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The Best Places to Stay in Savannah Near River Street

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When I tell people I live in Savannah, the next words I typically hear are: “You're so lucky!” — usually followed by a smattering of questions about the best places to eat and a discussion regarding whether or not the city is haunted. Finally, good friends ask when they can visit and strangers inquire about where to stay in the Historic District. I thought it was about time I compiled a post with recommendations for the best places to stay in Savannah near River Street (the city's most well-known area).

Looking for the best places to stay in Savannah near River Street? Here are the top hotels, historic inns, and home rentals located within walking distance of the river.

Seeking the best places to stay in Savannah near River Street? Here are my top recommendations. Click To Tweet

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If you're visiting Savannah for the first time, I suggest purchasing this map of the Historic District before your trip. It's extremely detailed and loaded with interesting facts about Savannah.

The Best Places to Stay in Savannah Near River Street

I realize accommodation preferences vary based on personal tastes and budget. To help you begin your search, I've broken this post into categories of hotels, historic inns, and home rentals.

TIP: No access to a car? No problem! You don't need one to enjoy River Street. Narrow your search to options to areas north of State Street — preferably between Barnard and Price Streets. It's a relatively safe area that's within walking distance to everything River Street has to offer.

River Street/Bay Street Area Hotels

There are approximately 20 hotel options to choose from both on River Street and within a short walking distance to River Street. I've only selected options that fall between Broughton and River Street so you won't need a car at all.

  • Andaz Savannah: This one is at the corner of Barnard & Bay Street, which is one street above the river. It won “Best Hotel” for 2 years running in Savannah's annual “Best of Savannah” poll. There's a pool and full restaurant on-site, and you'll be within walking distance of not only River Street, but also City Market and the local shopping mecca of Broughton Street. It's a Hyatt concept property, in case you're part of their rewards program, and has a trendy/modern vibe. The Andaz is a 2017 Gold Award winner on hotels.com, which means confirmed guests consistently rate it “exceptional”.
  • Hilton Homewood Suites: This option is currently ranked #1 in Savannah hotels via TripAdvisor (of the options directly on the river). It's at the far end of River Street, so it's far enough from the bars that you won't be disturbed by the late night drinking crowd. It includes all the typical amenities Hilton offers (pool, gym, etc.). Be sure to join the Hilton Honors program to receive complimentary in-room wi-fi, discounts, and to earn rewards credits. This hotel is fairly new, so it's in fantastic condition. Homewood Suites is a 2017 Gold Award winner on hotels.com, which means confirmed guests consistently rate it “exceptional”.
    • Ideal for: Families traveling with children, business travelers, everyone!
    • Check rates: Booking.com | Hotels.com
    • Learn more: Read Hilton Homewood Suites reviews from fellow travelers on Trip Advisor

Looking for the best places to stay in Savannah near River Street? The Talmadge Bridge and passing Georgia Queen riverboat look stunning at night from the rooftop bar at the Cotton Sail Hotel. It's would make the perfect romantic getaway spot for couples!

The rooftop bar at the Cotton Sail Hotel has beautiful views of the Talmadge Bridge and Savannah's Georgia Queen riverboat.
  • Cotton Sail Hotel: The views from the rooftop bar are incredible — particularly for catching stunning sunsets behind the picturesque Talmadge Bridge. Many of the rooms have exposed brick and feel very authentic to Savannah. While there aren't many food options within the hotel other than tapas style bar food, there are numerous restaurants just steps away on River Street. Check rates

Historic Inns

Looking for the best places to stay in Savannah near River Street? Since Broughton Street is completely decked out during the holidays, the Marshall House is a particularly festive spot if you're visiting during the Christmas season.

Marshall House a particularly festive spot for holiday stays because Broughton Street is so beautifully decorated during the Christmas season. [photo source]
  • Marshall House: This is one of the more well-known options near River Street — thanks to its inclusion on numerous top 10 lists of “most haunted places to stay” in the U.S. The inn is located on my favorite shopping streets in Savannah, but it's easily within walking distance to River Street. This is an iconic location in Savannah and you'll often find ghost hunting tours gathered out front.
    • Ideal for: Ghost hunters, shopping fanatics, and those who appreciate historical properties
    • Check rates: Booking.com | Hotels.com
    • Learn more: Read Marshall House reviews from fellow travelers here on Trip Advisor

Looking for the best places to stay in Savannah near River Street? The Kehoe House was built in the late 1800s and is the perfect place to stay if you're accustomed to personalized attention.

Seeking the best places to stay in Savannah near River Street? The Kehoe House should top your list if you're seeking personalized attention and the best in Southern hospitality. [photo source]
  • Kehoe House: Completed in 1892, the lovingly restored Kehoe House is located next to Columbia Square — which is one of the more peaceful spots you'll find within walking distance to the river. The staff at this refined B&B is well-known for their southern hospitality and accommodating manner. The chef serves a cooked-to-order breakfast for guests each morning  — and on a silver platter, no less! The decor feels very authentic to the time period in which the home was built. I suggest this option for anyone seeking a quiet stay and personalized attention. Kehoe House is a 2017 Gold Award winner on hotels.com, which means confirmed guests consistently rate it “exceptional”.

Looking for the best places to stay in Savannah near River Street? Savannah's Olde Harbour Inn is a classic beauty located directly on River Street. Bonus: They're pet-friendly!

The entrance to the Olde Harbour Inn on Factor's Walk is beautiful any time of year. It looks particularly welcoming with fall and Christmas decorations are on full display.
  • Olde Harbour Inn: The inn is adjacent to the river and has beautiful views of passing cargo ships. They offer a nightly wine & cheese gathering so guests can get to know one another. The delicious ice cream treat that comes with their nightly turn-down service is a sweet touch. Although the inn is historic, renovations include modern amenities and decor. (It's still lacking an elevator, so make note if you struggle with stairs.)
  • East Bay Inn: East Bay Inn is a very charming option on Bay Street. It's full of beautiful antiques, and the staff receives high praise for their southern hospitality. This one is also pet friendly and typically has availability beginning around $150/night.

Home Rentals in Savannah

Prior to moving to Savannah, I always rented homes within the heart of the historic district. My post, How to Rent a Vacation Home You'll Absolutely Love, details my top tips for selecting the perfect home rental. It's definitely worth the read! If you also prefer the convenience of renting a home vs. a hotel, here are my suggestions:

  • River Street Loft w/Balcony: It's rare to find a home or condo rental that offers a balcony overlooking River Street, but this condo does — and in a prime location. It's above a clothing store, so it's relatively quiet during the hours you'll want to sleep. (Beware condo rentals situated above bars or restaurants that operate into the wee hours of the night.) This second story rental is so close to the street you can sit on the balcony and chat with passers-by. With 100+ 5-star reviews on Homeaway.com, it's a clear winner. Check availability
  • Historic District River Street Rental: This is another 5-star rental property with a balcony view located directly on River Street. It's also on the second level, but it's higher up than the option above. That means you'll be further removed from the hustle & bustle (and partiers) walking the street below, and you'll gain incredible views of the cargo ships sailing into port. The balcony is a great spot for catching sunsets and for beautiful photo ops. This option is centrally located on River Street and just steps away from restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Check availability

Related: The Ultimate Guide to River Street in Savannah, GA.

I hope this post has been helpful — or that it at least provides a good starting point in your search. If you have any specific questions about a particular location, please ask in the comments below or email me directly at erin[at]sandsunandmessybuns[dot]com. I'm always happy to help visitors share in my never-ending love for this beautiful city!

Ready to book a flight to Savannah? To find the cheapest flights from your city, search Google Flights to pinpoint the most affordable date for your travel, then search that date in Skyscanner to find the cheapest flight possible.

XOXO, ERIN

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Cover photo image sources: Kehoe House , Galleon, Talmadge Bridge


  • River Street Renovated Condo: This final option is a second level rental in a prime location directly on River Street. It sleeps 4 and has plenty of pots/pans for cooking. Children allowed, pets considered. The bathroom is huge and includes a jacuzzi tub, and the kitchen has granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. There is a balcony, but it's shared with the condo next door. Check availability

Looking for the best places to stay in Savannah near River Street? Marshall House is particularly beautiful when Broughton Street is illuminated with Christmas lights during the holiday season.Searching for the best places to stay in Savannah near River Street? This guide includes the top hotels, historic inns, and most popular home rental options ...like the historic Olde Harbour Inn, which faces River Street.

 

Searching for the best places to stay in Savannah near River Street? This comprehensive guide includes the top hotels, historic inns, and most popular home rental options.

Searching for the best places to stay in Savannah near River Street? This comprehensive guide includes the top hotels, historic inns, and most popular home rental options.

Searching for the best places to stay in Savannah near River Street? Our guide includes the top hotels, historic inns, and most popular home rental options. Spanish galleon image source: Scott Szwast via FlickrCC.

 

Comments

  2. Can you believe I’ve been to Savannah multiple times in my life, but I’ve never been to River Street? I feel like that needs to change soon. I always hear great things about River Street, and Savannah in general. The only time I’ve ever actually been down there are for swim meets, in which case I only really see the pool, and I don’t have too much time to explore. The River Street Loft w/ Balcony seems like the best fit for me for when I go on my Savannah adventure [which may hopefully be this year!].

    Reply

    • That’s the exact opposite of what most people say! They usually visit River Street first, THEN they discover the rest of Savannah. My favorite areas are actually in the historic district and the art district, so I only visit River Street when I’m craving pralines or when I have family in town. 🙂 It’s such a beautiful area, though…I need to go there more often.

      Reply

    • So happy it was helpful! There are so many good restaurants in Savannah! If you like seafood, try Wyld Dry Dock or Pearl’s Saltwater Grille. The Vault and Atlantic are excellent local choices, as is Collins Quarter. For breakfast, go to Clary’s Cafe and check out all the fun memorabilia from Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil. Green Truck Pub has won almost every award imaginable for burgers. Zunzi’s sandwiches are the best. Crystal Beer Parlor is a locals favorite and they serve all types of yummy food. I really need to do a post about my favorite area restaurants bc I could go on forever! Those above should get you started. If you’re headed to the River Street area only, I posted my favorite restaurants in that area on this post: https://sandsunandmessybuns.com/ultimate-guide-river-street-savannah-ga/

      Reply

    • There are so many spots that look as if they’re straight from a movie set. Many of them are, since SCAD has a film school here in town and the Savannah Film Festival draws lots of talent. I ran into Elle Fanning in one of the downtown squares, and Daisy saw Shia LeBeouf a few days after he was arrested while in town filming. lol (Not that she wanted to even speak to him — ugh — but still…it was a sighting.)

      Reply

    • Awesome, thanks for the save. You can always email me if you want help deciding what to do on your next trip. I’m working on a guide about the (supposedly) haunted houses right now, plus some of the most Instagrammable spots in town. 🙂

      Reply

  9. You’ve provided such a great resource, and yes, “You’re so lucky!” I’ve been wanting to visit Savannah for a while now…hopefully soon!

    Reply

    • I lived in San Antonio, TX for the past 20 years (before moving to Savannah), so yes — it’s a great getaway. The climates are similar…hot for 6 months of the year and fairly mild winters. The trees are the main difference. Texas has beautiful old oaks and lots of mesquite trees, but the trees draped in Spanish moss in Savannah are an incredible sight!

      Reply

  12. Currently reading ITGOGAE for the second time and Savannah is on my to-go list. I know it’s so much more than the book, too. How’s the wheelchair access?

    Reply

    • The wheelchair access downtown is pretty good, but River Street is more difficult to navigate. Because it’s on a bluff and sits lower than the rest of the city, there are steep stairs to gain access to it. The Department of Transportation offers a shuttle from Bay St. & Drayton that drops off and picks up on River Street, so that or elevator access from one of the major hotels would be the best option. The Hyatt is very centrally located and you could enter from a car on Bay St., then take an elevator down to the River Street level. Also, just FYI, the majority of River Street is made of cobblestones, so it’s very bumpy.

      Reply

    • It really is. Sometimes I ride my bike around in the evenings and just stare in awe at the beautiful homes in the historic district.

      Reply

    • Oh you should definitely make the trip sometime! It isn’t far at all and it’s so beautiful. Fall is my all-time favorite time of year in Savannah…usually near the end of October or so. 🙂

      Reply

  15. I want to stay at all these places! Thanks for sharing… some very good places you’ve picked out! 🙂

    Reply

    • I totally agree! Before I moved to Savannah, I ALWAYS stayed in home rentals. There are so many beautiful options in the historic district…and it’s so quiet if you stay a couple streets away from River Street. 🙂 My “Tips for Finding the Perfect Home Rental” is one of my most popular posts, so I think a lot of other people prefer the home rentals, too! (Here’s the post: https://sandsunandmessybuns.com/how-to-rent-a-vacation-home/)

      Reply

  17. These look so beautiful! I’ve always wanted to visit Savannah (probably since I read Midnight in the Garden of G & E which you linked!) so this makes me want to find a way to do it soon! I appreciate the ideas for different types of travelers – I have 3 kids so often look for family getaways but maybe in a few years I can start to look at holidays for just the hubs and me! Thanks!

    Reply

    • That book was responsible for stimulating a LOT of interest in the city of Savannah! There’s so much more to the city than the little peek you get from the book, too. I hope you can make it one day soon! If you’re visiting with kids, you could plan a Tybee Island getaway, then plan to spend a day in Savannah with the kids to do the fun “kid stuff” (like ghost tours). Also, you could use care.com or there are plenty of SCAD students who would babysit the kids at the beach so you and your hubby could have a day (or night) to yourself in Savannah while the kids play. That way you’d get a family vacation and a romantic getaway. 🙂

      Reply

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