Savannah’s coolest neighborhood, the Starland District, is a quirky haven brimming with creativity. 

I love Broughton Street — don’t get me wrong. This upscale thoroughfare, with shops like the Paris Market, the Savannah Bee Company and Urban Outfitters, has an undeniable charm. 

But I wanted something edgier, fresher and a little less polished. Enter the Starland District, a neighborhood born from the bones of an old dairy at the end of the ’90s and now pulsing with creativity.

History of the Starland District

In 1999, two SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) graduates, Patrick Shay and Eric Saller, stumbled upon the derelict Starland Dairy, a once-bustling pasteurized milk plant that had been abandoned for years. The dairy, established in the early 1900s and adorned with an iconic red star, had become a canvas for graffiti and a symbol of neglected Savannah. 

Rather than tearing it down, like any good SCAD student, they saw potential in its crumbling walls and industrial charm. With a love for historic preservation, they bought the two-block complex for a modest sum and set to work.

Their vision was simple yet radical: transform the decaying dairy into a community space for artists, creatives and entrepreneurs. Over time, the Starland Dairy became a hub for studios, galleries and workshops, injecting new life into the surrounding neighborhood. The district took its name from this centerpiece, with the “Starland” moniker honoring the dairy’s heritage.

Today, the Starland District remains an eclectic haven where SCAD students, local artists and Savannah’s quirkier residents converge. It’s colorful, messy in the best way and delightfully rebellious. Between the murals, mismatched furniture on café patios and the unmistakable hum of creativity, this neighborhood feels alive in a way that’s entirely its own. Exactly what I was craving.

Highlights of the Starland District 

Starland Strange & Bazaar

📍 17 West 41st Street

“It’s less curiosity shop and more Anthropologie,” I told Duke as we peered through the window of Starland Strange & Bazaar, closed for the day (Monday, for those taking notes). Instead of shrunken heads and oddities, we spotted racks of stylish women’s clothing and tables with boho-chic housewares. And because Starland loves a quirky twist, there’s also an ice cream shop inside.

Graveface Records & Curiosities

📍 5 West 40th Street

Part record store, part curiosity shop, Graveface is a delightful Wonderland of vinyl and weirdness. The records I was interested in were all around $20 to $30), but it was the curiosities that grabbed our attention: vintage taxidermy, antique Ouija boards and other objects you can’t decide if they’re creepy or cute. It’s like stepping into your cool goth cousin’s attic. 

Note: The Graveface Museum, located across town and owned by the same guy, showcases a fascinating collection of horror-themed artifacts, vintage pinball machines and true crime memorabilia.

Flora and Fauna

📍 2401 Bull Street

This French-inspired café sits right on the corner and feels like a postcard come to life. The Jessica’s chicken salad sandwich was great, but let me tell you about Duke’s mushroom conserve baguette: earthy, savory, life-changing. It wasn’t just a sandwich; it was a spiritual experience. Pair it with a latte and one of their delectable pastries, and soak in the sunny, vintage vibes. It’s the kind of place where you make new friends standing in line and time seems to slow down (until you realize you’ve devoured the entire baguette in under five minutes).

Starlandia

📍 2438 Bull Street

Forget those fancy-schmancy overpriced art stores; this place is an artist’s paradise. Starlandia lets you buy and sell used art supplies, so it’s a treasure hunt every time. Brushes, paints, canvases, elastic to make bracelets — they’ve got it all, often for a fraction of the cost. I even found a stash of gently used books. Oh, and don’t forget to say hi to the tiny shrimp swimming around in their tank by the register. 

Lite Foot Company

📍 2400 Bull Street

Going green has never looked so stylish. We weren’t quite sure what the Lite Foot Company was — but we certainly didn’t realize it was a go-to for eco-friendly everything. Think reusable straws, biodegradable glitter and chic tote bags that state, “I care about the planet.” It’s the kind of place that makes you want to upcycle your life and live sustainably ever after.

The Wormhole

📍 2307 Bull Street

A dive bar with personality, the Wormhole is a no-frills spot where you can catch all sorts of live music, comedy or the occasional karaoke night. It’s the kind of place where the drinks are strong, the crowd is diverse, and the vibe is unpretentious. Their lineup is always surprising — one night, it’s punk rock, the next, stand-up comedians testing their material.

Arts Southeast

📍 2301 Bull Street

Carrying the Starland torch, Arts Southeast is a dynamic hub for the city’s creative community. Established in 2014 by local artists, it offers 26 private artist studios, the Ellis Gallery for rotating exhibitions, and the On::View Artist Residency, which provides artists with high-visibility studio space to engage with the public. This nonprofit organization is  dedicated to making Savannah a cultural destination, hosting community events like the monthly First Friday Art March, fostering a vibrant and supportive environment for both emerging and established artists.

Water Witch

📍 2220 Bull Street

Water Witch tiki bar, named after the ill-fated U.S.S. Water Witch — a Civil War-era gunboat with a reputation for attracting bad luck — channels its legendary spirit into bold cocktails and an unforgettable atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Mai Tai or something bold and original, this is where your taste buds get to travel. Soak in the island-inspired charm, perfect for date night or catching up with friends — no SPF required. 

The Vault Kitchen & Market

📍 2112 Bull Street

Housed in a renovated historic bank building, the Vault effortlessly blends industrial charm with sleek modern design. The menu is just as inspired as the setting, featuring everything from sushi rolls to dumplings to creative entrées that leave your tastebuds begging for more. Whether you’re here for the incredible cocktails or the vibe, the Vault delivers. Perfect for date night or a lunch with friends, this spot is as chic as it is delicious.

Stump

📍 1612 Bull Street

Plant lovers, rejoice! Stump is a boutique plant shop specializing in rare and gorgeous greenery. Whether you’re looking for a monstera that’ll take over your living room or a low-maintenance succulent, they’ve got you covered. The staff is knowledgeable, so even if you’re a notorious plant killer, they’ll set you up for success. 

Stump also offers First Friday workshops, where plant lovers can get hands-on tips for caring for greenery, create their own terrariums, or learn the art of plant styling in a fun and welcoming setting.

Woof Gang

📍 1601 Bull Street

If you’re traveling with a furry friend — or have a special dog in your life — this place is a must. Woof Gang offers gourmet treats (think dog-friendly cupcakes), premium toys and grooming services. It’s basically a day spa for your pet.

E. Shaver Booksellers

📍 1919 Bull Street

This bookstore is a reader’s paradise. The shelves are divided into well-curated sections, and there’s a small bar in the back serving coffee and cocktails. Bonus: It’s an annex of a historic gingerbread-style home, giving it an extra layer of charm. It’s the kind of place you’ll “stop by for five minutes” and emerge from two hours later with a pile of books and a latte (or prosecco) buzz.

They host a variety of monthly book clubs by genre, including sci-fi and fantasy, romance, mystery, graphic novels and even one devoted to Jane Austen.  

Additionally, their podcast, Pull Your Shelf Together, features co-owners Melissa Taylor and Jessica Osborne discussing their latest reads and offering book recommendations.

Foxy Loxy Cafe

📍 1919 Bull Street

A sister establishment to the bookstore, the café offers Tex-Mex-inspired bites, craft coffee and a selection of wines. What sets it apart is the spacious backyard, complete with twinkling lights and fire pits — perfect for sipping a cortado or enjoying their famous tacos al fresco. They often host live music and s’more-themed Fire & Wine Saturdays, making it a true community gem.

With Love Tattoo

📍 1917 Bull Street, Suite A

Most tattoo parlors embrace the edgy in their iconography, but this one leans into the cutesy. With Love Tattoo is where artistry meets ink. Known for its diverse team of talented artists, the studio specializes in creating custom pieces tailored to each client’s unique vision — whether you’re into delicate line work, bold traditional designs or intricate black-and-grey realism. The shop’s warm, welcoming vibe makes it as inviting for first-timers as it is for tattoo veterans. Even if you’re not ready for ink, the artwork on display is worth a visit.

Neighborhood Comics

📍 1205 Bull Street

Neighborhood Comics caters to hardcore collectors and casual readers alike, with a mix of indie comics, graphic novels and pop culture merchandise. The staff is passionate and always ready to help you find your next fave read. Quirky displays are set up throughout the store — Wally was particularly smitten with the one of Deadpool as Forrest Gump.

They also feature a monthly artist-in-residence program, giving local and visiting comic artists a space to create, showcase their work and connect with fans.

Henny Penny Art Space & Cafe

📍 1514 Bull Street

This family-friendly café is equal parts cozy coffeeshop and creative playground. There’s a full menu of specialty coffees and baked goods, including vegan donuts. They regularly host art classes for kids, so parents can sip a latte while their little ones explore their inner Picasso. The art on display is often created by local children, giving the place a sweet, community-focused vibe.

Star Attractions of Starland in Savannah 

Starland District is Savannah at its quirkiest and most creative. It’s a hood where every corner holds a surprise — and possibly a new friend. So skip the usual downtown haunts and come see what all the buzz is about. –Wally