Why Savannah 

  • Named one of the South’s Best Cities by Southern Living, one of the U.S.’ Friendliest Cities by Condé Nast Traveler and among Favorite Cities in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure. 

  • Savannah is considered the first planned city in the U.S. 

  • Many of Savannah’s restaurants boast James Beard recognitions. 

  • More than 30 non-stop flights arrive directly into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, just 15 miles from the city center.  

 

What’s New in Savannah 

Savannah-What's new

 

  • The Savannah Convention Center is doubling in size with 100,000 square feet of additional exhibit space. 

  • Learn about Savannah’s rich Black history through Savannah Black History Tours. 

  • The Eastern Wharf is a new waterfront district that runs along the Savannah River, complete with riverfront promenade. 

 

There are plenty of options when it comes to things to see and do in Savannah, as well as places to grab a bite to eat, or host a power lunch or dinner. Here, we look at a few spots to pique your interest. 

 

 

SEE 

 

Savannah SEE

 

Plant Riverside District 

Originally a 1912 power plant, Plant Riverside District is a reimagined space that’s filled with dining options, wine tasting opportunities and, of course, shopping. Public spaces offer myriad events, including yoga on the river, mixology classes and live music played late into the night.  

 

Wormsloe State Historic Site 

Take your guests offsite to one of Savannah’s historic sites, Wormsloe. What was once the estate of Noble Jones, who arrived with the first group of settlers from England in 1733, Wormsloe is now a living museum. Follow the interpretive nature trail beneath ancient live oaks and see the tabby ruin, the oldest standing structure in Savannah. 

 

SCADstory 

The Savannah College of Art and Design, affectionally known as SCAD, has been a part of Savannah’s landscape since its inception 1978. SCADstory shares the college’s story through a 4D experience highlighting all 25 disciplines, including animation and entertainment design. 

 

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services 

 

 

DO

 

Savannah DO

 

Take a Ride 

One fun way to see more of Savannah is on a pedicab. A bike cab pedaled by a professional driver will whisk you all around the historic district, pointing out highlights along the way. Routes can be customized, too, whether your group is interested in historic homes, haunted houses, or pretty much anything else. 

 

Go For a Paddle 

Take a seat in a kayak and paddle the marshes of Moon River and Skidaway Narrows for a closer look at the landscape that surrounds Savannah. Along the way you may be able to spot dolphins, otters, eagles and osprey. 

 

Mix It Up 

It may seem unlikely, but you and your guests can take a cocktail class at the American Prohibition Museum. Not only will you learn to make classic cocktails, but the certified bartenders will share the histories behind them. We’ll toast to that! 

 

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services 

 

 

EAT 

 

Savannah EAT

 

Common Thread 

Housed in the historic Krouskoff House on Thomas Square, Common Thread carries on its sister restaurant in Bluffton, South Carolina, FARM, by producing, providing and serving locally-sourced foods to its guests. Dinner is served nightly, and a variety of rooms throughout the house are available for events. 

 

Artillery 

More Savannah history can be discovered at Artillery, a sultry cocktail bar named after the space in which Georgia Hussars’ armory once housed the cavalry's artillery. In addition to an extensive menu of classic and contemporary cocktails, you’ll find an impressive wine and spirits list, too. 

 

Leopold’s Ice Cream 

For 105 years, Leopold’s Ice Cream has been serving up its cold, sweet treats to its adoring public. Yes, it’s that good! Order a milkshake or malt from the soda fountain, or pick your favorite flavor of ice cream and enjoy it on a cone. One to try: Tutti Frutti, the original 1919 recipe — rum raisin ice cream with candied fruits and roasted Georgia pecans. Or, treat your guests and have Leopold’s catered into your event.  

 

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services 

 

 

Stay/Meet 

 

ALHI Members Hotel Bardo Savannah and The DeSoto are ready to welcome you and your guests with the southern hospitality for which Georgia is known. 

 

Hotel Bardo

 

Hotel Bardo Savannah 

The new two-acre luxury Hotel Bardo Savannah opened earlier this year with a decor inspired by the Mediterranean coast and the glamor of 1960s travel. That’s not to say the hotel isn’t state-of-the-art — it most certainly is, with more than 22,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor meeting and event space. Your guests will luxuriate in the nearly 150 guest rooms, including 50 suites, some with chef’s kitchens. One already-popular spot is the 25-meter pool, flanked by palm trees and certainly a place to see and be seen. 

 

 

DeSoto

 

The DeSoto 

With nearly 250 guest rooms and suites, The DeSoto in Savannah’s historic district boasts 20,000 square feet of meeting and event space, not to mention three onsite dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner: 1540 Room, Proof & Provision and Buffalo Bayou for on-the-go grabs. Tap into Chef Collin’s expertise to create unforgettable bites for your snack stations, reception and full meals. Arrange a Sip & Stroll guided walking tour of the Historic District and yours will be an event to remember. 

 

For more activities and ideas, ask your ALHI GSO about working with Hosts Global Destination Services