short trip to Savannah, recommendations?

Question

My husband & I (mid 50's) are trying to plan a short, last minute (mid November) trip to Savannah. Looking for recommendations on best place to stay that would be in a safe area, walking to bars/restaurants. Would like to avoid renting a car, but not opposed to it if it's necessary. Just wanting to have a trip to basically chill, not a lot of activity, but what would be the top must see things to do? Best place to get seafood? Is weather still good enough to hang out by the pool? Hotel with free breakfast would be a plus, but would also do a kitchenette type room to just have snacks/breakfast available to do in the room. We tend to prefer Hilton/Marriott properties, love Embassy's breakfasts. Never been to this area before.

Edited: 1 year ago

Answer

It sounds like you're planning a relaxing getaway to Savannah, and it's a great choice! Savannah offers a charming atmosphere with its historic districts, beautiful parks, and amazing food. Here's a breakdown of your best options for a relaxing stay, things to do, and must-try dining experiences:

Where to Stay: Given that you're looking for a safe, walkable area with bars and restaurants, I'd recommend staying in or near the Historic District. This area is full of charming streets, squares, and a variety of options for dining, shopping, and entertainment, all within walking distance.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Savannah - As you mentioned, you enjoy Embassy's breakfasts, and this one is centrally located in the Historic District, close to many restaurants, bars, and the riverfront. It also offers a daily free breakfast and is a comfortable option for a relaxing stay. The hotel has a pool, so you may be able to enjoy it if the weather is mild in mid-November.
Residence Inn by Marriott Savannah Downtown/Historic District - This Marriott property offers suites with kitchenettes, which might be a good option for you if you prefer having snacks or breakfast available in your room. It's also in a prime location for walking to nearby attractions and dining options.
The Kimpton Brice Hotel - This is a chic, boutique hotel with a pool and a central location near the historic district. It has a great restaurant (The Public Kitchen & Bar), and it’s within walking distance to River Street and other notable spots in Savannah.

Must-See Things to Do: Since you're looking to chill and not over-schedule, Savannah is the perfect place for a leisurely visit. Here are some easy activities you can enjoy without much activity:

Forsyth Park - One of Savannah’s most beautiful parks. It’s a peaceful spot for a stroll, and it has a famous fountain at the north end. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
River Street - This historic street along the Savannah River is filled with shops, cafes, and bars. It's a great place to walk, enjoy the view, and maybe grab a drink.
Historic District Walking Tour - If you're up for a bit of culture, there are many walking tours that can show you the historic homes, cobblestone streets, and the picturesque squares that make Savannah so famous.
Savannah Belles Ferry - For a scenic, leisurely activity, take the free ferry ride across the Savannah River, which provides a nice view of the city from the water.

Best Place for Seafood: Savannah is known for its seafood, and there are some fantastic options to enjoy a fresh meal:

The Grey - Located in a restored 1938 Greyhound bus station, this restaurant offers a modern take on Southern seafood. It’s a must-visit for a more upscale experience.
Olde Pink House - A Savannah institution, this historic building serves delicious Southern and seafood dishes in a charming setting. It’s a great place to experience the local flavor.
A-J's Dockside Restaurant - If you’re looking for something more casual, A-J's offers fresh seafood with a nice view of the water. It’s a laid-back option with good food.

Weather and Pool: The weather in mid-November in Savannah is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the upper 50s to the mid-70s °F. It’s definitely cool enough to enjoy some outdoor time, but whether the pool is warm enough for a swim depends on your comfort level. Many hotels with pools, like the Embassy Suites, will keep their pools open year-round, but you may want to check in advance if you’re hoping to swim.

Transportation: Since you’re not planning on renting a car, you’ll find that the Historic District is very walkable. You can also use public transportation (like the free DOT shuttles) or call a Lyft or Uber to get around. Everything in the Historic District is close enough to walk, but if you want to venture out to areas like Tybee Island or farther out from downtown, having a car or using ride-sharing will be more convenient.

Other Tips:

Check out Chocolat by Adam Turoni for some decadent sweets.
Visit City Market, a pedestrian-friendly area with shops, galleries, and dining options, ideal for a leisurely afternoon.
For breakfast or brunch, The Collins Quarter is a local favorite, offering excellent coffee and delicious dishes in a laid-back atmosphere.

Overall, Savannah is the perfect place to relax, eat good food, and enjoy the charm of the historic district. I hope you have a wonderful time!