Back in "the good old days," there was an exemption allowing 18-20 year olds into bars to see live music, but that changed in early 2006 and hasn't been up for discussion since; leaving a noticeable dearth of activities for underclassmen.
Savannah might be a great drinking town, but what good is that if you're 19, new in town, and have yet to meet an upperclassman who can buy you beer (we don't endorse that behavior, but let's all admit it happens).
Fret not, as Bob Dylan once sang, "the times, they are a changin'," and these days a new crop of spots have popped up around town that offer better opportunities than sitting in your dorm room playing video games.
The Co-Laboratory
What: A few former SCAD students opened this gallery and studio space in early 2010 and immediately drew crowds for their eclectic art openings. More recently, they've begun hosting a variety of all-ages music shows featuring local favorites like Cusses or General Oglethorpe and the Panhandlers as well as touring acts from all over the place. Also be sure to check out their monthly short film screenings and drawing classes.
Where: 631 E. Broad St. (Corner of E. Broad and Hall)
Info: zecolab.tumblr.com
Muse Arts Warehouse
What: This converted warehouse space was the former home of Cardinal Rep and the Little Theatre of Savannah. On the brink of oblivion, the space was rescued by local arts advocate JinHi Soucy Rand and converted to a multi-purpose space that now hosts a regular schedule of plays, movies, music and other events. On Mondays, check out the Odd Lot Improv Comedy troupe, who create a new show every week based on crowd suggestions.
Where: 703 D Louisville Rd.
Info: www.musesavannah.org
The Sentient Bean
What: The long time torch bearer for all-ages events in Savannah, this coffee shop on the South end of Forsyth Park offers up something new every night of the week. Film screenings, live music (from folk to electronic and beyond), spoken word poetry, and art openings are just some of what you'll find. On Wednesdays, catch rare, "so-bad-they're-good" films hosted by the Psychotronic Film Society of Savannah.
Where: 13 E. Park Ave.
Info: www.sentientbean.com
Studio 2-Ten
What: The newest addition to Savannah, this gallery and studio space doesn't keep as regular a calendar as the rest of the aforementioned spaces, but it did debut last month with an impressive evening featuring work from four local artists and music from two bands visiting from Washington D.C. It features working studios, gallery space and a small stage all available for lease.
Where: 210 W. Victory Dr.
Info: (email) [email protected]
