moment we checked in, the hotel felt like a retreat within the city. The rooms were comfortable, the amenities plentiful (yes, we peeked into the workout room, even if we didn’t stay long), and the coffee shop downstairs was a hit—especially thanks to the baristas who seemed to know how to make mornings feel magical.

Savannah itself felt like something out of a storybook. We strolled the Riverwalk, stopping at local shops, picking up little treasures and chatting with vendors who made us feel like locals. One of the best parts? We walked at night and felt completely safe—the cobblestone streets and historic buildings glowing under the streetlamps gave everything a soft, charming kind of calm. We even took a riverboat ride, which offered a whole new view of the city and some much-needed fresh air.

But the highlight for me wasn’t the shops or the sightseeing—it was seeing my mother’s big smile as she looked out at the river, surrounded by her daughters and grandson. That moment alone made the trip worth every mile. Spending time with my sisters and nephew, away from the rush of everyday life, reminded me of how grounding and beautiful family time can be.

And yes, we took our time wandering down Market Street, soaking in the rhythm of the city, letting ourselves be tourists and family all at once. Savannah gave us more than a getaway—it gave us togetherness, comfort, and joy in the little things. I’ll never forget it.

History, Nature, and the Perfect Dog Walk in Macon

 

If you’ve never been to the Ocmulgee Mounds in Macon, Georgia, you’re truly missing a hidden gem. This place carries thousands of years of Native history, with ancient earth mounds that you can actually walk up and touch—it's surreal to stand where people once gathered more than a thousand years ago. I always feel a sense of peace out there, surrounded by trees, open skies, and the quiet hum of nature. The trails wind through woodlands and wetlands, and the views from the top of the Great Temple Mound are just beautiful. Best part? It’s one of the best places to take your dog for a walk. My pup absolutely loves it—there’s room to roam, plenty of shade, and we always meet other friendly dog walkers along the way. It's free to visit, and it’s open most days of the year, which makes it a perfect little getaway without having to go far. Whether you're into history, hiking, or just need a peaceful spot to walk your dog, Ocmulgee Mounds is one of my favorite places to unwind.

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park is full of quiet beauty, and one of its most underrated features is the many small bridges that guide you through its winding trails. These wooden footbridges cross over creeks, marshy wetlands, and low-lying forest floors, connecting different parts of the park like stepping stones through time. Some are simple, flat planks while others curve gently over streams, giving you a perfect view of the water below—especially after a good rain.

If you're walking with your dog or taking kids along, the bridges add a fun, interactive element to the journey. And if you enjoy photography or just peaceful moments, standing on one of these bridges while the sun filters through the trees can be incredibly grounding. They're not just practical—they're part of what makes Ocmulgee Mounds such a magical place to explore.

As you walk, especially along the River and Heritage Trails, you’ll notice how these bridges not only help you stay dry, but also invite you to slow down and appreciate the sounds of trickling water, chirping birds, and rustling leaves. They give a kind of rhythm to your walk—crossing from one section of nature to another, almost like moving through chapters of a story.