10 Best Hotels in Savannah Georgia
Discover the finest accommodations in Savannah's historic district and vibrant neighborhoods
The 10 Best Hotels in Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, Georgia stands as one of America’s most enchanting destinations, where Spanish moss drapes from ancient oak trees and cobblestoned streets wind through centuries-old neighborhoods. When planning a visit to this historic Southern city, selecting the right accommodation can significantly enhance your experience. Whether you’re seeking luxury amenities, unique artistic ambiance, or charming boutique properties, Savannah offers an exceptional array of hotels catering to every traveler’s preferences and budget.
Understanding Savannah’s Hotel Landscape
The hospitality market in Savannah has evolved considerably, with boutique and luxury hotels establishing prominent positions alongside well-known chain brands. The city’s well-preserved historic district continues to draw leisure travelers seeking authentic connections to the destination’s rich past. Modern visitors increasingly prefer experiential accommodations that offer unique design, distinctive food and beverage experiences, and genuine cultural immersion rather than standardized chain hotel experiences.
Perry Lane Hotel: Best for Art Enthusiasts
Located at 256 East Perry Street, the Perry Lane Hotel represents a masterclass in artistic hospitality. This exceptional property showcases over 150 pieces of art throughout its spaces, created through a partnership with the Savannah College of Art and Design. Every corridor, room, and common area celebrates creativity, making it an ideal choice for art lovers and culturally-minded travelers.
The hotel features an impressive restaurant where chefs craft inventive dishes highlighting locally-sourced ingredients from nearby farms and markets. Guests enjoy complimentary bikes to explore Savannah’s historic district at their own pace, discovering local attractions like Forsyth Park, River Street, and City Market. The outdoor rooftop swimming pool offers stunning views of downtown Savannah, providing the perfect retreat after a day of exploration. As part of the Marriott Luxury Collection, guests can earn or redeem Marriott loyalty points during their stay. With a rating of 9.3 out of 10 stars, this hotel consistently receives praise for its beautiful decor, comfortable accommodations, and exceptional service.
JW Marriott Plant Riverside District: Perfect for Families
The JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District, situated at 400 West River Street, offers an exciting family-oriented experience in the heart of Savannah’s vibrant and ever-growing Plant Riverside District. Located directly on the banks of the Savannah River, this property provides guests with museum-quality attractions including art galleries, entertainment venues, and an impressive array of dining establishments.
This unique property distinguishes itself through its striking artistic installations, including a colorful glass display featuring an intricate light show across the lobby walls and ceiling. Large geodes and dinosaur sculptures scattered throughout the property create a magical atmosphere that appeals to both children and adults. Unusual artistic sculptures line the walkways and patios, adding whimsy and visual interest to the entire property.
With 12 different dining options ranging from sushi bars and American bistros to breweries and casual restaurants, guests can enjoy intimate evenings or relaxed nights with friends and family. The location provides walking distance access to the American Prohibition Museum and other popular attractions. Earning an 8.8 out of 10 stars rating, guests frequently praise the exceptional building architecture, great location, and the fact that even teenagers appreciate the unique experience offered by this property.
Thomas Weihs Haus: An Ideal Choice for Food Lovers
For travelers who prioritize culinary experiences, Thomas Weihs Haus presents an excellent option within Savannah’s Victorian District. This recently renovated historic building maintains its Victorian charm while offering modern comforts and amenities. The property pays special attention to diverse dietary preferences, with vegetarian breakfast options available for guests with specific nutritional requirements.
The historic architecture of this Victorian home provides an authentic window into Savannah’s elegant past. Guests appreciate the opportunity to experience the city from within one of its preserved historic structures, creating a deeper connection to Savannah’s cultural heritage. The commitment to quality breakfast offerings sets this property apart from standard hotel experiences.
Catherine Ward House: Privacy and Garden Elegance
Located in the distinguished Victorian District, Catherine Ward House specializes in providing private outdoor spaces for guests seeking tranquility and personal seclusion. Each accommodation features private balconies and access to a beautiful private outdoor garden, creating personal oases within the bustling historic district.
The property provides concierge services to assist guests with restaurant reservations, attraction recommendations, and local insights. Complimentary luggage storage allows guests to explore the city before check-in or after checkout, maximizing their time in Savannah. These thoughtful amenities demonstrate a commitment to guest convenience and satisfaction.
Choosing Your Neighborhood
River Street and Downtown Experience
For travelers seeking the ultimate downtown experience, River Street offers exciting events, abundant shops, and numerous restaurants. The Savannah Waterfront Association organizes frequent festivals throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something to do. Visitors can indulge at the Savannah Candy Kitchen, enjoy cocktails at Wet Willies in to-go cups, and savor fresh seafood at establishments like Fiddler’s Crab House. Walking along the Savannah River provides views of monuments and the Talmadge Bridge, with potential sightings of cargo ships heading out to sea.
Midtown Accommodations for Drivers
Visitors with rental cars may prefer Midtown, located just south of the Historic District. Midtown features additional restaurants, shopping centers including Oglethorpe Mall, and convenient access to downtown—typically just a 10-minute drive away. This area provides practical options for those prioritizing shopping and dining convenience.
College Visit Accommodations
Visitors attending Savannah College of Art and Design should consider staying near the Visitor Center, Civic Center, or along Bull Street for proximity to campus and attractions. Those visiting Georgia Southern University’s Armstrong campus on the southside will find accommodations roughly 20 minutes from the Historic District, near shopping centers and popular restaurants.
The Rise of Boutique Hotels
Savannah’s recent hotel development has emphasized boutique and luxury properties that celebrate the city’s authentic character. The Douglas, a recently opened boutique hotel, exemplifies this trend by preserving a building that has been part of Savannah for over a century while reimagining it for contemporary travelers. The property features a guest-only bar with signature cocktails and direct access to the historic district, ensuring guests feel immersed in Savannah’s story rather than merely visiting it.
Municipal Grand represents another innovative addition to Savannah’s hospitality scene, operating as the first property under the Midnight Auteur brand, a cocktail-forward lifestyle hotel concept. This property centers around a distinctive lobby bar and restaurant that creates a lively atmosphere perfectly suited to Savannah’s culture-focused visitor base. These newer properties demonstrate how luxury accommodations can blend historical preservation with modern experiential design.
What Modern Travelers Seek
Contemporary visitors increasingly demand more than basic overnight accommodations. High-end travelers seek stays that feel authentic and connected to the destination’s history, cultural depth, and local personality. They desire experiences where the hotel stay itself becomes part of the vacation narrative—whether through unique architectural features, distinctive dining offerings, or genuine connections to local culture and history.
This shift has elevated expectations for boutique hotels and independent properties, which offer distinctive character impossible to replicate in standardized chain hotels. Guests appreciate accommodations that allow them to feel like participants in the city’s ongoing story rather than temporary outsiders observing from afar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best area to stay in Savannah for first-time visitors?
A: The Historic District and River Street offer the most immersive experience for first-time visitors, providing walkable access to major attractions, restaurants, and the Savannah River.
Q: Are there pet-friendly hotels in Savannah?
A: Many Savannah hotels offer pet-friendly accommodations, though policies vary. It’s advisable to contact specific properties directly to confirm pet policies, fees, and available amenities for traveling with pets.
Q: What’s the difference between staying on River Street versus elsewhere in the Historic District?
A: River Street offers direct riverfront access, more nightlife options, and festival activities, while other Historic District locations provide quieter surroundings with charming squares and local restaurants.
Q: When is the best time to visit Savannah?
A: Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is mild but may feature occasional rainy periods.
Q: Do I need a car to visit Savannah?
A: The Historic District is easily walkable, so a car isn’t necessary for exploring downtown attractions. However, a vehicle provides convenience for visiting Midtown restaurants, shopping, and attractions outside the historic core.
Q: What amenities should I prioritize when choosing a Savannah hotel?
A: Prioritize location relative to your interests, on-site dining options, complimentary services (bikes, breakfast, parking), unique character, and reviews from previous guests with similar travel preferences.
Planning Your Savannah Hotel Stay
Selecting the ideal Savannah hotel requires considering your travel priorities, budget, desired neighborhood, and preferred amenities. Whether you seek artistic immersion at Perry Lane Hotel, family-friendly entertainment at JW Marriott Plant Riverside, culinary focus at Thomas Weihs Haus, or peaceful privacy at Catherine Ward House, Savannah offers accommodations to match every travel vision. The city’s commitment to preserving historic architecture while embracing modern hospitality innovation ensures that every guest—whether visiting for leisure, cultural exploration, or special occasions—can find the perfect home base for experiencing all that this enchanting Southern city offers.
