National BETA Conference

Question

My daughter is a BETA student so we will be coming to Savannah for the National BETA conference taking place around Father's Day weekend. Due to so many elementary students coming in for the conference we were unable to stay at the same hotel as her school. I currently have 2 rooms booked for the conference rate one at the Hilton Garden Inn, and one at the Embassy Suites. Both seem to have about the same reviews, but curious if one is safer and closer to the convention center than the other. Is one more family friendly than the other? Also looking for suggestions/ideas on things to see/do with a 10 year old during our downtime from the convention. We are hoping to be able to park our car and walk most places.

Thank you for your time and help!

Answer

Both the Hilton Garden Inn and Embassy Suites are great options for your stay during the National BETA Conference in Savannah, as they are both centrally located with good access to the convention center and the city’s attractions. Here’s a breakdown of each hotel and suggestions for family-friendly activities during your downtime:

Hilton Garden Inn:

Location: The Hilton Garden Inn is located on the eastern side of the Historic District, just a short walk from the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center. It’s about a 5-10 minute walk across the river to the convention center, making it quite convenient. The hotel is also near River Street, so it’s easy to access many restaurants, shops, and historic sites.
Safety: The Hilton Garden Inn is in a well-trafficked area with a mix of residential, business, and tourism zones. The surrounding area is generally safe, but as with any urban location, it's always a good idea to be mindful at night, especially when walking along the riverfront or in quieter areas.
Family-Friendly: The hotel offers family-friendly amenities such as an indoor pool, which is great for the 10-year-old to burn off some energy. The rooms are spacious, and there’s a small on-site restaurant that could be convenient for quick meals. However, the Hilton Garden Inn is more of a business-oriented hotel, so it may feel less "resort-like" compared to the Embassy Suites, which could make it feel a little less family-focused.

Embassy Suites:

Location: The Embassy Suites is located closer to Bay Street and is about a 10-15 minute walk from the Savannah Convention Center. It’s right near the Riverfront Plaza, which has a more tourist-friendly vibe. This hotel is also close to some great shops and restaurants, and it’s a bit more central in the Historic District compared to the Hilton Garden Inn.
Safety: The Embassy Suites is also in a safe area of Savannah, close to the riverfront and many popular attractions. It is located in the more bustling part of downtown, so you may encounter more tourists and foot traffic, which tends to make the area feel lively and safe, especially during the day.
Family-Friendly: The Embassy Suites is known for being more family-oriented. They offer a variety of amenities like a free cooked-to-order breakfast and an evening reception, which could be great for families with children. They also have an indoor pool, which is ideal for your 10-year-old. The hotel’s larger suites with separate living areas make it easier for families to spread out. The proximity to River Street also gives your family easy access to a variety of fun activities, from shopping to sightseeing.

Comparison:

Both hotels are relatively safe, but the Embassy Suites may feel a bit more family-friendly due to its spacious rooms, family-focused amenities (like breakfast and evening receptions), and its location near more family-friendly attractions. The Hilton Garden Inn is more suited to business travelers but is still a great option for families, offering good amenities and a short walk to the convention center.
As for proximity to the convention center, the Hilton Garden Inn is slightly closer (a 5-10 minute walk), but both hotels are within walking distance of the convention center and downtown attractions.

Things to See/Do with a 10-Year-Old in Savannah:

Savannah Riverfront: Take a stroll along River Street to enjoy the shops, cafes, and street performers. The riverfront has a relaxed atmosphere and is a fun place to walk around with kids. You can also take a Savannah Riverboat Cruise for a scenic tour of the river.
Forsyth Park: A beautiful park with fountains, walking paths, and plenty of space for kids to run around. The iconic Forsyth Fountain is a great photo op and a favorite spot for families. There’s also a playground for children to enjoy.
Savannah Children's Museum: Located in the Central of Georgia Railway Station, this museum is perfect for kids and offers hands-on exhibits that will keep your 10-year-old entertained. The museum is designed to be both fun and educational.
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist: This stunning church is a great place to visit for a dose of culture and history. Its beautiful stained glass windows and architecture will impress both you and your child. While the Cathedral is quiet, it’s often a calm and peaceful stop in Savannah.
Ghost Tours: Savannah is known for its haunted history. There are family-friendly ghost tours, which can be a fun (and slightly spooky) way to explore the city. Companies like Old Town Trolley Tours offer evening tours that are appropriate for children.
Savannah History Museum: If your child is interested in history, this museum provides an engaging way to learn about the city’s past. It’s located in a beautiful building and offers interactive exhibits that children can enjoy.

Overall, both the Hilton Garden Inn and the Embassy Suites are great choices for your stay during the National BETA Conference, but the Embassy Suites might feel slightly more family-friendly. As for things to do with your 10-year-old, Savannah is filled with charming parks, historic sites, and activities that will keep your child entertained while allowing you to enjoy the beautiful city.

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