River Street Inn
Savannah, Georgia
124 East Bay Street, Savannah, Georgia 31401
Original Property Opened in 1817
Historic Hotels of America member since 1999
River Street Inn offers the quintessential Savannah Historic District Hotel experience with a distinctive sense of style. This five-story inn on Savannah’s riverfront was originally used for storing, grading, and exporting cotton. Built in 1817, the original two floors were constructed of ballast stone, stabilizing weights from European ships that were unloaded to make room for cotton. In 1853, three more floors were added to accommodate cotton from the expanding cotton industry. A series of alleys, walks, and bridges, known as Factor’s Walk after the workers who graded the cotton, gave traders access to all floors to move cotton bales from the bluff. The Atrium houses antique and reproduction furnishings, which echo the historic sophistication of Savannah in its glory.
Discover
- Discover the historic industrial architecture of the former cotton grading and storage facility. Built in 1817, the River Street Inn flanks the scenic Savannah riverfront.
- Admire the historic Factors Walk. Built for the storage and grading of cotton, this warren of alleys and walkways extending from the building allowed Factors to inspect and grade cotton.
- Stroll through the Savannah Historic District just beyond the hotel’s front door. A U.S. National Historic Landmark, this prestigious destination constitutes the original colonial layout of the city when English colonists first settled the area in 1733.
Explore
- Travel to the ruins of the historic Wormsloe Plantation, which was once the home of English colonist Noble Jones. Jones crossed the Atlantic with James Oglethorpe, who founded the colony of Georgia in 1732. Via archaeological sites and re-enactments, learn about life in the Colonial era. Stroll through the magnificent avenue of live oaks and Spanish moss.
- Visit the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters. A U.S. National Historic Landmark, this house museum chronicles the heritage of antebellum Savannah. Come gaze upon its beautiful English Regency-style architecture.
- Explore the Sorrel-Weed House. This stunning local landmark was constructed during the early 19th century and features a brilliant blend of Greek Revival- and English Regency-style architecture.
Experience
- Experience the Savannah African Art Museum. This fascinating cultural institution showcases more than 150 different African cultures with its vast collection of historical artifacts.
- Tour the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum. Set within a former 19th-century home, the museum features a wealth of exhibits that commemorate the maritime heritage of the area.
- Visit the American Prohibition Museum. Learn how NASCAR originated during this time since bootleggers needed fast, powerful, durable, and agile cars to make their runs and escape the authorities.
Taste
- Enjoy the atmosphere and food at the Pirates’ House. Dishes include Shrimp N’ Grits and Honey Pecan Fried Chicken. Restored in the 20th century, the House dates back to 1753 and once was an inn and tavern for sailors.
- Taste some classic shrimp and grits when out exploring the city. A traditional Southern dish that originated in Georgia and South Carolina, this delicacy features fresh seafood that is served in a broth of savory boiled cornmeal.
- Savor “Gawgia” Peach Cobbler or other delectable treats after a meal at the Crystal Beer Parlor. This is the most historic restaurant in Savannah, dating back to 1933.
FEATURED ACCOMMODATIONS
Featured Offers
Book the Best Available Rate at this property on HistoricHotels.org and receive a complimentary one-year family membership (a $30 value) to the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
