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1834
The DeSoto
Savannah, Georgia
The DeSoto
15 East Liberty Street, Savannah, Georgia 31401 Original Property Opened in 1834 Historic Hotels of America member since 2017
art
memorabilia
presidential
Situated in the heart of Savannah’s historic garden district, The DeSoto has a storied history, dating back to 1890. Having hosted celebrities, dignitaries, authors, and presidents, the original DeSoto was built in 1890 on the site of Oglethorpe’s Barracks and was the town’s unremitted purveyor of hospitality. The hotel’s current structure, completed in 1968, stands as one of the Historic District’s leading full-service hotels, providing the perfect setting for leisure, business, and conference guests. Guests can get a glimpse of the history of The DeSoto, in a dedicated area in the hotel’s lobby. Terra cotta artwork can be found throughout the hotel – originating from the first hotel – harkening guests to the 19th century. The original 1890 crystal chandeliers, once described as “sparkling clusters,” still shine brilliantly in the hotel’s lobby.
Discover
- Discover the Mid-Century Modern architectural style of The DeSoto. Located on the grounds of a former barracks dating from the early 19th century, this marvelous historic hotel has been among Savannah's most celebrated holiday destinations since 1890.
- Admire the contemporary art installations in the lobby, and the original crystal chandeliers preserved from long ago. Create a personal Sip & Stroll tour of the Historic District after choosing an interesting beverage from Edgar’s Proof & Provision – Savannah is an ‘open carry’ city and open for FUN. In the morning, stop at Buffalo Bayou for coffee and freshly baked pastries before exploring the city.
- Stroll through the Savannah Historic District. A U.S. National Historic Landmark, this spectacular neighborhood was once the original layout for the city when James Oglethorpe founded it in 1733.
Explore
- Investigate the many historic sites of Savannah, which are its enduring legacy. Do not forget to bring a camera when walking through this legendary city’s hallowed streets. All of its storied landmarks sing of Savannah’s southern heritage, as each building and monument brilliantly captivates its unrivalled history.
- Explore the Juliette Gordon Low House, the restored home of the founder of the Girl Scouts. Her former home, an architectural treasure, is now a museum and learning place for the advancement of girls. Learn about her remarkable life and legacy in the museum—it offers fascinating tours and fun programs that bring history to life.
- Travel to the beautifully restored Colonial Park Cemetery, the final resting place for many of the city's earliest citizens. It's a popular stop for the many ghost tours in what's been called America's Most Haunted City.
- Visit the lovely Federal-style Davenport House, which was first occupied by mobile artisan Isaiah Davenport until 1827. Today, the Historic Savannah Foundation operates this fantastic historic structure as a house museum. Additional antebellum mansions resided nearby, too, which make the oak tree and their dripping Spanish moss a sight to behold.
- Journey over to the Green Meldrim Home, which was originally built for an English expat named Charles Green. Constructed in the 1830s, it rapidly became Savannah’s most expensive residence in the 19th century. General William T. Sherman even occupied the house during the American Civil War, writing his famous telegraph to Abraham Lincoln that notified the president of Savannah’s capture.
- Marvel at Savannah’s historic street-grid system. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, most the routes intersect to form verdant public squares within which many monuments of the city’s past reside. In total, 22 beautiful squares proliferate throughout the downtown that feature their own glorious statues. Among the most noteworthy include Tomochichi’s Monument in Wright Square, the Casimir Pulaski Monument in Monterey Square, the Sergeant Jasper Monument in Madison Square, and the Nathanael Green Monument in Johnson Square.
Experience
- Experience City Market, known as “The Art and Soul of Savannah.” This four-block, festive open-air marketplace in the downtown Historic District has farmers markets, cafés, restaurants, shops, and is anchored by working artists' studios and galleries in restored warehouses. City Market hosts live music, street performers, and festivals throughout the year.
- Stroll to the beautifully restored Lucas Theatre for the Arts and catch a film, theatrical production, or musical performance. The theatre opened in 1921 and now hosts the Savannah Film Festival, Savannah Music Festival, Savannah Philharmonic, country music concerts, operas, and traveling repertory companies.
- Enjoy a live performance at the Historic Savannah Theatre, which opened its doors in 1818. Its current Art Deco appearance dates back to 1948, when it was fully rebuilt.. See live theater performances, local musicals, variety shows, and concerts. Check out the lobby museum's historic artifacts, newspaper clippings, and photos of famous performers who have graced its stage through the years.
Taste
- Taste dishes inspired by the Southern flavors of historic Savannah in The DeSoto's 1540 Room. With locally sourced ingredients and a chef-driven menu, the 1540 Room presents such delights as blue crab beignets, poached mussels, oxtail stew with dirty rice, and the breakfast classic, biscuits and gravy. The restaurant's culinary expedition through Southern cooking changes with the seasons.
- Sample a wide range of Savannah's edible delights on a food tour, such as a three-hour walking and tasting tour through the historic squares, gardens, and cultural landmarks offered by Savannah Taste Experience Food Tours.
- Eat like a local, and try a steaming plate of shrimp and grits, that Southern favorite served everywhere from upscale restaurants to low-rent diners. Fried green tomatoes show up everywhere, too, as a side order or for making a classic BLT even more delicious.
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