Monterey Square
Rate this placeNearby: Chatham Square Madison Square
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Monterey Square is a historic public square located in the heart of Savannah, Georgia.
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Summary
It is one of Savannah's most picturesque squares, known for its beautiful oak trees, cobblestone streets, and fascinating architecture.
One of the top reasons to visit Monterey Square is to admire the stunning architecture of the surrounding buildings. The square is home to several historic landmarks, including the Mercer-Williams House, which was made famous by the book and movie "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." Visitors can also see the Congregation Mickve Israel, a historic synagogue that dates back to 1878.
Another must-see attraction in Monterey Square is the large monument at its center, which commemorates the life and accomplishments of Revolutionary War hero and Savannah native Casimir Pulaski. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely stroll around the square, taking in the beautiful scenery and soaking up the ambiance of historic Savannah.
Interesting facts about Monterey Square include that it is named after the Battle of Monterey, a key battle in the Mexican-American War, and that it was once the site of a local market and a popular gathering place for Savannah's African American community.
The best time of year to visit Monterey Square is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and comfortable for walking around the city. However, Savannah's mild climate makes it a year-round destination, with plenty to see and do no matter what time of year you visit.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Chatham Square
Madison Square
Calhoun Square
Pulaski Square
Whitefield Square