Should You Book A Modern Hotel In A Historical City? Yes, If It’s Thompson Savannah

“Savannah.” Just saying the name of this endearing southern city aloud evokes images of sweeping live oaks draped in Spanish moss, interspersed between grand old homes and historical landmarks. For years, the city’s tourist lodging mirrored the housing market: long on charm and authenticity, short on convenience and modernity. Recently, a handful of contemporary properties have popped up along the riverfront, just beyond the stricter zoning purview of the Historic Preservation Commission. On the waterfront of the Savannah River, where the Historic District meets the Eastern Wharf, is where you’ll find the latest entrant to the category, Thompson Savannah.

You, along with the 14 million annual visitors, might question whether a shiny new hotel is the right way to go when visiting a coastal port city founded in 1733. Are you missing out on the hands-on southern hospitality of a B&B? Would an intimate inn inside a home from one of the city’s many eras and architectural styles — Georgian, Federalist, Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, or Victorian – deliver more suitable ambiance for a romantic getaway?

The answer to this question depends on your travel preferences. You can immerse yourself daylong in Savannah’s old-world charm, with its sultry air and Gothic mystery, wandering the city’s squares and parks, dining at its restaurants, and visiting its museums. However, a comfortable and contemporary hotel can be a welcome respite after hours of exploring, particularly if you want to relax in a heated pool while giving expired feet a break. (Don’t we all?) In that case, Thompson Savannah stands out among its peers.

Though there’s plenty to do and see in the city, Thompson Savannah does technically offer enough amenities to keep you parked at the property for two days. I’m not suggesting you don’t leave the premises, but, well, let’s have a look.

First, the property features 193 rooms, including 21 suites. Guest rooms provide sanctuary from crowded streets downtown. Floor-to-ceiling windows deliver views of the river or city. Midcentury modern décor in plush velvet fabrics, leather beds, and botanical prints will have you jotting notes for your next home renovation. The bathrooms feature rainfall showers, while the herringbone floors bring an artistic nod to the stately homes in Europe.

The hotel has several dining and drinking outlets and a standout bakery. In addition to the destination-worthy food and beverage program, Thompson Savannah has a fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment from a squat rack to Peloton bikes, a second-floor pool with river views and private cabanas, a business center with meeting rooms, and valet parking. The hotel also offers a concierge service to assist with anything from restaurant reservations to recommendations for local activities and attractions. Other amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, in-room Nespresso machines, and luxury bath amenities. If you’re planning a wedding, the hotel has 10,000 square feet of flexible function space.

For someone who loves to drink and eat, Thompson Savannah has several concepts worth a visit: Fleeting, the main dining room showcasing the talents of Executive Chef Victoria Shore; Bar by Fleeting, a chic and spacious lobby bar; and Bar Julian, an elevated rooftop lounge with thoughtful cocktails, share plates, and insta-ready views.

If you only have time for one repast, book a table at Fleeting. (You’ll also have a chance to enjoy the elegant dining room at breakfast, too.) Executive Chef Shore grew up in a culinary-focused home in Georgia, developing a passion for cooking from her Lebanese family history. After cooking in kitchens along the east coast, she returned home to Atlanta, working in several restaurants before joining the team at Thompson Savannah. Fleeting’s menu evolves with the season, so new dishes appear regularly, often based on what Shore finds at nearby farmer’s markets.

Thematically, Fleeting’s menu blends global flavors and techniques with regional classics, like corn battered shrimp with basil aioli, a play on the South meets Spain. Other exemplary dishes include spiced duck breast with kohlrabi and local blueberries, and a side of spring carrots grown in a hoop house, dressed in tangy sweet layers of apple and ginger glaze, ajo blanco, golden raisin, and coconut chutney. A fantastic wine list runs deep into Europe and across the United States, with thoughtful options in the sub-$60 price point, a welcome addition for wine lovers dining on a budget.

Bar Julian, leads with its cocktail program. The best move is to book a table for sunset sips before dinner, though the Mediterranean mezze and dips, inspired by Shore’s Lebanese roots, might tempt you back for a light dinner. Don’t miss the light-as-air whipped feta and a savory kafta flatbread topped with beef, lamb, and spicy harissa. The drinks list has recently expanded to include more non-alcoholic options, tapping into a growing and inclusive trend, as well as large-format cocktails for groups.

Bar by Fleeting serves creative bites and cocktails inspired by Fleeting, as well as specials like Champagne Nights with half-priced bottles of Laurent Perrier Champagne and Veuve Clicquot every Tuesday and Friday. Roasted east coast oysters are a great pick with bubbles. If you’re watching your alcohol, you can order one of America’s best NA IPAs, Run Wild by Athletic.

Adjacent to the hotel is Stevedore Bakery, led by Executive Pastry Chef Noah Whritenour. Coffee and croissants, or a BEC on soft brioche bun are great ways to start the day, though the thick moist focaccia squares and bread loaves steal the show. Pick up a sesame seed or olive loaf before heading home and store it in your freezer for the occasional slice, when you need a tasty memory from Savannah.

If you’re hoping to align travel with your values by booking properties that engage in community initiatives, Thompson Savannah frequently partners with Savannah’s SAFE Shelter Center for Domestic Violence, hosting donation drives and events with portions of proceeds going to the shelter, such as their spring Maker’s Market. Additionally, on the second Tuesday of every month Bar Julian hosts a Sunset Happy Hour for a cause with 10% of the hour’s revenue donated to a guest non-profit.

The Thompson Savannah Hotel caters to a wide range of clientele. Luxury travelers who appreciate modern, stylish accommodations and exceptional dining experiences; tourists looking to explore the city (complimentary bikes!); business travelers taking advantage of the fitness and meeting facilities; couples seeking a romantic getaway; and solo travelers looking for a comfortable stay in Savannah. The hotel is also pet-friendly. For those afraid of missing out on patterned bedspreads and period-piece furniture, scratch that itch with a few Savannah historic home tours. You’ll be happy for those bedside USB ports by the time you return to the room.

Thompson Savannah, 201 Port St, Savannah, GA 31401. Average Rate is $300/night.