Built in Savannah’s Federal architectural style, Davenport House was the family home of master-builder Isaiah Davenport from 1820 until his death in 1827. More than a century later, when it was threatened with demolition, it was purchased and converted into a museum by the Historic Savannah Foundation.
Visitors can admire its 1820s-style interior on guided tours, as self-guided exploration isn’t permitted. For a super-easy visit minus any transport fuss, book a hop-on hop-off trolley tour—they stop right outside—or a tour that covers the museum and other Savannah sights on foot or by Segway. Alternatives include combos of Historic District walks and trolley tours and minivan tours with Savannah River cruises. Savannah ghost and architecture-themed walks also showcase the museum.
The Davenport House Museum stands on East State Street on Columbia Square in the Savannah Historic District. Get there using the city’s fare-free DOT shuttles—take the Forsyth Loop, which stops near Columbia Square—or the #10, #11, #14, #27, #28, or #31 routes on its CAT bus network. Hop-on hop-off trolleys stop outside the museum. If you’re driving, parking and parking garages are available nearby.
The museum is open throughout the year, but is closed during certain public holidays and special events such as St. Patrick’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, December 25, January 1, and for much of January. Tours start at the top of each hour, and it’s sensible to arrive in ample time beforehand, especially in summer.
While the guides on the tours will note points of interest, it may still be easy to miss some interesting details. Aside from the stunningly turned staircase and ornate plasterwork, the house is filled with touches that evoke the 1820s and bygone Savannah—from intricately patterned wallpapers and authentic children’s toys to a 1920s drawing of the house by local artist Christopher Murphy.
