Art Is Everywhere in Savannah
One of the things I love most about living in Savannah is that art is everywhere. It’s in the historic squares, the ironwork balconies, even in the way Spanish moss sways over cobblestone streets. But if you want a one-of-a-kind type of experience, head downtown to Gutstein Gallery, one of the Savannah College of Art and Design’s (SCAD) gems tucked right on Broughton Street.
How I Discovered Gutstein Gallery
I literally stumbled upon it because I was looking at Leopold’s Ice Cream selections on a sidewalk sandwich board and I saw it across the street.
First Impressions of the Gallery
From the outside, the three-story building looks more like a modern classroom or administrative space than an art destination. Its creamy façade blends right into the rest of downtown. I’ll admit, I was being a little nosy, peeking into a classroom where a professor was giving a web design lecture (her PowerPoint gave it away). That’s when a security guard stepped out and asked if I was looking for the art gallery. I wasn’t far—just twenty feet from the entrance—so I wandered over.
Inside Gutstein: A SCAD Art Experience
The moment I stepped through the doors, I felt like I had been transported into a small New York City gallery. Inside, Gutstein reveals its true identity: a space dedicated to rotating exhibitions that highlight the talent of SCAD alumni and students, all curated by SCAD Art Sales.
Rotating Exhibits and Accessible Art
That means every time you visit, you’re stepping into a fresh perspective. One week you might find yourself captivated by large-scale paintings, the next by sculptural pieces that make you think about shadow and space in an entirely new way. I learned that pieces range in price from $200 to $40,000.
Why Gutstein Gallery Feels So Approachable
What I appreciate most is the gallery’s scale. It isn’t overwhelming. Instead, it feels approachable—I found myself giggling a few times at artists’ interpretation of our world. When I’m in art galleries or museums, I find the best way to experience the space is to be “light” and comfortable. I hate to be weighed down with bulky pocketbooks. One of my all-time favorite travel backpacks, the Bellroy Lite Daypack, happens to be Travel and Leisure Magazine’s “best overall pick.”
Another perk? Admission is free and the gallery is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. So whether you’re planning a dedicated art walk or just weaving it into your downtown stroll, it’s an easy and inspiring stop.
Pair Your Visit With Coffee at Press Café
And here’s my insider tip: pair your visit with a stop at Press, the SCAD café located just inside Jen Library, right next door. It’s wickedly creative and I loved the retro vibe of the space where you can enjoy a cappuccino or pastry.
Local Tips for Your First Visit to Gutstein Gallery
If you’re planning your first visit, here are a few local suggestions:
- Start your morning at Press with coffee. Enjoy the whimsical environment and all of the magazines. Plus, there are precious vintage toys and games located inside alcoves that will bring a smile to your face. Then wander into Gutstein Gallery ready to explore.
- Check SCAD’s website to see everything to see at SCAD—you’ll always find something new.
- Take your time. The gallery isn’t huge, and that’s the beauty of it. Let yourself linger.
- Explore Savannah’s commercial hub. Gutstein is on the east end of Broughton Street, so you’re just steps away from boutiques, restaurants, and more SCAD buildings worth peeking into.
- Bonus Points. If you’re there after 11 a.m., it’s a great excuse to hop across the street to Leopold’s Ice Cream before the line starts to build.
Why Gutstein Gallery Captures the Spirit of Savannah
For me, Gutstein Gallery embodies what makes Savannah so special. It’s historic yet modern, intimate yet globally connected, and always brimming with creativity. Visiting feels less like checking off a tourist stop and more like being invited into a conversation with artists who are shaping the future. And, of course, if you want to explore beyond Broughton Street, you should book a Walking Tour with a professional local guide to see Savannah’s Historic District, one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the United States.
Final Thoughts: Make Gutstein Gallery Part of Your Savannah Trip
So the next time you’re downtown, pop in. Wander the gallery, grab a coffee, and let yourself be surprised by what you discover. That’s the beauty of Savannah—you never quite know what inspiration is waiting around the corner.
Looking for more things to do in Savannah? Check out my One Day in Savannah write-up and printable Savannah 3-Day itinerary for the best spots to explore on your next visit.
