Things To Do
in Pooler
Pooler is a fast-growing suburb west of historic Savannah, Georgia, known for its easy highway access, outlet shopping and the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum. It blends modern commercial development with suburban neighborhoods and serves as a convenient base for exploring coastal Lowcountry attractions. While much of Pooler is contemporary retail and residential zones, green spaces and nearby parks make outdoor options easy to reach.
Visitors often use Pooler as a quieter, more affordable alternative to staying inside Savannah’s historic district while remaining only a short drive from River Street and the coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the historic downtown area of Pooler, where you can stroll through quaint streets lined with charming shops and cafes. Stop by the Pooler Museum to learn about the rich history of the city, including its role in the cotton industry. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly brewed coffee and pastries while soaking in the local culture.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport area to explore the Tanger Outlets for some retail therapy. With a wide range of brand-name outlets, you can hunt for great deals on clothing, accessories, and home goods. After shopping, enjoy lunch at one of the outlet's popular dining spots, offering a variety of cuisines.
As evening approaches, unwind at a local brewery such as Southbound Brewing Company, where you can sample a selection of craft beers. Engage with locals and learn about the brewing process while enjoying a laid-back atmosphere. Consider dining at one of Pooler's renowned restaurants, where you can indulge in Southern cuisine and enjoy live music.
Start your day with a refreshing hike at the nearby Tom Triplett Community Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature on well-marked trails. Observe local wildlife, including birds and small mammals, as you walk along the serene paths surrounded by lush greenery. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the scenic lake, taking in the peaceful surroundings.
After your morning hike, spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Oatland Island Wildlife Center, where you can explore the exhibits featuring native animals and their habitats. Participate in a guided tour to learn more about the conservation efforts and the animals that call this center home. Enjoy a light lunch at the center's café while overlooking the natural beauty of the island.
Wrap up the day with a relaxing evening at the Savannah Riverfront, just a short drive from Pooler. Stroll along the river, taking in the views of the historic buildings and vibrant atmosphere as the sun sets. Choose a riverside restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes while listening to live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| ⛽Gas (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🚕Short ride-share (local) | $8-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-160 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Savannah and coastal attractions while generally more affordable and less crowded
- Good access to highways and the Savannah/Hilton Head airport
- Family-friendly parks and a growing selection of shops and restaurants
- Suburban layout makes a car necessary for most errands and sightseeing
- Limited nightlife and historic ambiance compared with downtown Savannah
- Hot, humid summers and occasional severe weather (storms, hurricanes in season)
Places to Visit in Pooler
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic aircraft, hangars and displays offer dramatic shots—especially interiors of restored planes and exterior exhibits at golden hour.
Waterfront paths, boardwalks and lakeside views ideal for sunrise, wildlife and family activity photos.
Modern architecture, signage and colorful storefronts provide urban/suburban photo opportunities, including pop-culture-themed scenes.
Marsh boardwalks, live oaks, and tidal creeks create classic Lowcountry landscape shots and wildlife photography opportunities.
Iconic Spanish moss-draped oaks, cobblestone streets, historic squares and architecture—must-visit for classic Southern photography.
Food in Pooler
Pooler Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Lowcountry staple combining locally caught shrimp with creamy stone-ground grits; available at seafood restaurants and many breakfast/brunch spots in and around Pooler.
Must-Try!
A communal dish of shrimp, corn, sausage and potatoes seasoned simply—often featured at seasonal events, seafood restaurants and some casual eateries.
A rich, creamy crab soup flavored with sherry and crab roe—served at seafood restaurants and some upscale Southern menus in the Savannah area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local farmers market (seasonal/weekend) where you can buy fresh produce, regional specialties and prepared foods—good for picnic supplies and sampling local vendors.
A short drive away in historic Savannah, these areas offer street food, casual vendors and regional snacks—great for trying pralines, ice cream and shrimp rolls while sightseeing.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Locals are generally friendly and polite—use please and thank you, greet with a smile, and expect courteous small talk in shops and restaurants.
When visiting Savannah’s historic sites, respect private property, signage and preservation rules—do not climb on monuments or remove natural features.
Pooler and surrounding areas are car-centric—observe local driving norms, yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and be patient during peak traffic times.
Safety
Tipping in Pooler
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary: 15–20% at restaurants for sit-down service, $1–2 per drink for bar service, $2–5 for hotel housekeeping per night and 10–15% for taxi/ride-share drivers depending on service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common. Small local stands or markets may prefer cash—ATMs and banks are readily available in Pooler.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid and often wet with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; expect high temperatures in the upper 80s–90s°F (30–35°C). Plan outdoor activities early or late in the day, stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity make fall (September–November) one of the best times to visit—comfortable days, cooler evenings and vibrant event calendars.
Mild winters with occasional cold snaps; temperatures typically range from the 40s–60s°F (5–15°C). Snow is rare, so outdoor attractions remain accessible year-round.
Blooming azaleas and warming weather (60s–80s°F / 15–27°C) make spring lovely for outdoor exploration, but allergy sufferers should be prepared for pollen.
Pooler at Night
Hiking in Pooler
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Trails and boardwalks through maritime forest and salt marsh with good birding, interpretive trails and scenic coastal views—about 25–30 minutes from Pooler.
Walk easy trails around Civil War earthworks, riverfront picnic spots and tidal creeks—great for history and nature combined, roughly 20–30 minutes away.
Protected marsh and tidal creek habitats with wildlife viewing and short trails—ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts; drives from Pooler vary depending on the trailhead chosen.
Local park with paved and unpaved paths around lakes and green spaces suitable for easy walks, family outings and casual jogging within Pooler.
Airports
How to reach Pooler by plane.
Primary airport serving Pooler and the Savannah metro, about a 10–15 minute drive; offers regional, national and some international flights plus rental car services and ground transportation.
Smaller regional airport located southeast of Pooler (about 45–60 minutes), useful for some regional flights; car rental options are limited compared with SAV.
Larger airport option located about 1.5–2 hours north by car; useful if seeking additional flight choices or lower fares.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families and individuals who have lived in the area for decades, often with deep ties to local schools, churches and businesses.
Pooler has attracted many young families drawn by newer housing developments, parks and schools.
Residents who commute into Savannah or work in logistics, retail and service industries in the region.
Some retirees choose Pooler for its quieter suburban feel while being close to Savannah’s amenities and coastal leisure activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
College football is widely followed in Georgia; communities rally around college teams and local sports bars broadcast games, especially during the fall season.
The coastal plain and mild climate support year-round golf—several courses in the Savannah region attract recreational players.
Recreational fishing (inshore and nearshore) and boating are popular pastimes given Pooler’s proximity to rivers, marshes and the Atlantic coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pooler.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most casual restaurants and cafes offer salads, veggie burgers and side-plate options; larger chains and newer local places frequently have vegetarian entrées—ask staff about swaps for meat-based sides.
Vegan options are available but more limited than vegetarian choices; check menus in advance and seek out cafés or health-focused spots in nearby Savannah if you need broader choices.
Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests (gluten-free buns, salads, seafood preparations); always inform servers about cross-contamination concerns if you have celiac disease.