Savannah's St. Patrick's Day Parade: Best Viewing Spots Revealed

From the parade's start to the city's historic squares, locals share top spots to catch the annual celebration.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Savannah's iconic St. Patrick's Day parade is a must-see event, featuring lively floats, marching bands, and the skirling sounds of bagpipes. With numerous viewing options along the parade route, locals share their favorite spots to take in the festivities, from the parade's start at Gwinnett and Abercorn to the picturesque squares and the area near the Pirate's House and Brice Kimpton Hotel.

Why it matters

Savannah's St. Patrick's Day parade is a longstanding tradition dating back over 200 years, drawing thousands of revelers to the city's historic streets each year. Knowing the best vantage points can make all the difference in fully experiencing the parade's energy and pageantry.

The details

The parade's start at Gwinnett and Abercorn is a prime spot, as the Grand Marshall and their family are greeted by well-wishers. The area near the Pirate's House and Brice Kimpton Hotel offers great views as the parade turns onto Bay Street, with participants waving beads and noisemakers. The city's historic squares, like Lafayette Square, provide a more comfortable experience with shade, food, and a picturesque backdrop of downtown Savannah. Bleacher seating is also available in front of the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist and along Bay Street.

  • The parade starts at the intersection of Gwinnett and Abercorn, with the best views in the early morning hours before 8 a.m.
  • The parade turns onto Bay Street, offering great views near the Pirate's House and Brice Kimpton Hotel.

The players

Claudia McGee

A local who has attended the parade multiple times and recommends the area near the Pirate's House and Brice Kimpton Hotel as a prime viewing spot.

Harrison Key

A local who has celebrated the parade in Lafayette Square for years, noting the square's picturesque views and the energy of the passing bands.

Kelly Tours Gray Line

A tour company offering bleacher seating tickets for the parade, with options in front of the Cathedral, Colonial Park Cemetery, and along Bay Street.

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What they’re saying

“The hotel offers tickets for their private pool area, food, drinks and bathrooms. We drag our chairs and cooler to a good spot right in the street near the median and have plenty of room and see the whole parade without restricted views. This is our third year and we have other friends who told us to shoot for that location.”

— Claudia McGee (savannahnow.com)

“You are in the heart of the parade. The people in the parade still have energy. The coolest part is when the bands see the cathedral. Their eyes get big because it is their first time seeing the cathedral too. The cathedral looks like something out of a movie.”

— Harrison Key (savannahnow.com)

The takeaway

Savannah's St. Patrick's Day parade is a beloved tradition that offers a variety of prime viewing spots, from the parade's lively start to the picturesque city squares. Whether you prefer the energy of the parade's turn onto Bay Street or the comfort of a shaded square, there are plenty of options to fully immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.