Historic district vs midtown

Question

Hi everyone. Looking at Savannah for a possible quick trip in November. Is staying right in the historic district worth the extra money for hotels. Or would we be ok staying further away for cheaper accommodations? We don’t mind taking an Uber to sight see during the day then heading back for a quiet evening as long as the travel isn’t too far/expensive. I appreciate any feedback!

Answer

Great question! Savannah is a wonderful city, and it’s understandable that you’re weighing the pros and cons of staying in the Historic District versus Midtown. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in both areas to help you decide which option works best for your trip in November:

Historic District

The Historic District is undoubtedly the most iconic part of Savannah, with its charming squares, cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and easy access to the city’s main attractions. Staying here will place you right in the heart of the action, and you can easily walk to many of the city’s top sights like Forsyth Park, River Street, and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

Pros:
- Central location with quick access to major attractions.
- Lots of dining, shopping, and entertainment options within walking distance.
- Easy to explore on foot, which is ideal for first-time visitors.
Cons:
- Hotels in the Historic District tend to be more expensive, especially during peak seasons like November.
- The area can get crowded, especially on weekends, and you may encounter more tourist traffic.
- Parking can be a challenge and often expensive if you’re driving.

Midtown

Midtown Savannah is a quieter, residential area that’s a short drive or Uber ride from the Historic District. While it’s not as close to the main attractions, it’s still conveniently located for those who don’t mind a little extra travel. Midtown offers a more relaxed, local vibe, and you can find some great local restaurants and shops in this area.

Pros:
- More affordable accommodations compared to the Historic District.
- Less crowded, offering a more peaceful and quiet stay.
- Good access to major roads and highways, making it easy to get around if you’re renting a car.
Cons:
- You'll need to take an Uber or drive to the Historic District, which adds travel time and costs (Uber rides are typically around $10-15 one way).
- Fewer dining and entertainment options compared to the Historic District, though there are still some great spots in the area.
- You may miss out on the convenience of being right next to major attractions, especially if you're only in Savannah for a short time.

Is It Worth Staying in the Historic District?

If your priority is convenience and being in the heart of the action, then staying in the Historic District is definitely worth the extra cost. It’s particularly ideal if you’re only in town for a short trip and want to make the most of your time without having to rely on transportation too much. The walkability and proximity to major sights can make your visit more enjoyable and stress-free.

On the other hand, if you’re looking to save some money and don’t mind a short ride into the main tourist areas, Midtown is a great choice. The cost savings on accommodations can give you more flexibility to spend on dining and activities. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to factor in Uber or Lyft rides into your budget.

Tips:

Consider checking the availability of off-peak pricing in the Historic District if you're flexible with your travel dates.
Midtown is a good option if you plan on renting a car and don’t mind driving into the city each day.
Take advantage of Savannah’s free trolley services (if available) or public transportation if you're staying outside the Historic District but still want easy access to the sights.

Overall, both options offer their own advantages depending on your preferences. If you're visiting Savannah primarily for sightseeing and want a central, convenient base, splurging on the Historic District might be worth it. However, if you're content with a little more travel and prefer a quieter stay, Midtown offers more affordable accommodations with easy access to the city. Either way, Savannah is a charming city with lots to offer, so you’ll have a great time no matter where you stay!

Historic district vs midtown

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