Savannah First-Timer's Guide
Plan the Perfect Trip to Savannah
When first-time visitors are trying to decide where to stay in Savannah, they often have a difficult time choosing which section of the city is best. There are so many pretty areas to explore, and each one has something unique to offer!
In this guide, I’ll break down the various sections of Savannah so you can pick a place to stay in the most convenient location for your budget. I’ve included the pros and cons for each area.
Note: This guide contains affiliate links to my trusted travel partners.
If you’re new around here, first of all…welcome!
My name is Erin, and I authored theSavannah First-Timer’s Guide. It’s a helpful ebook that summarizes all of my best insider tips about the city.
Just so you know, I tell it like it is when it comes to Savannah! That means I share both the pretty and the gritty sides of the city.
This posts mentions crime statistics, gangs, and homelessness, because those things exist around here and I don’t try to hide that fact.
Contents
Historic District | Victorian District | Starland District | Plant Riverside District | | Tybee Island
Where to Stay in Savannah
Before I do a deep dive into each section of the city, here’s a brief overview…
The most touristy areas of Savannah are River Street, Plant Riverside, Bay Street, City Market, and Broughton Street.
The southern portion of the Historic District has the most “classic Savannah” vibe. It’s extremely picturesque and charming.
The Victorian and Starland Districts are very diverse and home to many full-time residents, plus a good number of Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) students.
Tybee Island isn’t Savannah, nor does it look or feel anything like Savannah; it just happens to be the beach closest to Savannah.
This map of the Historic District shows some of the most recommended areas to stay in Savannah, but I’ll discuss each section below in detail.
1. Savannah Historic District
The Historic District is probably the most well-known district in Savannah.
Many of the places visitors are most familiar with are located in the Historic District, including River Street, City Market, Jones Street, and the northern half of Forsyth Park.
It’s truly the heart of the city!
The Historic District is where you’ll find beautiful brick-paved streets and Savannah’s many squares filled with iconic Southern oaks and Spanish moss.
I’m going to break the Historic District into a few zones, since the northern and southern ends are completely different from one another.
If your budget allows it, I 100% recommend staying within the Historic District.
The boundaries of the Historic District are as follows:
- North: River Street
- East: E Broad Street
- South: Gwinnett Street
- West: Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.
Historic District NORTH Zone: River Street
So, what makes River Street unique? A couple of things…
River Street was the original warehouse district in Savannah. It was a center for trade where ships docked and loaded up with cotton and indigo to export across the world.
The area retains much of its rustic roots — with souvenir shops, restaurants, and art galleries all still operating out of warehouses built hundreds of years ago. The history evident in this area is incredible!
While the rest of the Historic District sits high atop a bluff, River Street is the only street that sits below the bluff. It’s only a few feet above river level.
Here are a few things to consider if you choose to stay on River Street…
Pros: There are plenty of restaurants and bars, and many stay open late into the night. The container ships that pass by regularly are fun to watch! There are often talented street artists performing along the plaza. Some of the city’s prettiest sunsets can be found on River Street.
Cons: It’s one of the most touristy sections of Savannah, so it stays consistently busy and tends to get loud. The restaurants are fairly high priced and aren’t always the best Savannah has to offer. Parking is scarce and valet fees can get expensive. It’s a riverfront area, so you might see rats scurrying around near the water late at night.
Homelessness: Members of the homeless community often choose to sleep along River Street. It’s common for them to request spare change or handouts from visitors in this area.
Related Reading: 11 Photos That Will Make You Fall in Love with River Street
VERDICT: If you love watching the ships go by, seeing sunsets over the water, and want to stay in a bustling area loaded with historical significance, then River Street makes a fantastic spot.
Popular Hotels on River Street
- River Street Inn | My top choice along the waterfront!
- Olde Harbour Inn | Historic property with Southern charm
- Homewood Suites by Hilton | Rooftop pool exclusive to guests
- The Bohemian | For those who like unique properties
- Cotton Sail Hotel | Beautiful sunset views from the rooftop bar
Additionally, the Thompson Savannah is a beautiful riverfront property located in a newly developed area on the far east end of the river. It’s outside the boundaries of the Landmark Historic District, but since it doesn’t fit in any other categories, I wanted add it here.
The Plant Riverside District is another new development along River Street. It’s located on the far west end of River Street and has its own section below: Click here to skip to the Plant Riverside section.
Related Reading:
Historic District North Zone: Bay Street
Bay Street is the first street that sits high atop the bluff, 40 feet above the water.
You’d think that would mean the hotels along Bay Street would have an incredible view of the river, but that’s only true for the uppermost floors. Tree canopies and the buildings on River Street block views from the lower levels.
Here are the pros and cons of this area…
Pros: The majority of the street level retail spaces along Bay Street are filled with restaurants and bars, so you won’t have to walk far for food or drinks.
Cons: Bay Street is a high traffic zone, so you might have to deal with some street noise. You’ll also step out of your hotel onto a congested sidewalk, since there’s a lot of foot traffic in this area. Like most of the remaining zones below, you’ll have to take steep, historic steps to access River Street. There’s only one public elevator available along the entire stretch of the river. It’s located by City Hall.
Homelessness: It’s rare to find members of the homeless community sleeping along Bay Street; it’s far too busy and loud to make a great sleeping spot. Sometimes folks will sleep high up on the steps of the Customs House, but that’s about it. It’s somewhat common for people to request spare change during the daylight hours.
VERDICT: Stay in this section if you want to be between busy River Street and City Market and able to easily access all the restaurants and bars in both areas.
Popular Hotels on Bay Street
- East Bay Inn | My top pick along Bay Street!
- Hampton Inn Savannah Historic District (IHG Property) | Rooftop Pool
- Staybridge Suites Savannah Historic District (IHG Property) | Rooftop Pool
- The Drayton Hotel | Modern Boutique Hotel
- Hotel Indigo (IHG Property) | Convenient Parking Garage Nearby
- Hilton Garden Inn Historic District | Pool
- DoubleTree by Hilton | Pool
- Holiday Inn Savannah Historic District (IHG Property) | Pool
- Kimpton Brice (IHG Property) | Pet-Friendly
Historic District North Zone: City Market & Broughton Street
Another tourist hotspot in the Historic District is City Market. The market takes up a two-block radius and offer shops, restaurants, and a thriving nightlife scene.
Visit by day to check out the galleries and many talented artists, and then stick around at night for the bars and live music. W Congress Street, which borders City Market, is known as an entertainment/bar zone.
Broughton Street is considered Savannah’s “shopping street,” so it’s a great place to buy clothes, gifts, and all kinds of souvenirs to bring back home. There are plenty of restaurants located on Broughton Street, and one of my favorite hotels in Savannah is located there, too.
Here are the pros and cons…
Pros: If you like being in the center of all the action, City Market is the zone is for you. If you love shopping, Broughton Street makes a great home base!
Cons: If you stay in a home rental located above a bar or business, read the reviews carefully to ensure it’s not too loud at night. Parking is an absolute nightmare in this area. (Try the Whitaker or Bryan Street Parking Garages if you can’t find any metered spaces.)
Homelessness: It’s very common to find members of the homeless community sleeping in City Market, as well as adjacent Franklin and Ellis Squares. Franklin Square is a gathering spot during the daytime, too. Expect to be asked for a handout when you’re staying in the City Market area.
Safety: I always like to caution first-time visitors that City Market is family-friendly during the day, but the vibe changes as the night wears on. When the bars close down for the night, sometimes fighting ensues — as well as the occasional shooting. [Shootings became more frequent in City Market in 2022.] The Broughton Street area is generally safer than City Market.
Related Reading: City Market Savannah: What to See and What to Skip!
VERDICT: Stay in this zone if you want to be in a touristy area loaded with a very high concentration of restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
Popular near City Market
- Andaz Savannah (Hyatt Property) | Far enough removed from the noise
Popular on Broughton Street
- The Marshall House | One of my favorite hotels in all of Savannah!
Historic District South Zone
My love for this portion of the Historic District is no secret! Some of my favorite streets are located in this zone, and I feel like it’s one of the best areas to stay if you want to experience what it was truly like to live in Savannah “back in the day”.
When most people picture the Historic District with all its beautiful squares and mansions, this is the section of the city that comes to mind.
This area has fewer businesses and more homes, and the streets are shaded with beautiful Southern live oaks. It has a much more residential feel than the areas mentioned above.
There are only a handful of hotels, but there are plenty of beautiful B&Bs.
Pros: The historic homes are beautiful. The area is fairly quiet and residential. It’s one of the safest sections of the Historic District, if not the entire downtown area. There are plenty of landmarks nearby to explore.
Cons: You’ll have a 20-minute walk to River Street from this area. The restaurants and shops aren’t as plentiful in this section as they are further north. You won’t find many parking garages this far south, so street parking is the main option.
Homelessness: There are very few members of the homeless community in this area. You might occasionally find someone sleeping on church doorstep, but that’s about it.
Related Reading: Is Jones Street Really the Prettiest Street in Savannah?
VERDICT: Stay in this zone if you want to be in a residential zone, further removed from the crowds. It’s a safe area, where you can experience the city more like a local. It’s not a party zone.
Popular in the Historic District SOUTH Zone
- Eliza Thompson House | My top recommendation in this area (located on Jones Street)!
- Perry Lane Hotel | Luxury option with a rooftop pool and bar
- Hamilton-Turner Inn | Excellent splurge option
- The DeSoto | Convenient central location across from the Cathedral
- Thomas Weis House | Newly restored historic home close to Kroger
NOTE: The best way to maintain the beautiful residential feel of this zone is by staying in a charming B&B or small inn. I do NOT recommend Airbnb or VRBO, unless the property is truly owner-occupied.
2. Savannah Victorian District
The Victorian District begins about halfway through Forsyth Park. It’s a beautiful area, although some still consider it transitional.
The Victorian District’s boundaries are as follows:
- North: Gwinnett Street
- East: E Broad Street
- South: Anderson Street or 31st Street (depending on the source)
- West: Montgomery Street
There are a decent number of full-time homeowners in this area, as well as plenty of SCAD students.
Many of the homes have been converted to home rentals, so VRBOs and Airbnbs are plentiful.
Pros: If you’re a fan of Victorian architecture, you’ll enjoy strolling around this area. It’s close to a few grocery stores and to Forsyth Park. Street parking is free! Accommodation rates are slightly lower than along River Street.
Cons: You’ll have a 15 to 20-minute walk to River Street from this area. That’s fine during the day, but you should probably take an Uber at night — especially if you’re traveling solo. There aren’t as many historic landmarks in this area as you’ll find further north.
Homelessness: There is homelessness in this area. While it’s somewhat rare to find people asking for handouts (most prefer to do that in the touristy section closer to the river), you might spot people sleeping on church steps or outside businesses that have closed for the night.
Safety: In general, this is a fairly safe area during the daytime. It can be a little sketchier late at night. Some streets are better than others; it really just depends on the block.
VERDICT: I adore this area and have written an entire post about the Victorian District! The homes are stunning, and it’s easy to meet people in the park. Stay in this area if you want to feel more like a local than a tourist.
- Catherine Ward House Inn | My top pick in the area!
- Printmaker’s Inn | Another classic Victorian home
Forsyth Park
I’ve only added Forsyth Park as its own section on this post because many visitors wouldn’t know which zone to look in to find it otherwise.
The northern half of Forsyth Park is located in the Historic District and the southern half is located in the Victorian District, so read up on both sections to get a feel for the vibe around the park. Gwinnett Street is the dividing line.
Pros: Forsyth Park is beautiful! It’s a great place to go for a stroll and meet people. It’s also a fantastic area to stay in if you’re traveling with a large dog that needs plenty of room to run. Lots of locals hang out in this area. Street parking is free everywhere south of Gaston Street.
Cons: Accommodations overlooking the park are almost as pricy as accommodations overlooking the river. Traffic is fairly consistent on the two north/south streets bordering the park (Whitaker & Drayton Streets). You’ll have an approximate 20-minute walk to River Street from the park.
Homelessness: You will find members of the homeless community throughout the park, both during the day and at night. They tend to keep to themselves and don’t interact much with others. As the sun begins to set, many gather and sleep near the tennis courts and the area directly south of the Fragrant Garden building.
Safety: I personally don’t cut through the park late at night, so I don’t recommend that visitors do so, either. Otherwise, the area is fairly safe. Use common sense and do all the things you would normally do in an urban environment, like keeping your car locked and valuables out of sight.
VERDICT: Stay near the park if you hope to assimilate with locals or are traveling with a dog that needs space to run around. The park is beautiful, and the homes surrounding it are, too.
Accommodations Near Forsyth Park
- The Mansion on Forsyth | Overlooks the park and has a pool!
- Forsyth Park Inn | Beautiful porch overlooking the park
- The Gastonian | This historic B&B is a classic choice very close to the park
- Azalea Inn | Cheerful Victorian B&B with a pool very close to the park
- Justine Inn | Refined French Renaissance-style townhome very close to the park
- Catherine Ward House Inn | Victorian B&B only one block from the park
3. The Starland District
I have quite a fondness for the Starland District, since it’s the area of Savannah I call home. Southern Living seems to think it’s pretty great, too! They named Starland’s Thomas Square as the #1 Neighborhood in the South in 2020.
This area is quirky and fun. I like it think it’s one of the most diverse areas in a city that’s already known for its diversity. It’s home to SCAD students, professionals, and many long-time residents who have lived in Savannah for 30+ years.
Some consider it a transitional area or claim it’s undergoing gentrification. I won’t argue that point — except to say I think it has pretty much reached the tail end of gentrification.
The borders of Starland aren’t clearly defined. Here’s a rough guideline:
- North: 31st Street
- East: Maybe Price St? Perhaps E Broad?
- South: Victory Drive
- West: Maybe Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd?
Pros: There are fantastic restaurants and eclectic shops in the area. It’s a hub for the arts community, so you’ll find unique murals, art studios, and galleries. There’s good nightlife, too! Street parking is currently free throughout Starland. The area is residential, with only small pockets of overly-touristy sections along the Bull Street corridor.
Cons: There aren’t any hotels in this section of Savannah, but you’ll find somewhat reasonably-priced room rentals inside historic homes. It takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes to walk to River Street.
Homelessness: It’s common to find members of the homeless community in Starland, especially near the mission on Bull Street and around the Bull Street Library.
Safety: Safety varies on a block-by-block basis, much like the Victorian District. It’s not uncommon to have a beautiful half-million-dollar home next to an abandoned building. The area around Wells Park is an area to avoid at night.
VERDICT: Stay in this area if you want to feel like a local in a fun and artsy zone. It’s very LGBTQ-friendly (all of Savannah is), and the accommodations are sometimes more affordable than the Historic District.
Starland District Rentals
- Isetta Inn | An artsy boutique-style hostel/inn
- The Galloway House Inn | Rooms inside a historic home
- Starland District/Thomas Square VRBOs
4. Plant Riverside District
The Plant Riverside District is a somewhat newly developed section along the far west end of River Street. It’s generally considered its own “district” and separate from the rest of River Street.
The majority of the businesses in the area opened in 2020 and 2021.
Like River Street, Plant Riverside sits below the bluff and has excellent river views.
The district’s anchor business is the JW Marriott Plant Riverside, which is housed inside a former power plant from 1912.
The hotel’s lobby contains rare gemstones, fossils, and a plethora of unique art. It looks a lot like a museum.
If you like Vegas, the Plant Riverside District is about as close to that atmosphere as you’ll get in Savannah. It’s a very touristy area that stays consistently busy.
The folks at Plant Riverside host numerous events to draw people to the area.
Pros: It has great views of the river! There are new restaurants, shops, and bars all within a short walking distance of the hotel. It even has a Starbucks.
Cons: It’s expensive, and there’s not a lot of parking along the riverfront. The hotel added a parking garage in 2021, which you can learn more here: Everything You Need to Know About Parking in Savannah.
Homelessness: Security guards patrol the area, so you won’t typically find members of the homeless community sleeping in this section of the riverfront. In fact, nearly every time I’ve walked around the Plant Riverside District, I’ve seen security guards.
Safety: Plant Riverside is probably one of the safer areas along the riverfront, if I had to venture a guess. (It sits on private property, so it’s difficult to know the statistics for sure.) Be careful late at night if you leave the district, since the surrounding areas don’t have as much security.
VERDICT: Stay here if you’re not on a tight budget and want to be in an area marketed as the “riverfront entertainment destination”. (Think Savannah with a hefty dose of Vegas thrown in, as you can see by the photo of the JW Marriott’s lobby, above.)
Hotels in the Plant Riverside District
- JW Marriott Plant Riverside | Vegas-like property along the riverfront
- The Alida Savannah | Exceptional hospitality and beautiful property
- The Bluff Hotel | Less expensive area option
5. Midtown & Outskirts of Savannah
I don’t know how to describe Midtown other than to call it a typical suburban zone. It consists of a few beautiful neighborhoods, such as Ardsley Park, but it’s also full of busy streets and retail centers anchored by chain stores like Walgreens, Auto Zone, and UPS.
The neighborhoods are primarily filled with residents who live in Savannah full-time, so there aren’t as many VRBOs and Airbnbs as there are in the Historic District. In many areas south of Victory Drive it’s actually against city ordinance to run a short-term vacation rental.
Most visitors who stay in Midtown end up staying at one of the many hotels located on Abercorn Street. There are plenty of options! None are historic; they’re just modern-day, mid-range hotels.
Pros: Hotels in Midtown are cheaper than in the Historic District. Grocery stores, drug stores, and gas stations are plentiful. Parking is free. There’s no shortage of chain restaurants and fast food joints.
Cons: You’ll want a car to get around if you opt to stay any further south than Victory Drive. If you don’t have a car, be sure to factor in the cost of Uber or Lyft to get to the Historic District.
Homelessness: You might see individuals panhandling along the side of the road, especially near Abercorn and DeRenne.
Safety: I’d expect tourists to stick primarily to the Abercorn corridor while driving back and forth to the Historic District, so the biggest safety concerns would be traffic-related.
VERDICT: The main reason to stay in this area is to save money on accommodations. If you’re planning a visit to see the Historic District, then it’s better to stay in the Historic District…or at least within walking distance of it.
Midtown Savannah Hotels
6. Tybee Island
The vibe on Tybee Island is very laid back; it’s a fun beach town and makes a nice spot for family vacations. You’ll find plenty of casual restaurants and lots of souvenir shops on the island. You’ll also find a plethora of home rentals and hotels.
Tybee is an approximate 20-minute drive from the Historic District. On crowded weekends or when an event is taking place, it can sometimes take an hour and a half to get back and forth between the two.
The Back River Beach is probably the nicest area. It’s very residential and you’ll find homes there in the multi-million dollar range. Expect to pay a hefty price for vacation rentals in that particular area!
Pros: You’ll be at the beach!
Cons: Although it’s called, “Savannah’s beach,” it’s not in Savannah, nor does it feel like Savannah. Also, dogs are NOT allowed on the beach at Tybee!! You’ll pay a hefty fine for having a dog on the beach, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with a pet.
Homelessness: I don’t know if there are homeless communities on Tybee or if there’s a lot of panhandling, since I don’t spend much time there.
Safety: Overall, Tybee is a safe little beach community. It’s fine to walk around most areas even after dark.
VERDICT: If you’re primarily a beach person and want to spend most of your vacation with your toes in the sand, then stay on Tybee.
Related Reading: When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Savannah?
Where to Stay in Savannah, Georgia
I hope this post helped to summarize the various sections of Savannah.
Just remember, as a general rule of thumb, the closer you are to the river, the more touristy the area and the more expensive the accommodations.
If you need more help planning your trip, my Savannah vacation guide will get you started with a brief overview of the city.
Finally, if you’re looking for an in-depth resource, my Savannah First-Timer’s Guide contains my top tips from this website combined into one handy downloadable ebook.
Do you have additional questions about where to stay in Savannah Georgia? As always, feel free to ask in the comments below.
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64 Comments on Where to Stay in Savannah Georgia According to a Local
Savannah has been on my bucket list for so long! I think the Historic District would be right up my alley. Beautiful photos, thanks for sharing!
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I LOVE Savannah. It’s honestly one of my favorite places in the south. I don’t think I’ve ever explored the Starland District or the Plant Riverside District though! I’ll definitely make a mental note to check out those areas the next time I visit!
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I haven’t visited Savannah but it looks like there is a lot to do there and some beautiful areas. I was thinking I would love to stay in the Historic part until I saw the pictures of Tybee Island!! I think some time in Tybee Island would be amazing.
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Hahah every section – I was like this is where I would stay… no this is where I would stay! They all seem like great options for places to stay in Savannah. Though, I think I would end up staying in the historic district. I was keen on the Plant Riverside district too, but I’m not so sure I would be a fan of the showy Vegas style. Thanks for breaking down all the pros and cons and keeping it real! Saving for when I can visit Savannah.
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I have ALWAYS wanted to visit Savannah. This post inspires me to move it to the top of my list! Beautiful pictures and great guide!
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These will be so helpful when planning my trip!! Thanks so much for sharing all the deets haha!
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This is so helpful!! I’m crossing my fingers for a trip to Savannah later this year. Thanks so much for the great post.
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We will break up our trip to western Carolina and stop in Savannah for the night. We have two small long haired dauchsions. Wife complains I always find a place on the cheap. Need recommendations for a nice, pet friendly motel fairly close to I-95. Help!
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I know the Savannah area better than the outskirts, but there are some decent options near the SAV/HHI airport. If you want to stay close to Savannah so you can see the city, the Thunderbird Inn on Oglethorpe is very pet-friendly and has a cute retro vibe. Their rates are usually reasonable. Safe travels!
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Love your blog… so insightful and thank you. My husband and I are planning a trip in 2 weeks based on your blog only LOL… We want to be safe, in a historic part of the city yet fun and romantic. Not sure if there is some are that combines these lol… Can you help? Of course reasonably priced accommodation is the aim but safety and cleanliness is a priority :)… Any recommendations will be very very appreciated 🙂
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Thank you for the compliment! I’m glad the site is helpful. I’d suggest staying in the southern zone of the Historic District. The Eliza Thompson House would be a fantastic option!
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Thanks for all the insight information. My husband and I was looking at the Eliza Thompson House vs Bellwether House . Is there one that you would recommend out of the two?
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They’re both beautiful homes and both are in nice locations. Bellweather is a little more upscale and it feels more modern, since it has been recently renovated. Personally, I would pick Eliza Thompson, because I love the location (on Jones Street) and their customer service is fantastic.
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Thank you so much…This has been so helpful. We’re planning a trip in September and will try to book the Eliza Thompson House.
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Happy to help!
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This was SO helpful, thank you. My boyfriend and I are planning a trip late July and trying to figure out where to stay. He is a US history teacher so I’m leaning towards one of the historic inns. But the Marshall house looks like a great place. Any suggestions for must go to restaurants?
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The Marshall House is one of the most historic properties in Savannah. It’s a fantastic place to stay! The walls are lined with historic photos and they have collectibles in glass bookcases that they’ve found on site (historic bottles and things of that nature). The staff there is fantastic, as well. You can’t go wrong with The Marshall House! I have a list of all my current favorite restaurants here: https://savannahfirsttimer.com/restaurants-in-savannah/
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I am so happy I found this, this has been so helpful! I am traveling to Savannah for the first time, I will be solo (female) my plan is to be able to walk the city, see beautiful homes, shop, go to restaurants…. maybe a bar for a co*cktail. After reading your article I am leaning towards staying at the Andaz Hotel. Do you think that would be a good spot or would you suggest the River District or a different hotel.
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Hi There!
I notice The Ballastone Inn is not on your recommended list of lodging to stay in the northern part of the Historical District in Savannah. Is there a reason why?I was considering it but have never been to Savannah before and will be staying alone over Christmas want to stay somewhere that’s highly recommended.
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I’ve always liked Ballastone in the past — especially during the holiday season, since they tend to go all out — but the owner sold to someone new last year. Before adding it back onto the list, I’m waiting to see how readers like it under the new ownership. It’s a beautiful property and is in a very convenient location.
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Where’s the best area for a mom and daughter? Safety is most important and would love to just walk versus having to drive everywhere. Dinner and some shopping for one evening and maybe a tour the next morning. Thanks for your help!
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I would suggest one of the hotels or B&Bs in the southern zone of the Historic District. The section from the north end of Forsyth Park (Gaston Street) to Oglethorpe Avenue is very safe and you can easily walk to attractions or take the free DOT shuttles. A few places to stay in that area include The Eliza Thompson House, Hamilton Turner Inn, The DeSoto, and Perry Lane Hotel. There are fantastic home decor shops in the Design District on Whitaker Street and the city’s main shopping street is Broughton Street.
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Thank you for all this information. It’s been very helpful. I’m planning a short trip to Gatlinburg, TN for my 30th wedding anniversary. We can’t be gone too long due to elderly parents and dogs, but we want to stop in Savannah for a couple of nights on the way up and a night on the way back. I thought I found a lovely historic hotel, but found that it is considered haunted. That makes it a no-go for me. LOL Can you suggest an historic hotel or something in the historic district…I’m loving your description of the southern region…that is NOT considered haunted?
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I would stay in the Eliza Thompson House or the Thomas Weis House. The Eliza Thompson House is one of the most popular places to stay with members of my Facebook group, and not a single person who stayed there has reported any type of haunted experience. It’s a beautiful hotel that’s located on a beautiful street in the Southern section of the Historic District.
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I’m traveling in March solo female and am torn between Hamilton Turner Inn and a small apartment on west Jones street. I am shy and not one to talk a lot also like my coffee first thing in morning alone thought an apt might give me a break from restaurant food too. I’m staying a week and am 60. But the Hamilton Turner Inn looks so beautiful. Will I be out of place there solo!
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The Hamilton Turner Inn is one of the prettiest B&Bs in Savannah! I don’t think you’d feel uncomfortable as a solo traveler. They have an indoor dining area, but they also have a quiet little courtyard out back where you could sit to enjoy coffee. It’s a toss up! I love Hamilton Turner, but I totally get the appeal of wanting more privacy. Could you mix it up and stay at Hamilton Turner for a night and then switch to the apartment on Jones for the rest of your trip?
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Great idea thank you so much!
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Thanks for all the great information. We are booked in the Eliza Thomspon House and are wondering about parking. I realize most of the parking is metered street parking. On their website they mention 24 or 48 hour parking passes for metered parking. Do you know how those work and is it difficult the find a parking spot near the hotel?
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The Eliza Thompson House is so beautiful and in such a fantastic location! You can call the Bryan Street Parking Garage to purchase the two-day visitor pass: Mobility & Parking Services at (912) 651-6470. It shouldn’t be too difficult to find parking near the Eliza Thompson House. If Jones Street is crowded, head two or three blocks west to Tattnall Street. You can usually find spots there. No matter where you park, be sure you make note of the street-sweeper days and move your car when the sign tells you to do so, otherwise you’ll get an expensive ($40 or so) ticket. Here’s a post about parking that might help: https://savannahfirsttimer.com/parking-in-savannah/ If you end up parking on Jones Street near the hotel, the managers there are nice enough to post signs in the entrance reminding you of street sweeper nights. (It’s one of those added touches of good customer service that makes me love them!)
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Thank you for all the fantastic information you provide! We will be arriving in Savannah at about 4 or 5pm on a Sunday at the end of April and want to walk around River Street, City Market and Broughton Street. The next day we plan to do an Old Savannah Trolley tour before we leave. I love the idea of the Eliza Thompson house but, because we have a car, it seemed Marshall House or East Bay Inn might be more convenient because they offer parking and we can just hop on the trolley the next morning. Safety is a consideration for us and the car. Of those three, which hotel would you suggest? Thank you!
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The Eliza Thompson House is fantastic and would be the safest option, but the other two are also in good areas. Since you want to spend your time closer to River Street, Broughton Street, and City Market, one of the other two might work better for you. I would probably pick The Marshall House as your best bet. This post has some reader reviews (from members of my FB group) that tells more of the pros and cons of The Marshall House and East Bay Inn: https://savannahfirsttimer.com/savannah-historic-district-hotels/ The Eliza Thompson House isn’t included in that post because I was focusing on hotels. I’m creating a separate post that focuses on B&Bs, and it will include the Eliza Thompson House.) Hope that helps!
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Hi Erin – Great info!! I too worry about leaving the car in the street, but you make the Eliza and its area sound Great! I was looking at the River Street Inn and the Marriot Savannah, but what do I Know? Never been to Savannah so I would like the wife and I to have a simply good time as we will be passing through next weekend. The price seems very good too! Do I really need to worry if I park on the street with out of town plates? Thanks!!
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It’s perfectly safe to park on the street with out-of-town plates. If I had to guess, I’d say it’s probably more common to see out-of-town plates than it is to see Chatham County plates, just because there are so many tourists and SCAD students in the area. All three of the hotels you mentioned are nice. Eliza Thompson is great if you want to be in a quieter and more romantic area, but still want to be close to the pickup point for the free DOT shuttles.
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Woops! Eliza is not available anymore, everybody must love your advice, haha – Do you have another 2 choices? We are just looking to have a romantic safe stay!
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Ha. That was fast! You are planning your trip during one of the busiest weeks of the year, though. There are quite a few nice B&Bs in the area. The Gastonian, Azalea Inn, Catherine Ward House, and Justine Inn are a few others you can try.
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Yes, get up and go! That’s me
I will look into them, Thank You!! Thank you for the response.
I did not even realize it was busy time – Thought it was still weeks away
Have a Great Day!
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Hi Erin, thanks for all the useful information. My wife and I are planning a visit to Savannah for the first time and we’re not quite sure what hotel to stay at. We like the idea of being within walking distance to most restaurants and attractions so we’re considering staying at the Holiday Inn express in the historic district. Can you tell me you thoughts about this hotel?
Thanks so much,
Jim and Carole RobersonReply
It’s a good option! The location is convenient, and they have a rooftop pool and a workout room. Members of my Savannah FB group like their free breakfast.
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Thinking of The Presidents’ Quarters Inn
how safe is the area? need to be close to restaurants and action 🙂
only of 1 nightalso they say free parking as well
What is your recommendation?Reply
Hi TJ. The President’s Quarters Inn is fantastic. Nice location, safe, and quiet (other than being close to the pick-up point for the ghost tour trolleys and hearses). Good choice!
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Hi Erin
We are checking also the The Thunderbird inn on West Oglethorpe AvenueIs the location and hotel OK? offering nice rooms and rates..
Thank you!
TJReply
The Thunderbird Inn on Oglethorpe is a great spot. It’s inexpensive, in a very convenient location, pet friendly, and they offer lots of fun little perks to guests (popcorn, moon pies, RC cola…lots of throwback items reminiscent of the motels of yesteryear).
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I use to lived in Statesboro 30 years ago and we go there @ Savannah but we never stay the night . And now I’m living in Arizona and I’m planning to visit Savannah and I’m debating where to stay . Desoto, Alida , JW Marriot or Perry Lane . I love rooftop bars . I want to be on the riverside where I can see it on the balcony and able to walk to restaurants, bars the night life and shopping.
So what do u suggest ?
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Perry Lane would be my top choice, but since you specifically mentioned wanting to be on the river, the JW Marriott Plant Riverside might be a good choice for you. It is located on the riverfront and has two nice rooftop bars. You didn’t mention this hotel in your list, but if I were staying along the riverfront, my top choice would be the Thompson Savannah. They also have a nice rooftop bar. It is easy to walk to restaurants, bars, and shopping from any of the hotels listed above.
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Erin:
Enjoyed taking notes throughout your informative Guide. My wife and I stay most frequently in Charleston (although I have been here to Savannah a couple of times myself) and are looking forward to visiting/staying this month. Generally we hire a private tour guide to chauffer us around a new city. Do you have any personal recommendation as to a person who you might suggest who is especially familiar with the ins & outs of the city and a seasoned personal tour guide ? Your input will be MOST appreciated !
Sincerely,
Donald WillisReply
Hi Donald! Try “Bonnie Blue Tours.” She’s a native Savannahian who offers private tours in the Historic District.
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Hi, Just found your blog. Great information. Thank you for all the thought and time you put into it. Making out first trip there in August. Thinking of the Kehoe House? Didn’t see it listed. Is it recommended?
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The Kehoe House is fantastic! An excellent choice 🙂
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We have a trip to Savannah planned and have looked into staying at a VRBO (Jefferson House), address is unavailable to us at this time. The description indicates it is by historic district south and Victorian district North. 2 1/2 blocks west of Forsyth Park. Does this general area sound like it would be in a favored area to stay ? My parents are in their 80’s and my adult siblings and myself with be with them. We do plan to make use of the DOT transport system and have been told we would need to get off at the visitor center on MLK around Liberty and walk from there. What are your thoughts of this area?
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It is probably in a good area if it’s within the first couple blocks around Forsyth Park. If you have the link, feel free to email it to me and I can provide more info regarding safety. I’ll probably be able to recognize it from the photos — although sometimes it’s hard to tell if they don’t show any extinguishing exterior shots. My email is erin(at)savannahfirsttimer.com.
Generally that area is nice for walking and yes, it is close to the free DOT shuttles. You don’t have to get off at the Visitor Center, though. You can exit at any of the stops and walk around to explore.
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Actually, I was able to find it myself on VRBO, so you don’t even need to email me (ignore the comment I just posted). Yes, that house is in a nice area. It’s located on Jefferson Street — but along one of the nicer sections of Jefferson Street. You’ll be fine staying there!
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Thank you so much for your help, it is always a concern when staying in an area I am not familiar with.
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Hello! I am trying to plan a trip for with my in-laws. My father in law is not doing well, he can’t walk far but wants to take this trip, he has been asking for the past 6 months and isn’t getting better so we have to go soon 🙁
We are trying to get him to let us get a scooter or chair so will need to be able to accommodate that getting in and out of where we stay. Safety is also extremely important as he worries about these things already.
Can you recommend some sights, gardens or must see places? My MIL loves, loves plants so would like to take her somewhere that has beautiful flower gardens. My FIL used to be in the navy and loves the water. Any recommendations are greatly appreciated!!! Ahhh, great restaurants suggestions would also be wonderful! Thank you so much!Reply
A good portion of the Historic District has beautiful gardens. It’s nice to ride around and get glimpses into the courtyards. I would suggest taking a pedicab, since the pedicab driver will be able to customize the route and take you to the prettiest areas. Bonaventure Cemetery and Laurel Grove Cemetery are both beautifully landscaped, and you can drive your car through both of those, then get out if you want to catch a closer view of something. You can also do golf cart tours of Bonaventure if you prefer a guided tour (recommended so you’ll learn more). Finally, the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens have pretty gardens, as well. If you need to rent a scooter to get around downtown, contact Mobility Bob and he can drop one off at your hotel. Oh and for restaurants, this is where I keep my current list of favorites: https://savannahfirsttimer.com/restaurants-in-savannah/
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Just found you! And I’m thrilled! We are planning a weekend trip before we head to St. Simon’s. Wondering how you feel about any of vacation rental agencies? Like Southern Belle or Lucky Savannah or are there others you recommend?
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Awww, thanks. I’m thrilled you’re here! 🙂 I don’t like the vacation rental agencies, so I don’t ever recommend them. They’re buying up too many properties in downtown Savannah and converting them to short-term rentals. Those actions are pricing locals out of the market, so that’s why I’m very much against them. It’s a huge issue in Savannah. I don’t mind short-term rentals where the owner lives on site and rents out a portion of the home to supplement their income (like when someone rents out the second half of a townhome or their carriage house). I forget which rental agency it is, but one of them always advertises that you get pool access with their rentals, but the pool is over on Tybee Island and it’s a pool that lots of people have access to, so that’s rather misleading, in my opinion.
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Hi,
where would you stay with a family? We want things in close proximity, a pool, and the charm of savannah. Maybe something historian to see?Thank you!
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The Holiday Inn Express has a pool and is in a convenient location, and it’s really popular in my Savannah FB group amongst families.
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Stopping in Savannah 2days. Will have a car and small dog. Want a place that offers parking and dog friendly in the historic district that won’t brake the bank safe to walk around in by myself with my dog. Thank you. I love your site
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The Thunderbird Inn sounds like it would be perfect for you. It’s within easy walking distance to restaurants and attractions, it’s very pet friendly, and it’s inexpensive compared to most properties in the Historic District. It has a cute retro theme, too! Check it out and see if it’ll work [affiliate link]: https://www.booking.com/hotel/us/the-thunderbird-inn.en.html?aid=2042809&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2
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Hi! Savannah has been a bucket list trip of mine for awhile now and my husband finally has some vacation time sooo.. we decided to go for it! But then I saw your advice about staying far away in the summer lol. We can only visit the first week of July. We have four kids ages 8-15. Will we seriously just be miserable? We live in KY and also experience hot and humid summers with temps often in the upper 90s, but I don’t know if it compares to your summers or not. Thoughts or advice?
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I personally think it’s pretty darn uncomfortable during July, but it’s the humidity more than anything else that makes it so miserable. If you’re accustomed to high humidity then you might be ok. Are you in my FB group? If not, you could join and ask there to get opinions from others who have visited with kids in July. Here’s the group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/savftg (Just say I sent you when it asks the two membership questions, that way your membership will get approved.)
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Hello Erin, what a wonderful blog you have. Most informative. My wife and I are planning to spend a month in the Savannah area this winter (either all of February or some of February and March). We are looking for a monthly rental. We will have our car. We mainly are looking to escape the snow and explore a new area. We are a little picky about accommodations but are willing to pay for cleanliness and updated decor. We require at least a king bed and if possible two bedrooms. Do you have some recommendations for a particular area or hosts? Thank you.
Chuck WorsfoldReply
Hi Chuck! I’m glad the site has been helpful. I don’t have any specific rentals to recommend. As for areas, I’d pick something in the southern portion of the Historic District since everything is so walkable from there. Try to find a place that offers on-site parking, though, so you won’t have to deal with moving your car on street-sweeper days. If you prefer free street parking, look for a place in the Victorian District or Starland District — but it’s better to stick to the central blocks in those areas (look on the zero blocks, which begin at Bull Street, or the 100, 200, or 300 blocks). I personally think the ideal setup would be a carriage house where the owner lives on site and you could contact them easily if there were any issues. Hope that helps!
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