Savannah locals share what the city is missing—from Trader Joe’s to live music venues, family-friendly activities, and more. See what made the list!
Last week, we asked our readers: What’s something Savannah is missing? And, well… some answers were loud and clear.
If there’s one thing Savannah locals seem to agree on, it’s this—where’s our Trader Joe’s? Over a dozen responses made it clear that people are ready for the beloved grocery chain to set up shop in town.
“Why is there no Trader Joe’s in Savannah?” one reader asked, echoing a sentiment repeated again and again. Another added, “We have plenty of grocery stores, but Trader Joe’s just hits different.”
If you’ve ever wondered why Savannah doesn’t have one, we covered that here: Why Savannah Still Doesn’t Have a Trader Joe’s.
While Trader Joe’s was the most requested store, some readers had other ideas, too. “Savannah needs an Apple Store,” one reader wrote, while another called for an IKEA or Muji to bring more modern, affordable furniture to the area. Another reader mentioned that a nice mall is much needed in Savannah.
On the dining side, a Cheesecake Factory and a P.F. Chang’s were the two chain restaurants that kept coming up. And for those who weren’t looking for a national brand, one reader said: “A Spanish tapas restaurant. That’s what we need.”
Another reader had a more general take: “All we’re getting is more restaurants and chain stores. We need more small boutiques with local vendors.”
Savannah’s got plenty of green space, but some locals feel like kid-friendly entertainment is lacking.
“There should be A LOT more water-based activities,” one reader said. “Boat rides, kayaking, swimming, tours, crab trapping, beach days—it’s Savannah, after all!”
A few other requests? A full-scale water park, a Six Flags, and more places for kids to play that aren’t just Chuck E. Cheese.
One idea stood out for its simplicity: “A few city-licensed (clean) hot dog carts in Forsyth Park and select squares around town. Nothing fancy, just steamed dogs, chips, and soda to enjoy on a park bench.”
Live music in Savannah is solid, but some readers feel like it could be better. “More concerts, more festivals, just more options in general,” one response read.
Beyond food and entertainment, some responses pointed to affordable housing, higher-paying jobs, and public safety.
“The cost of living here is high, but wages aren’t,” one reader pointed out. Another mentioned, “MORE POLICE at every corner—there’s too much gun violence on Ott, Harmon, and other areas.”
Trash and infrastructure were also common themes. “Savannah needs more trash cans and sidewalks in residential areas, especially on the south side,” one person wrote.
