First time visit/staying at Hotel Andaz

Question

Visiting 5 days starting 3/18. We are not renting a car. Is the bus a reliable way to get to the hotel from SAV? We have signed up for a 3 hour food tour, but would like to know if there are restaurants in the HD that are “don’t miss” places. One of us has a seafood allergy- I’m hoping that’s not going to be a culinary disaster. And one of us wants to go to Tybee Island - I’ve read the comments and it doesn’t seem to be a priority destination, especially since none of us do any water sports. Good reasons not to visit there? Cemetery tours, is one better than another? I can’t get a feel where the Andaz is located; hoping it’s in a central location.

We are a couple of older ladies who want to look at old houses and gardens. I saw the recommendation to take a hop on hop off tour and we will do that the first day.

Answer

Your trip to Savannah sounds fantastic, and staying at Hotel Andaz is a great choice! It's located in the Historic District (HD), so you’re in a very central and convenient location for exploring the city. Many of Savannah’s top attractions, including historic homes, gardens, and squares, are within walking distance from the hotel. As for getting from SAV (Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport) to the hotel, the bus is an option, but it’s not always the most reliable for direct service to the hotel. A more efficient choice might be taking a taxi, Uber, or Lyft, which will take about 20 minutes depending on traffic. If you prefer public transport, there are buses, but you may need to transfer, and it could take longer. I’d recommend planning for a direct ride to avoid any inconvenience with luggage.

For your food tour, Savannah is a foodie paradise, so you’re in for a treat! As for seafood, don't worry—there are plenty of restaurants that cater to all dietary needs. Here are a few "don’t miss" places in the Historic District where you can enjoy a variety of non-seafood dishes:

Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room – A family-style restaurant offering Southern classics like fried chicken, cornbread, and collard greens.
The Grey – A modern restaurant with creative Southern cuisine. They offer non-seafood options, such as roast chicken and pork dishes.
J. Christopher’s – A great breakfast and brunch spot with lots of hearty, non-seafood options. Perfect for a casual, cozy meal.
The Collins Quarter – A hip cafe offering Australian-inspired cuisine, with many vegetarian and non-seafood options.

If your seafood allergy is a concern, I recommend checking with your restaurant servers to ensure that no cross-contamination occurs, especially in seafood-heavy establishments. Most places in Savannah are very accommodating of dietary restrictions, and many chefs are willing to modify dishes to meet your needs.

As for Tybee Island, it’s a lovely destination for those who enjoy the beach, but since you mentioned you don’t participate in water sports, it may not be a top priority. You can enjoy a relaxing walk along the beach or explore the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, but if you’re not interested in the beach or water activities, you may want to consider spending more time exploring the Historic District. Tybee Island does require a bit of travel (about 20-30 minutes by car or a shuttle), so if you’re looking for more time spent in Savannah itself, you could skip it. However, if you’re in the mood for a change of scenery, Tybee Island is a pleasant, quiet spot to enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

Cemetery tours in Savannah are quite popular, and each has its own charm. If you enjoy history, the Bonaventure Cemetery is a must-see, known for its beautiful statues, Spanish moss, and peaceful atmosphere. Many tours, like the Historic Savannah Tours, offer guided trips to Bonaventure with detailed insights into the cemetery’s history and famous residents, such as poet Conrad Aiken. Another popular option is Colonial Park Cemetery, located closer to the city center. If you prefer a more dramatic and spooky experience, the Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil tour might be of interest, inspired by the famous book. But if you’re looking for a quiet, reflective visit, Bonaventure is your best bet.

The hop-on, hop-off tour is a fantastic way to explore Savannah and its historic homes and gardens. It’s an easy way to get around while learning about the city’s fascinating history. You’ll be able to see a variety of beautiful homes, squares, and parks, including the famous Forsyth Park with its iconic fountain. Many of the historic homes in the HD are open for tours, including the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, which is one of the best-preserved Regency-style houses in America.

Overall, you’re in for a wonderful time in Savannah. The Historic District has so much to offer, and the Andaz is the perfect base for exploring. Enjoy your time soaking in the charm, history, and southern hospitality!