The beauty of Savannah, Georgia, lies in its history. Founded in 1733, this Southern haven is one of the oldest cities in the United States. Cobblestone streets, historic squares, and antebellum architecture showcase the past, while lively shops, trendy restaurants, and chic hotels have updated it to the present. This blend of old and new is what makes this city so special, giving it a true Southern charm other cities strive for.
In terms of the perfect example of past and present, old and new, is the Thompson Savannah. Located on the banks of the iconic Savannah River, this hotel merges the city’s history with present-day luxury. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a sleek, gray exterior with polished black accents, which surprisingly compliments the historic riverwalk across the way. Once inside, the hotel’s lobby is spacious and bright, featuring massive windows, plush furnishings, and neutral decor, courtesy of Dallas-based design team Studio 11 Design.
As for the accommodations, Thompson Savannah has 172 luxury guest rooms and 21 spacious suites. Complete with rainfall showers, residential-style vanities, big beds, floor-to-ceiling windows, and custom bath amenities from D.S. & Durga, these rooms have the ideal blend of both comfort and luxury. Guests can choose from Premier Suites (which have king beds, separate living areas, and herringbone hardwood floors), King Bed or Double Queen rooms (with river or neighborhood views), or the coveted Thompson Suite (a top-floor spacious one-bedroom suite that boasts one king bed, separate living and dining areas, a wet bar, a pool table, and a rainfall shower and separate soaking tub). And, it’s worth noting the best design feature of every room is the art. Oversized custom art pieces from emerging local artists hang from the walls, giving each space a thoughtful, local touch.
One of the best things about Thompson Savannah–which makes it loved by locals– is the dining offerings. Fleeting is the hotel’s signature restaurant, offering a farm-to-table dining experience that harps on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Because the ever-evolving menu highlights the best of Southern cuisine with a modern twist, guests can expect to enjoy a wide range of dishes, with everything from beef tartare and garden basil bucatini to wood-grilled ribeye and takikomi gohan market fish. As for the star of the show? The dessert menu, of course, which features mouthwatering options including the Carolina gold rice pudding (made with South Carolina blueberries, makrut lime, and milk crumb) and the local blackberry cobbler (crafted from local blackberries with sweet biscuit crunch and vanilla ice cream).
For those looking for a more casual experience, the lobby bar adjacent to Fleeting (aptly named Bar by Fleeting) offers a cozy spot to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail or nightcap, featuring a well-curated selection of wine, cocktails, and light bites. Meanwhile, Bar Julian, located on the rooftop, is one of the hotel’s most popular destinations, thanks to its panoramic views of the Savannah River. Guests can sip on crisp cocktails while noshing on snacks from a creative, Mediterranean-inspired menu. Finally, Stevedore Bakery, which is located on the corner of the hotel, is home to freshly baked pastries, artisanal bread, and gourmet coffee, making it the perfect spot for a quick breakfast or afternoon snack.
The amenities at Thompson Savannah also make it stand out, thanks to a range of offerings guests can take advantage of. The outdoor pool, which sits on the second floor, is a great place to spend any hour of the day. Guests can soak in views of the neighborhood from lounge chairs and cabanas while ordering food and drinks from Bar Julian, Fleeting, and the lobby bar. Plus, the pool is on ResortPass, meaning locals can drop by for a day if they please. Additionally, the hotel has a large fitness center with cardio machines, weights, and strength training equipment.
For those who want to go off-property, they can do so on complimentary bikes located in the lobby. As for the cherry on top? Thompson Savannah has a chauffeur service that’s offered to all guests, which includes free rides around town in a Tesla Model X, which has falcon wing doors that open up. Pro tip: the chauffeurs are Savannah locals, so be sure to ask them for their favorite spots in the city–their recommendations won’t disappoint.
Top Takeaways
Location: 201 Port St, Savannah, GA 31401
Rating: Four-star
The Vibe: Southern charm meets modern luxury.
Food + Drink: 2 restaurants and 2 bars
Our Favorite Part of the Hotel: The hotel offers a chauffeur service to all guests at the hotel. Guests can get free rides to and from the hotel to other areas in the city.
Amenities: Pool; 2 restaurants and 2 bars; chauffeur service; fitness center; room service; pet friendly
What’s Nearby? This hotel is just minutes from the Historic District, where visitors can explore landmarks like Forsyth Park, River Street, and iconic Savannah squares.
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? For a local favorite, grab breakfast at Collins Quarter, a cute café blending Australian and Southern flavors. If you’re in the mood for cocktails, The Grey offers a stunning mix of history and inventive drinks in a restored Greyhound bus station.
Rooms: 193 rooms including 21 suites
Pricing: Rates start at $276/night
Closest Airport: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)
