Georgia

Atlanta

It should come as no surprise that Atlanta has had quite the reputation over the years, but I hope to help change that stigma around by sharing my own adventures and experiences. While Atlanta is almost notoriously known for its cliche of terrible drivers, remember that it’s all relative and you can’t control the world around you. Take it one step at a time and stay off the roads during peak rush-hour; problem solved! There are options though such as long-term parking at your hotel, taxis, Uber, Lyft, etc. Most recently, the city of Atlanta has implemented scooters and bicycles (environmentally-friendly options) for rent with multiple pick-up/drop-off locations in the downtown area. During my most recent visit to Atlanta, I was simply passing through on my way to North Carolina. No matter if I’m passing through, or spending days or a week at a time here, the city and people always seem to impress me. The first time I visited, I spent eight days exploring the city and outskirts of town. I would highly recommend using CityPASS if you plan to visit multiple attractions and exhibits over the course of your stay. The price might seem high ($76 per person for adults, $62 per child 13 and younger), but each ticket provides entrance to the top five attractions in downtown. In the long run, it’s well worth the price! Things to Do: No matter how many times I visit downtown Atlanta, I am always able to find some place new to venture and explore. At some point during my stay in Atlanta, I always make it a point to visit the Georgia Aquarium. However, if aquariums aren’t necessarily “your thing,” there are plenty of other places and opportunities to embrace Atlanta-culture without breaking the bank. Georgia Aquarium – There is no greater feeling in the world compared to the overwhelming sensation of watching four whale sharks swim before your eyes! The Georgia Aquarium is home to more than ten thousand different animals and participates in environmental and oceanic conservation efforts around the globe. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting the Georgia Aquarium on three different occasions and it never ceases to amaze me. The entry fee is steep (to the tune of $40 per person for adults), but offers hours of family-friendly activities for all ages to enjoy. There are cheaper options available online if you’re planning to visit before 11 AM ($30 per person compared to $40). Every ticket comes with a free admission to the Dolphin Celebration show (check showtimes prior to your arrival). Each time I’ve visited, I’ve spent well over five hours wandering from exhibit-to-exhibit. There are several dining options located on premises OR you are free to bring in snacks or a packed lunch as well. Note: parking lot available on site, but is not included in the price – $12 for the day with admission to the Aquarium. $$$

Atlanta Botanical Gardens – I accidentally stumbled upon this beauty the last time I was exploring downtown Atlanta with my husband. Located within a secluded section of Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Botanical Gardens offers 30-acres of gardens and a variety of plant collections all-the-while providing a picturesque view of the Atlanta skyline. Tickets are higher than you might expect ($22 per person), but keep in mind that a percentage of every ticket purchase is donated to environmental conservation. Note: be sure to ask for a AAA discount! Give yourself plenty of time – I made the mistake of arriving only an hour before they closed. There are two cafes/restaurants on property, but don’t be afraid to call ahead and ask about bringing a packed lunch or snack. And don’t forget to pack lots of water too! The garden also has rotating events and exhibitions that will “wow” you beyond belief. Be sure to check the website ahead of time for a schedule of the rotating exhibits. $$ Piedmont Park – I am 100% biased with regards to the beauty that surrounds Piedmont Park – my husband proposed to me on the very bench pictured below! The park itself sits roughly three miles from downtown Atlanta with entrances on all sides depending on where you’re traveling from. There is a parking garage on site, but it costs $2 per hour to park your car. Note: this is the same parking garage you’ll use to visit the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. The park provides a family-friendly atmosphere with a plethora of outdoor activities including a picnic by the lake!

There are many places to visit while in Atlanta – too many to fit them all into a single trip. I’ve been lucky enough to visit each of these places, but long before the idea of a blog popped into my head. With that in mind, at the end of the day, I’d still recommend checking these places out granted you have the time: World of Coca-Cola – Take a peak into the process behind one of the most iconic brands in the world! Learn the history while sampling over 100+ flavors from around the globe. *Tickets included as part of the CityPASS package. $$ CNN Studio – Have you ever wondered what it’s like behind-the-scenes of a news station? The CNN Studio Tour offers you that chance! Located in the heart of downtown, just down the street from the Georgia Aquarium. This walking tour runs 50-minutes in length with your own tour guide to provide an in-depth scoop of the makings of world-wide news coverage. *Tickets included as part of the CityPASS package. $$ Zoo of Atlanta – If you’ve taken the time to visit the Georgia Aquarium, be sure to take the time to visit the outside animals too at the Zoo of Atlanta. Tickets range from $24 per person (adults) to $20 for children 3-11 years of age. Once again, a percentage of ticket sales goes to conservation efforts.$$ Stone Mountain Park – This theme park sits on 3,200 acres of Georgia land! The park offers an abundance and variety of outdoor activities as well as provides an inside look of historic Atlanta life. Tickets start at $32 per person (minimum) to $35 per person (for an all day experience). Dining options available on site or pack a picnic and make a day of it! $$$

Oddities:

I love visiting the same place multiple times and always having something new and different to experience. From my experience, I’ve noticed that the most peculiar attractions tend to draw-in a particular clientele, but that’s half of what makes these places so interesting! Atlanta seems to be no exception by jumping on the oddity bandwagon.  Consider stopping by these places next time you’re in town: Crypt of Civilization

Accommodations:

Upon each of my visits to Atlanta, I’ve never stayed in the same place twice. I’m not sure what that says about my own taste in hotels, but I just haven’t found “the place” just yet. In the past, I have relied on Groupon and Living Social for hotel accommodations, depending entirely on my budget. If you’re looking for cheaper options though, I would recommend that you stay outside of immediate downtown, especially if you don’t mind driving. Places to Eat: RA Sushi – In all honesty, this is the only food location in all of Atlanta that has left a lasting impression. The key is to go during Happy Hour (from 3-7 PM) with half-priced sushi rolls, sashimi, appetizers and drink specials too. Great location in the heart of midtown and a 15-minute walk from Piedmont Park; just in time to watch the sun set! $$

Savannah

Getting Around: Thankfully, getting anywhere in the historic district in Savannah is no more than a 15-minute walk in any direction. For those interested though, there are hop-on, hop-off, bus tours or trolly tours available to easily, and quickly, get around. Keep in mind that there’s no better way to really explore somewhere than jumping in with two feet – literally! Things to Do: Downtown Savannah is a one-of-a-kind place to visit! Situated in the Northeastern corner of Georgia, the city of Savannah feels like a world of its own. Overall, the community is very dog-friendly; hotels, shoppes, and restaurants accommodating at no extra charge. Savannah is quickly growing in popularity, which makes it a “hot” destination for tourists. Be mindful of traveling off-season versus in-season by doing your research ahead of time to avoid the crowds. Historic Downtown – Dating back to the mid-1700’s, downtown Savannah is one of my favorite cities in the southern United States. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll through Forsyth Park or enjoying the history of the city, there are plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Historic Steps – The easiest way to get to River Street is by using the historic steps built into the side of the the wall at several locations on either end, and often in between, along Bay Street. While the stairs continue to be restored and updated, they are both steep and occasionally loose. “Use at own risk” signs are posted along – just be sure to use the handrails! Savannah Bee Company – I hope that it comes as no surprise that saving the bees is at the forefront of today’s global climate revolution. The Savannah Bee Company is dedicated to using locally extracted Tupelo-based honey in all of their products. A percentage of profits is donated towards the preservation of the bee species as well as to educate people about the role honeybees play in our ecosystem and the imminent threat to their survival. You can even adopt a bee too! There are two locations in the greater Savannah region with a variety in products ranging from candles and sauces to beer and wine too. The Savannah Bee Company is a staple while visiting Savannah. During my most recent trip (2019), both stores in the downtown area had updated their inventory to include not only regular honey, but whipped too. Both locations now offer mead tastings in addition to honey samples so you can try before you buy. $$ Books on Bay – If you’re anything like me, you enjoy the smell and feel of an old book. Books on Bay is a vintage book store with novels dating between the 1600-1900’s. The shop is located in the historic district of downtown Savannah and is open seven days a week; open on holidays too. Books available for all ages and the added bonus of three friendly, fluffy, cats live there too! $$ River Street – The name certainly says it all! River Street is a popular tourist-attraction full of shops and restaurants located along the Savannah River. Along the river, visitors are greeted with shipping barges and river cruise boats (available day or night) as well as an unobstructed view of the Talmadge Memorial Bridge. Despite the recent rise in popularity, River Street is still comprised of the original brick road during Savannah’s initial establishment. Visitors are also privy to statues and monuments as well as pop-up art vendors along the river-side, opposite the store and restaurant fronts. Broughton Street – Another popular shopping strip, but located further inland, Broughton Street is a modge podge of both worlds – classic Savannah charm with sophisticated, high-end stores in between. Some notable places of interest along Broughton Street: the Savannah Bee Company, the Paris Market, and Planet Fun. City Market – An eclectic array of shops, bars, and food! Wormsloe Plantation – We was first attracted to this site by images online of the driveway entrance lined with trees! Turns out that the trees are live oaks that are over 100+ years old. I thought that this would be the perfect location to take some newlywed photos since the hubby and I opted to visit Savannah for our Honeymoon. We were pleasantly surprised by the abundance of activities onsite.  The workers are time-period enthusiasts by dressing in typical period dress to provide visitors with an authentic experience. Guided tours are offered every hour-and-a-half. In addition to the unearthed artifacts exhibit, the site also includes the Tabby Ruins (the colonial estate of Noble Jones), nature trails, and picnic areas. Parking runs $5 per car, with a $10 per person general admission co-pay. $ Bonaventure Cemetery – First established in 1846, the Bonaventure Cemetery was originally known as the “Evergreen Cemetery” and covered the expanse of 70 acres. Now, as it is preserved on behalf of the Bonaventure Historical Society (BHS), the cemetery spans over 103+ acres. With its traditional Victorian design, the BHS provides free guided tours that last an hour in length; tours only occur certain days of the year. The cemetery is open yer-round between 8 AM – 5 PM. Note: Our visit to the Bonaventure Cemetery was shy of a month following the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. While the majority of the gravesites remain untouched, there was a large section of the cemetery off-limits due to construction out of respect for the deceased. Cathedral of St. John the Baptist – Originally established in the late-1700’s, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is a widely popular tourist attraction for Savannah visitors. The iconic towering steeples are visible along Savannah’s skyline and attract visitors far-and-wide. Over the years, the church has undergone continuous restoration and conversation efforts. Entrance into the church is “free,” but a $3 donation is expected. Self-guided tours are available Monday through Saturday, but all touring is closed on all major holidays and days of religious observance. $ Colonial Park Cemetery – The Colonial Park Cemetery once served as the primary public cemetery from the 1750’s – 1853. The Cemetery was bought by the Georgia government and turned into a city park in the year 1896. To this day, the cemetery continues to house many of Savannah’s earliest, and most notable, residents and is a very popular spot for ghost tours. While I’ve been to the Colonial Park Cemetery before, I was unaware the role it played in housing the remains of the unfortunate souls during the Yellow Fever epidemic of 1820. Unbeknownst to me, the back wall of the cemetery doubles as a mass grave with scattered cobblestones strewn about. The back right-hand corner is also known to house a poltergeist. Enemies of the heir, beware! Jepson Center for the Arts – The Jepson Center for the Arts first opened their doors in 2006 and provides a rich history of the art and architecture of the area. Visitors are presented with interactive art and educational opportunities in addition to other rotating and traveling exhibitions. The iconic “Bird Girl” sculpture was placed on permanent retainer from its previous home in the Bonaventure Cemetery. Tickets run $20 per person ($15 per person with a valid Student ID). Each ticket provides visitors entrance to all three Telfair Museums in the vicinity. $$ Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters – The Owens-Thomas House was originally built as a private residence in 1819. Following the end of slavery and the turn of the century, the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters were opened to the public in 1954. Only a seven-minute walk from the Jepson Center for the Arts, visitors to the Owens-Thomas House are granted guided-tours of the gardens, carriage house, and slave quarters as well as other interactive exhibits. Entry fee included as part of the Telfair Museums package. $$ Telfair Academy – Only a one-minute walk from the Jepson Center for the Arts, the Telfair Academy covers 200+ years of American and European art history. Set inside a two-story mansion, the Telfair Academy provides visitors an insight into 19th and 20th century paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Entry fee included as part of the Telfair Museums package. $$ Echo Square – If you’ve been to River Street in Savannah before, you’ve probably walked across this X a thousand times without giving it second notice. While there is no plaque indicating it’s whereabouts, the Square is located just West of the Shrimp Factory, along the water’s edge.  The cool part is that the middle creates an echo chamber that only the person standing directly in the center can hear. People may look at you weird, but it’s fun to hear yourself echo; just don’t plan a lot of time here. Talmadge Memorial Bridge – The Talmadge Memorial Bridge is an iconic sight seen along the Savannah skyline, connecting downtown Savannah to Hutchinson Island. The bridge was first built in 1990, but has undergone several bouts of restoration construction to weather-related events over the years. Forsyth Park – One of the most notable attractions in all of downtown, Forsyth Park spans 30+ acres and is open to visitors and locals 24/7. First built in 1840, the park is located within the Savannah Historic District and provides visitors with an array of activities for family members of all ages. The most popular attraction is the Forsyth Fountain, but there are playgrounds, tennis courts, and basketball courses available for use too. Forsyth Park is a great place for an afternoon stroll, relaxing with a good book, or simply people-watching. There is also a small farmer’s market available most Saturday mornings. Free-$ Anonymous Tattoo – My best friend and I had been back-and-forth for just over three years about getting a bee tattoo. When we finally booked our trip to Savannah, we thought, “this is the perfect time!” and thus, our bees were born. Mind you, I have my fair share of tattoos and have always done my research regarding the tattoo shop and artist beforehand. However, time did not permit me to extensively research the available places in Savannah as I had originally wanted. And yet, the tattoo-gods were on my side because we totally lucked out with Shaun Beaudry at Anonymous Tattoo. For our short stay we were able to walk-in and book an appointment for the following afternoon; while walk-ins are welcome, appointments are preferred. It’s really important that your schedule is flexible to accommodate the artist’s schedule too. Located above the Churchill’s Restaurant and Bar, the shop itself is quiet and isolated, but offers a unique view of the historic downtown district. Deposits are taken up front, but are applied to the overall cost of your tattoo. Don’t forget to tip your artist! For those who do want to plan, be sure to check out their instagram page. $$-$$$$ Other notable places to visit: Savannah History Museum Andrew Low House Places to Eat: My husband likes to remind me that the best places to visit are those with the most memorable food locations. Luckily for me, we visited Savannah during our honeymoon which means I was no longer trying to fit into a wedding dress. Cue all the food. Matthew’s Eatery – While I can’t speak on their lunch or dinner menus, I can, without a doubt, say that this place has the best breakfast I’ve ever had. In fact, I often ask my husband if we can drive here just for breakfast – and we live six hours away! Matthew’s Eatery offers guests an unparalleled twist on traditional, New-American style bistro food. I can’t even fathom visiting Savannah without stopping by Matthew’s Eatery for breakfast. Case in point: my first breakfast-stop during my recent trip (2019) was to get the fried-green tomato and crab cake eggs benedict. Matthew’s Eatery is located on the East end of Bay street as part of a house-turned-restaurant with rustic decor. While the portions are above average and can easily be shared, I wouldn’t recommend letting anyone near your food. It’s that good! $$ The Chromatic Dragon – Do you love food? Drinking? Games? Then the Chromatic Dragon should be a top priority during your visit to Savannah. Patrons can enjoy traditional American and British pub food, with nerdy names of course, while playing their selection in board and/or video games. And, because what good bar isn’t equipped with a plethora of drinks, the Chromatic Dragon offers pints of craft beers or gamer-themed mixed drinks. $$ Leopold’s Ice Cream – Leopold’s was first brought to life in 1919 when three brothers from Greece decided to open their own ma-and-pa shop. Now, world-famous, Leopold’s is known as a Savannah tradition. Over a century in the making, in addition to their homemade ice cream, Leopold’s also offers made-from-scratch soups, sandwiches, salads, and other baked goods. We had a very difficult time limiting ourselves to only one visit a day! $ Flying Monk: Noodle Bar – My husband and I enjoyed our first meal as a married couple here. The Flying Monk Noodle Bar is unlike any other Savannah restaurant with its use of authentic asian-style noodles. The chefs use fresh, locally grown vegetables and imported spices to bring the asian-inspired cuisine to life. The menu even includes vegetarian and gluten-free options too! The Flying Monk is also another must on your visit to Savannah. Rated the number one Asian Fusion restaurant in Savannah, the Flying Monk is popular amongst tourists and locals alike; plan at least a 30-minute wait at any time of day. The pho and/or soups are large enough to be split, but once again, not worth having to share that yummy goodness. $$ Moon River Brewing – The historic building that now houses Moon River Brewing was once Savannah’s first hotel ever in existence. One of the oldest buildings in all of Savannah, formerly a hotel, the brewpub was founded in the late 90’s where it was transformed into the relaxing environment it is now.  The menu ranges from traditional bar comfort food to eclectic gourmet cuisine with hand-crafted beers brewed on-site. Moon River Brewing is also a popular attraction for the stories and legends surrounding the poltergeist activity on the top floor. Come for the beer, stay for a genuinely-haunting experience! $ The Coffee Fox – If you’re looking for someplace new and refreshing compared to the hype of Starbucks, the Coffee Fox is the place to go. Located in the heart of mid-town Savannah, the Coffee Fox is a craft coffee house with a full espresso menu, pastries, cheese boards, and more. $

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Crystal Beer Parlor – Savannah’s oldest and long-standing restaurant, the Crystal Beer Parlor was originally a family grocery store turned restaurant following the repeal of Prohibition in the 1930’s. With over 80+ beers available, with 26 on tap, the Crystal Beer Parlor is a favorite amongst the locals. The food is fairly priced and offers a wide, extensive, kid-friendly, menu for all to enjoy. $

The Six Pence Pub – What used to be known as “Wally’s Sixpence” for over forty years, the Six Pence is rated Savannah’s most authentic English pub! An interesting take on traditional American and British pub-fare, the Six Pence is open for lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks. As a pub, the bar offers craft and seasonal beer on draft with the option to take your favorite beverage “to-go.” $$

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Jazz’d Tapas & Bar – Known as the “underground hot spot” by locals, Jazz’d provides a special twist with the creation of Americanized Tapas. Over 35+ tapas options, patrons are encouraged to order enough to share for the whole table. Jazz’d opens daily at 4 PM and stays open late. Where the locals go to enjoy live music six nights a week – jazz, blues, swing, classical, and more! $$

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Savannah Distillery & Ale House – The site itself pays homage to Savannah’s unique and captivating history. With over 23 craft beers available on tap, rotating daily, the Savannah Distillery & Ale House has something for everyone. $ Top Deck Bar – If you’re looking for a good place to unwind at the end of a long day, as well as a place with a view, Top Deck Bar is the place to go. The bar itself sits atop the Cotton Sail Hotel and offers an incredible view of the Savannah River on one side and downtown Savannah on the other. The bar is open late with a full-service food menu too. $$ Chive: Sea Bar and Lounge – Located along Broughton Street amidst the hustle and bustle of shops, Chive is a glitzy, upscale, prohibition-style restaurant and bar. The place screams “Gatsby” with its glittery chandeliers and velvety curtains separating tables; takes you back to the glamour of the Roaring 20’s.  If you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, then this is the place to go. Chive opens daily at 11, just in time for the lunch rush, and offers a variety of moderately priced seafood options. My friend and I shared the red snapper with asparagus, edamame, and cherry tomato risotto as well as the she crab soup (another staple found on every menu). I would only recommend sharing if you’re extremely hungry, but for the cost and portions, the lunch-size platters are large enough for two to eat comfortably. $$-$$$ Churchill’s – On a recent trip to Savannah (2019), my friend and I were in the mood for some late-night munchies after exploring our first evening in historic downtown. We were initially on our way to Moon River Brewing for their nachos, when we passed by Churchill’s with their menu posted on the front door. The descriptions alone peaked our interest , but the option for outdoor seating on the rooftop terrace sealed the deal. Even though the rooftop doesn’t offer a direct view of the city, it does provide the opportunity to embrace the culture of Savannah. The potato skin nachos with gouda cheese, sweet peppers, caramelized onions, and bacon are so dank, we had to come back a second night for them; portion sized for two. We also shared the pimento croquettes with buttermilk ranch which were equally as delicious! In addition to the food, the drink menu was also very inviting with cutesy names like “A Bee Named Borris” and “In the Garden of Evil.” Just don’t be fooled by their descriptions  – stick with what you know! $-$$ Little Duck Diner – A vintage-modern diner tucked away on the outskirts of the west-end of the historic district, the Little Duck Diner is an instant classic. Their menu offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options available for order all day. The food itself was delicious, although the menu descriptions were a tad misleading. We each ordered the risotto stacker which consisted of a cheesy-risotto cake, sausage patty, topped with a sunny-side up egg. The menu did not mention, however, that it was served with a side salad; a bit odd for a morning dish. Thankfully, by this point in the trip, we weren’t in the business of sharing our dishes anymore as the portions were much smaller than anticipated. Not to worry, the side of hash browns we added more than made up for our disappointment with the portion size.$ Moss and Oak – A part of the Hyatt Regency hotel, Moss and Oak is open for both guests of the hotel and other patrons around Savannah. In all honesty, what initially drew our attention to this place were the pictures online of the fire-pits and views of River Street. The place itself is unassuming but overlooks River Street and the Savannah River. We ordered the fig and goat cheese flatbread as part of the daily specials, but it was nothing to write home about. There is, supposedly, a rooftop beehive, although I cannot either confirm or deny this attribute. $$ Fitzroy – In order to kill some time in between our arrival and an appropriate time to eat dinner, my friend and I popped into the Fitzroy Gastropub for some pre-dinner drinks. Luckily we arrived only minutes before happy-hour ended which offered half off glasses of wine, draft beer, and select cocktails. The downstairs section was cute and swanky, but we were more interested in the rooftop terrace in an attempt to enjoy the weather outside of Florida’s humidity. Even though the terrace didn’t offer a view of the city, outside was strung with lights and heaters to off-set the chillier weather, on occasion. While we didn’t opt to eat here for dinner, the food menu is definitely worth reviewing! $-$$ Coco and Moss – A unique twist on traditional Japanese food, Coco and Moss is a modern, chic asian-fusion eatery. The menu offers a plethora of sushi and sashimi options as well as other classic Japanese based entrees.  In our true fashion, neither one of us can go a few days without eating sushi, therefore we opted to share a three rolls: volcano, snapper, and the CoMo. The portions are large as well as fairly priced. Most importantly, the fish was super fresh! $-$$ Georgia Tasting Room – Tucked away as part of the City Market, the Georgia Tasting Room is an opportunity for patrons to try Georgia’s local flavors. While their main focus is on wine, they also offer fifteen local brews on tap as well as wine-based smoothies. All drinks are available for purchase in a to-go cup (thanks to Savannah’s open-container laws). Even though I wouldn’t normally choose to drink moonshine, their Peach Moonshine (pictured below) is to die for; maybe quite literally because you can barely taste the moonshine. If you’re unfamiliar with this concept, think of the Georgia Tasting Room as a local Wet Willies. $$ Collins Quarter – On our last morning in Savannah, we decided to visit another breakfast spot amongst the locals. Recommended to us by the staff of our hotel, the restaurant itself is what you would consider a traditional breakfast-joint. However, the food is what sets itself a a part from the rest of what Savannah’s eateries have to offer. During our visit, we ordered the CQ Biscuits – apple sausage, poached egg, apple slaw with bacon gravy – and the Upstream Supreme – smoked salmon, chive cream cheese, and red onion on an everything bagel – but the menu has plenty more to offer. The portions are average-sized, both large enough to share, but also small enough to fill you up without feeling over-stuffed. $$ Savannah Smiles – While I haven’t had the distinct pleasure of going to Savannah Smiles, I’ve heard nothing but good things about it from tourists as well as the locals too. A dueling piano bar by day and early evening, Savannah Smiles also turns into a “hip” nightclub in the late-evening hours. Note: $5 cash or $6 credit cover charge. $-$$$ Accommodations: The Kimpton Brice – During my most recent visit to Savannah, I wanted to stay somewhere immediately within the historic district, without having to move my car or take a boat to reach downtown. Cue: the Kimpton Brice Hotel, commonly referred to as “the Brice”. And before you ask, yes, it’s just as pretentious as the name suggests. Located on the east end of the historic district, adjacent to the Pirate House, the Brice is the place to stay in Savannah. The staff is super friendly and very knowledgeable about the ins and outs of the historic district. The place itself is sophisticated and classy, but most importantly clean and affordable. According to local legend, it’s also haunted by the spirit of a young boy and two separate horses as the building once operated as the local stables. Visitors are also greeted by a daily, 4-5 PM, wine soiree (included in the nightly charge) and all pets are welcomed, free of charge too! Be weary of parking here though – patrons are welcome to valet park OR park in the hotel’s garage for $31 for a 24-hour period. However, public street parking is a more affordable means of staying long-term. For your convenience, use the phone application, Park Savannah, to pay online ($1 for 12 hours with hours 8 PM – 8 AM free); users also subject to parking discounts through the application too. In total, we spent $20 for four days of parking compared to the $124 the hotel would have charged. Due to its easy location perpendicular to Bay Street, most attractions were no more than a 15-minute walk. If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay while in Savannah, look no further! $$ Four Points by Sheraton – Unfortunately, the Four Points by Sheraton is currently undergoing renovations and, thus, closed to the public. When it does reopen, its location is highly convenient as it’s situated along the Savannah River with a ferry that picks-up and drops-off visitors in the heart of downtown. $$$

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