Telfair Square
Rate this placeNearby: Wright Square Orleans Square
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Telfair Square is one of the historic squares located in Savannah, Georgia.
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Summary
It is a charming and picturesque destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the city's rich history and architectural beauty. With its lush greenery, stunning monuments, and captivating attractions, Telfair Square is a must-visit for anyone exploring Savannah.
One of the main reasons to visit Telfair Square is its historical significance. It was named after the Telfair family, who played a vital role in shaping the city's cultural and artistic heritage. The square is surrounded by well-preserved historic buildings, including the Telfair Academy, which houses an extensive collection of fine art and decorative arts.
A notable point of interest within Telfair Square is the Telfair Academy. Built in the early 19th century, it is one of the oldest public art museums in the South. Visitors can explore its remarkable art collection, which includes works by renowned artists such as Asher B. Durand, Mary Cassatt, and Childe Hassam.
Another significant attraction in the square is the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters. This historic home provides a glimpse into the lives of both the wealthy families who lived there and the enslaved individuals who served them. It is an educational and eye-opening experience, shedding light on the region's complex history.
Aside from the historical landmarks, Telfair Square also offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Visitors can relax on the park benches, surrounded by beautiful oak trees and well-maintained gardens. It is a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy a picnic or leisurely stroll.
Interestingly, Telfair Square was once the site of a public market, where people would gather to buy and sell goods. Today, the square remains a vibrant gathering place for locals and tourists alike, hosting various events and festivals throughout the year.
Choosing the best time to visit Telfair Square depends on personal preferences. Savannah's climate is generally mild, but it can get hot and humid in the summer. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal times to explore the square. Additionally, winter can be a charming time to visit, as the square is adorned with festive decorations during the holiday season.
To ensure the accuracy of the information provided, it is recommended to cross-reference multiple independent sources such as official tourism websites, travel guides, and historical records.
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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
Wright Square
Orleans Square
Johnson Square
Chippewa Square
Oglethorpe Square