Where to Stay, Sip, Sup and Explore in Savannah

From beach days to rooftop drinks and haunted stays, here’s how to savor Savannah in style.

With its cobblestone streets, Spanish moss-draped trees and a dash of Southern charm, Savannah captures the hearts and senses of all who visit. Blending history with modern flair, the Hostess City of the South offers something for every kind of traveler—whether you’re looking for an artsy escape, a historic pilgrimage or just to soak in the sweet Southern vibes. And its lively atmosphere promises to pulse from day to night.

Wander through the city’s beautiful squares, catch a jazz jam sesh by the river or take a haunted tour—either way, you’ll find exploration, inspiration and creative vivacity through eats, drinks, art and more at every corner. As Forrest Gump might say, “Life is like a box of chocolates”—and Savannah? Well, it’s the kind of sweet spot you want to savor.

DO

Savannah’s Waterfront 
River Street is a vibe you can’t miss. Its handlaid cobblestones are filled to the brim with vibrant energy, lined with ample spots to check out and live street performers bringing the scene to life. Grab a cocktail to-go (hey, open container zone!) and pop into the likes of River Street Market Place for local art, jewelry and unique souvenirs; or River Street Sweets for the famous pralines, a must-eat while in the city. savannahswaterfront.com

Tybee Island 
Craving a coastal reset? Just ~30 minutes from downtown, Tybee brings the beachy vibes—no passport required. Climb the iconic lighthouse for sweeping Atlantic views, wander the pastel-lined streets and grab some fresh seafood—then kick back on sun-drenched sandy shores where the dress code is strictly flip-flops and salty hair. visittybee.com

EAT

Common Thread
Tucked away in a beautifully restored 1897 home, Southern comfort meets contemporary flair in this seasonally inspired resto celebrating Georgia’s finest ingredients—from local produce to meat and seafood. Picture plump oysters jeujed up with habanero oil, or grilled fennel topped with a sunflower tahini. It all comes together in an effortlessly chic atmosphere, altogether making for a charming yet elevated dinner. commonthreadsavannah.com

Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room
A Savannah institution since 1943, Mrs. Wilkes’ serves up heaping platters of fried chicken, buttery biscuits, collard greens and the like—all family-style and cooked up with serious heart. Get there early (we’re talking line up-before-doors-open early) and prepare to share a table with strangers who’ll feel like old friends by dessert. No reservations, no frills—just legendary eats and a hefty helping of Southern hospitality. mrswilkes.com 

Brochu’s Family Tradition
Hidden in an old grocery store, Starland District’s family-owned eatery blew up from the jump, earning nods from Bon Appétit and The New York Times as one of 2023’s best new restaurants in the U.S. But don’t expect any stuffiness here. Brochu’s is all about laid-back vibes and palatable plates—the kind of place you show up for the chamomile-spiced fried chicken or chilled crab dip and stay for the homey feel. brochusfamilytradition.com 

DRINK

Hop Atomica
Brewery, distillery, restaurant—and full-on vibe. Tucked in Savannah’s hip Baldwin Park, the quirky-cool neighborhood spot slings small-batch beers, next-level cocktails and major creative energy. Start with a crisp house-brewed IPA, then level up with a Moscow mule made with house-distilled vodka. Bonus points for the cozy patio and wood-fired pizzas that are *chef’s kiss* for sunny snacking. hopatomica.com 

Repeal 33
Slip into the Roaring ’20s—cocktail in hand. This swanky speakeasy-style spot serves up moody ambiance, leather booths and a spirits list that’s nothing short of swoonworthy—plus Prohibition-era classic cocktails with a bold twist (see: the Bon Appetit, a bone marrow-infused Four Roses old-fashioned). No secret knock needed—just a thirst for seriously good drinks and Savannah-style sophistication. repeal33savannah.com   

The Lost Square
Skyline views, sea breezes and next-level cocktails? Yes, please! Perched atop The Alida hotel, this rooftop bar is where craft drinks and Savannah sunsets steal the show. Sip on refreshing Valencian spritzes, bourbon-forward beauties or a rotating lineup of seasonal stunners—perfectly paired with riverfront views and cozy couches. And that golden-hour glow is basically a built-in filter. thelostsquare.com

STAY

River Street Inn
History’s never looked (or felt) this good. Housed in a 200-year-old cotton warehouse fronting the Savannah River, the downtown Historic District’s iconic boutique stay blends exposed brick, soaring windows and pine wood floors with a vibe that’s effortlessly cool. Not to mention you can step right outside onto the cobblestones of Factors Walk—once the heart of the cotton trade—and soak up the soul of the city. riverstreetinn.com 

The Marshall House
Historic hotel… or haunted hot spot? (Spoiler: It’s both.) Smack in the middle of buzzy Broughton Street, Marshall blends Civil War-era history with a dash of spirited fun—literally. Sip wine in the cozy library, crash in a balcony room overlooking downtown and keep an ear out for ghostly giggles in the hallways. Add in nightly live tunes and you’ve got a stay that’s pure Savannah storybook. marshallhouse.com  

Hotel Bardo
Described as “equal parts urban resort and neighborhood clubhouse,” this is not your typical Savannah stay—and that’s exactly the point. Set across from Forsyth Park, it’s a cool kid’s mecca, what with velvet lounges, poolside flamingo-pink umbrellas, coastal Italian bites at Saint Bibiana, and Saltgrass’ serene spa days. In short, Bardo isn’t just a hotel—it’s a lifestyle. staybardo.com