City to Coast: Our Mother-Son Road Trip From Atlanta to Savannah
- Brittney Ave
- Jun 21
- 16 min read
Updated: Jun 26
After a long stretch of the same ol’ routine. School, home, dinner, sleep, repeat. Cree and I were both feeling that itch to unplug and just do our own thing. I had a road trip in mind for a while, and with spring break finally here (yes, I'm sharing this two months later), it felt like the perfect time to make it happen. It had been way too long since our last real getaway, and with life doing what it does (life'n), I knew we needed something slow, simple, and minimal spending.
As someone who feels like she's always living in survival mode, and always managing anxiety, I kept thinking about the one place that relaxes me, the beach. There’s just something about the open water that calms me, and makes me feel like, well, my Self. My body feels relaxed, my mind open and at ease. So we packed up the Mazda, and hit the road for a mother-son road trip to Savannah.
SUNDAY
Before We Hit The Road
Because I don’t play when it comes to food, especially with my vegan-ish 8-year-old, I typically pack food for all of our trips. Cree is what I like to call "particular." You know, instead of "picky." Being a mindful mama, he eats all organic, plant focused meals, with the taste buds of well, an 8-year-old. That means he will only eat certain things, and once he’s locked in, he’ll eat those same few foods on repeat like his favorite playlist. And because he’s a growing boy, he’s ALWAYS hungry. So when I started planning this road trip, I knew two things: I had to keep things simple, not just for him but for me, and I also wanted to stay mindful of costs. That meant bringing as much of our own food as possible. Trying to hunt down "vegan," Cree and mom-approved food, is an exhausting task! So here's what I did. I packed:
A travel-size cooler for easy snacking on the road access (freshly washed strawberries, apples, vegan gummies and more)
A medium cooler in the trunk filled with refrigerated food. This was all the prep-prepared food I planned to store in the fridge once we arrived, and would just cook/heat up on the stove top. Breakfast, lunch and dinner options. Black beans, rice, pasta sauce, with pre-cooked pasta, fresh fruit and veggies like broccoli and cabbage.
A Whole Foods bag full of dry goods (chips, granola, vegetable broth, just to list a few)
The Drive From Atlanta to Savannah
Preparation and comfort is key when you’re road-tripping (or traveling in general) especially with a kid, and so is being over-prepared, especially with food. Just before we headed to Savannah, we stopped for lunch in EAV (East Atlanta Village) for his favorite beans and rice. I had tacos. Once our bellies were full, we headed east. I also made sure to have a neck pillow, Cree's favorite blanket, and his favorite sleep companion, Bubbles. A shark-cat hybrid plushie with main character energy.
From Atlanta to Savannah is about 250 miles, which takes around 4 hours, but it felt longer, at first. I hit that sleepy, I-might-need-a-nap wall before we were even halfway through. So what did I do? Slapped my face a few times, hummed really loudly (that actually made me sleepier), and rolled the windows down thinking the fresh air would do me some good. When that didn't work, I decided to cranked the music ALL THE WAY UP. Some Michael Jackson, a little Prince, and other artist/songs that were in that stay awake and dance vibe, all while remaining Cree friendly. No profanity, no sexual, violent or explicit language. It turned into a whole karaoke on wheels. It helped time fly by, and I stayed wide awake and surprisingly energized the rest of the ride.
I was laser-focused on getting us there, so we only made one real stop out of necessity. Gas, coffee (regrettable), and a bathroom break for Cree. Fun fact, gas station coffee isn’t it. Since I’m not a regular coffee drinker, the only expectation I had was caffeine, but I still wanted it to taste good. For some odd reason, it didn't occur to me that gas station coffee would taste like dirt water, but at the same time, it wasn't like my expectations were super high. Either way, I know better for next time to prepare my own to-go.
My Undeniable Mom Hacks for Boy Moms
One of my greatest boy mom travel hacks is the urinal cup I keep in my driver’s side door. If you’re a boy mom, you know, when they have to go, it’s RIGHT NOW. This little lifesaver has rescued me more times than I can count, including the additional time Cree had to go but I did not feel like stopping!
Cree also had his iPad plus a newly installed car tray, which made it easier for him to chill, snack, and play his games. Since we had a big lunch right before we left, those well-packed snacks went untouched, but I know it’s better to have them than not have them. I'm a "just in case" kind of lady.
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Four Hours Later, We Finally Arrived!
When I started planning this trip, I went back and forth between staying at a hotel or an Airbnb. Hotels are cool, depending on the situation but, with all things considered, I knew for this trip, Airbnb was the best move. Parking was included, no resort fees, and I wanted the kind of personal space and amenities you just don’t get in a hotel room.
Having privacy, a separate living room, and a full kitchen was a necessity this trip. Being able to cook, lounge, and move freely made all the difference.
Our Spot: Comfortable, Clean, and Worth the Expense
The Airbnb I landed on checked all my boxes, and then some. It had the essentials, plus awesome extras like a porch swing that Cree just LOVED. It was super clean, quiet, and felt safe. Side bar, I'm always on high alert, and mindful of my surroundings. Maybe it's the childhood trauma, maybe it's mom life, or maybe it's a combination of both. Either way it took me a little time but I eventually felt chill enough to categorize the location as a safe space.
It averaged about $115 a night. A four night stay, Sunday-Thursday, including cleaning fee and taxes, $800 total. I also grabbed travel insurance just to be safe, because if life and motherhood has taught me anything, it’s that you never know what might pop up.
We stayed in what I can only describe as the cutest little spot, The Pink Cottage, managed by Lucky Savannah Vacation Rentals. The photos and location description (with a bit of research) helped me decide, but once we got there, a total vibe! It’s located in an adorable community called Village on the Bluff in Thunderbolt, GA. It's a cozy, coastal nook that sits perfectly between everything. About 20 minutes from Tybee Island's North Beach and 20 minutes from all the action in Savannah. It really felt like the perfect home base.
My Favorite Things
The access code entry. No key to keep up with, and check-in was super easy. The cottage was tucked in a quiet, family-friendly area with good parking and a sense of safety.
Inside? A full kitchen, washer and dryer, two TVs, and that pink abstract wallpaper that I may or may not still be thinking about! It was triggering all the happy feelings! Everything was so thoughtfully set up. It didn’t feel like a rental, it felt like our own place for a few days.
One Tiny Hiccup
Finding it the first time was a bit of a scavenger hunt. The pathway leading to the cottage was kind of hidden, and I definitely drove past it more than once. But shoutout to my pal for spotting the path and helping me play detective! Once we found it, it was smooth sailing from there.
A Quick Taste of Tybee
After checking in, there was no way we were just going to chill inside, not when the beach was only 20 minutes away. We were both too excited, so we hopped back in the car and made our way to Tybee Island's North Beach for a quick preview of what was in store. I didn’t plan to stay long, just wanted to see the water.
That 30-minute beach moment was everything! Cree ran around, and built a, I don't know, something, while I soaked in the view, just happy at how excited he was. It was the perfect “we made it” moment.
Right after our mini beach detour, we walked over to North Beach Bar and Grill. It's a super chill spot right off the beach. I didn't have it in me to cook this evening, so this made dinner super convenient. The vibe was casual, decent food, and friendly service. Two virgin strawberry daiquiris, (with a shot of reposado on the side for me), I had a chicken caesar salad, with Cree eating french fries, and a piece of a grilled cheese sandwich. We talked, people watched, then I drove the 20 minutes back to our cottage. We showered, then cozied up in the bed and fell asleep watching Moana.
MONDAY
Full Beach Day: Sand, Snacks & a Canopy Fail
We ate breakfast, put on beachwear, and headed straight to the beach! Back at Tybee Island's North Beach, I attempted to make our day as comfortable as possible.
First task, put up canopy. I was so looking forward to this! I researched and landed on this Neso Grande Beach Tent I found on Amazon. The reviews are great, along with some great insight about what to expect and how to actually use it. It's super cute, and well, I had high hopes. However, once it was time to actually install it, it was not doing what they said it was going to do. It just kept falling. The poles wouldn't stay in place, and the fabric wouldn't keep it in place. I followed the directions and advice to OVER FILL the bags with sand, but no, just no. I couldn't figure out what I was doing wrong. Perhaps it was the wind, but clearly there was something I was missing. A really kind couple near by attempted to help but, even with all four of us (including Cree) trying to hold the poles in place, and over fill the bags, the canopy just kept collapsing! Ultimately I gave up. It was cutting into my chill time. The idea is great though, and the Amazon reviews contradict my experience, so I say maybe try it for yourself, and let me know how it goes.
I also bought a beach "blanket," which was a partial fail. It was useful and got the job done, however, it wasn't exactly a "blanket" as advertised. It was more like a tarp. Actually, it was definitely like a tarp. A very thin tarp. It came with pegs that wouldn't stay in place without something weighing them down into the sand, but again, it got the job done. All in all, not something I would use again but would recommend to keep the on the beach.
Our set-up wasn’t as Pinterest-perfect I had imagined, but we still enjoyed ourselves. Cree spent most of the time chasing waves, and I got to just sit back and watch. He didn’t need much from me other than the occasional cheer from the sidelines.
While we spent the day at North Beach, I definitely made a mental note to come back to explore more of Tybee next time. Back River Beach, South Beach, and even Little Tybee Island are still on my "things to experience" list.
North Beach had a super relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. It wasn’t packed or overwhelming. It definitely gave a more laid-back locals and chill vacationers vibe. It was cleanish, felt safe, and like the kind of place where you can just breathe. No party chaos, no crowded boardwalk, just waves, sunshine, and space to exist.
Ma Tips
Stay close to the entrance. Pulling a wagon full of stuff across the sand was giving CrossFit. I embraced it for the mini workout that it was, but I can't say that I was prepared for the sweat. Cree pulled it as far as he could along the bridge leading to the beach, but I had to pull it across the sand to our set-up location.
Staying near the entry also made it easier to access the bathrooms, which were conveniently located near North Beach Bar & Grill (where we ate the night before).
The Tybee Lighthouse was also in close proximity but, we skipped it because, in Cree’s words, “I have no interest in being 40 feet in the air.” LOL! It's definitely much higher than but you get the point. Cree doesn't do heights. Also near by is the Tybee Marine Science Center, which we circled back to later in the trip.
Later that evening we kept it really simple. I prepared the food I bought in the cooler, pasta with a side of steamed broccoli and fresh fruit. We showered, then relaxed with popcorn and a movie.
TUESDAY
A Day in Savannah
Savannah, Georgia has been on my “things to experience” list for a while now. I don’t know what it is exactly. Maybe it’s the way it looks in pictures or the way people talk about it, but something about it has always had me curious. Everyone talks about the charm and history, and honestly? So true. It felt like walking onto a movie set. Very Hallmark channel. The moss-draped trees, the cobblestone streets, the old buildings that have definitely seen some things, and lived through some stories.
I wanted to see a lot without doing a lot. I didn't want to wear us out, so when I discovered the Old Town Trolley Tour, I was all over it, total game-changer. It’s a hop-on, hop-off bus situation that loops around all the key spots in the city. No stress, no looking for parking or parallel parking headaches. Just ease. The trolley tour drivers doubled as guides, sharing history and quirky local stories that made the ride entertaining, educational, and memorable. There are 15 stops total, but we only hopped off at four. Here’s what we got into.
The American Prohibition Museum
Our first choice (MY first choice) was to hop off was at City Market. Located in downtown Savannah, it's four blocks of shops, restaurants, and home to The American Prohibition Museum.
I wasn’t expecting to geek out over this, but the bartender and history buff in me found this place so interesting and so fun! It’s the only museum in the country dedicated to Prohibition and I think it's a must do for anyone visiting Savannah. There are vintage cars, storytelling, and mannequin wax figures that are low-key creepy but cool. Also cool, you end the tour in a speakeasy where they’ll mix you a classic cocktail from the 1920s. Yes, it was noon, but I couldn't leave without fulling diving into the experience.
Cree being, well, an eight-year-old kid, didn't find it as interesting or as entertaining as I did, but there were some parts he enjoyed. Some of the story telling and seeing the artifacts were cool for him, but not something he'd want to do again. He also enjoyed a mocktail with me at the end.
Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist
This place is beautiful. Like, you walk in and immediately whisper “whoa” even if you're not religious. Giant stained-glass windows, high ceilings, gold accents, it feels peaceful and kind of magical inside. We only stayed about 10–15 minutes, but it was a nice little moment and something worth seeing.
It’s free, but a donation helps keep it open and beautiful. Totally worth it.
Midday Vibes at Forsyth Park
This park is so pretty! I knew I wanted to stop here because I'd heard about the famous Forsyth Fountain, and how cool, beautiful and historic it is. And because I'm a sucker for art, and anything that showcases what we humans can create, I had to see it. You can read more about the history behind it here, but trust me, it's one of those things that hits different when you see it in person. Cree thought it was cool too, and of course we took advantage of the must have photo opt.
Bonus! While we were on the hunt for popsicles, we stumbled upon a very live playground. Kids everywhere! Ages six-months to 12-years-old, just living their best playground life. Cree of course jumped right in. He made new friends, and even tried to adopt a caterpillar as a new pet. I gently explained why the caterpillars needed to stay in their home, and to my surprise, he didn't even argue!
Fast forward, once we left the playground, we stopped for a quick bathroom break, and mid-pee, I look down and BOOM, there's a caterpillar on my sleeve. I almost lost it. I'm not afraid of caterpillars, it was just that natural suprise of finding a bug on you. Cree, hearing my shriek from the other side of the door, asked what happened. I told him. He goes, "Maybe its a sign he supposed to be with me." And you know what? I couldn't argue. So yes, we got a leaf, and the caterpillar came with us. Back onto the trolley, to see more of Savannah.
Last Stop: River Street
River Street is where we stopped to eat, and prepare for the Ghost and Graveyards tour. The tour wasn't a part of the initial plan but Cree was interested. River Street is full of when you're ready to eat, shop, and maybe get a little lost in a good way. It runs along the Savannah River, and the old warehouse buildings are now filled with restaurants, bars, candy shops, and other cool random stores.
We grabbed some lunch from Lizzy's Burgers, then realized how tired we were. We walked for a bit, then decided to reschedule the Ghost and Graveyards tour for the following evening. We stuck around waiting for the next trolley to take us back to the car. Meanwhile we watched boats and cargo ships pass by, made some new friends, and Cree climbed a tree. It was nice.
Why the Trolly Was Worth
A lot of Savannah is walkable, but the trolley made everything easier. The hopping off and on is great, and the guides actually make the ride fun. Plus, no hunting for parking or any of the general stress of driving in an unknown city.
Would I Do It Again? Absolutely.
Savannah is one of those cities you could come back to over and over and still find something new each time. This trip was the perfect intro. If you're planning a trip, do yourself a favor and book the trolley. It’s the easiest way to get the lay of the land.
WEDNESDAY
After a packed Tuesday full of sightseeing, we decided to slow things down a bit on Wednesday. Sometimes, the best vacation days include absolutely nothing on the agenda. Just comfy clothes, and nowhere to be.
We spent the morning lounging in our Airbnb. Ate breakfast, I tidied up and reorganized a bit, watched some tv and just chilled.
Meeting Up with New Friends
Later in the day, we headed back to Tybee Island's North Beach to meet up with some new friends we’d made the day before. It was one of those spontaneous travel connections. Mom's with boys around the same age, compliments on hair, then boom, you’ve got activity buddies. That’s the beauty of a trip like this, strangers become part of the story.
Tybee Island Round Two: Marine Science Center Visit
This place is small, but very enjoyable. It’s right near the beach and is all about local marine life, conservation, and education, in a fun, hands-on kind of way. There were touch tanks where you can gently feel hermit crabs, and exhibits that show what’s living just beyond the sand. We learned about loggerhead turtles, saw some starfish, a baby alligator, and left with a little more appreciation for the local ocean life. It’s perfect for families or just nature nerds like us. Bonus: it's affordable and supports marine conservation.
Ending the Day with the Ghost & Gravestones Tour
As the evening approached, we traded beach vibes for something darker, the Ghosts & Gravestones Tour with Old Town Trolley Tours. Savannah is apparently one of the most haunted cities in America, and whether you believe in ghosts or just love a good story, this tour turned out to be a lot of fun.
We boarded the trolley around six o'clock (sun still out), and our guide was equal parts hilariously animated. Starting on River Street, we rolled past old mansions with dark histories, and heard tales of restless spirits, mysterious deaths, and haunted happenings. The best part? The tour includes stops inside some haunted spots. We went into a "haunted" home/museum, where toured the space and learned the history. Even if you’re a skeptic like me (yes, and no), it’s another fun, immersive way to see the city. I'm sure it's especially better at night, but I opted for the earliest tour possible because, even though it was Cree's idea, I knew it was better to let him experience it with the sun still out. We're also good at being in bed by 9:00 PM at the latest. The stories stuck with us for a little bit so we were a little afraid that evening back in our Airbnb.
Low-Key, High Vibes
All in all, Wednesday was the perfect mix of chill and thrill. We took our time in the morning, hung out with new friends, learned a little about sea life, and got just the right amount of scared to label it a full Savannah experience. Savannah has a way of letting you do everything or nothing, and still feel like you made the most of the day.
THURSDAY
Thursday morning came with that quiet, slightly bittersweet vibe you get on the last day of a trip. When it's time to repack the suitcase, the fridge gets emptied, and you do one last sweep of the Airbnb to make sure you didn’t forget a charger or a pair of flip-flops under the couch. We took our time packing, moving slowly through the motions like we weren’t quite ready to let the trip go just yet. It’s funny how even a place you only stay in for a few days can start to feel like a little temporary home. Folding up the beach towels, zipping up the bags, loading the car, it all came with a mix of satisfaction and that low-key sadness that vacation is officially winding down.
Before hitting the road back to Atlanta, we gave the Airbnb a final tidy-up, took one last look around the space, and then hit the road with the playlist set to mellow road trip vibes.
A Moment to Reflect
The drive gave us time to reflect. Not just on the places we saw, but the feelings that came with them. Savannah wasn’t just about the history and the ghost stories (though those were incredible), and Tybee wasn’t just about the beach (though, let’s be honest, we’d teleport back there in a heartbeat). It was about slowing down. Watching sunsets without rushing. Taking things day by day, moment by moment.
There’s something about a trip like this that fills you up in a different way. It reminds you to appreciate the quiet mornings, the random detours. We left with memories, sea shells, and a caterpillar now named Henry.
Until Next Time
As we pulled into Atlanta, city life came back into focus. Traffic, schedules, and to-do lists waiting for us. But the events from this trip stuck. It reminded us (me) that it’s okay to unplug, to wander, to not have every minute planned. And when you find a place that lets you breathe a little easier, you hold on to that feeling — and maybe start planning your return before you’ve even unpacked.
Savannah, you were something special.
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