Last Updated on January 5, 2025 by Kimberly Stroh
If you’re planning an upcoming trip to Savannah, Georgia it can be hard to assess all of the accommodations in the area from home. There are so many options, from historic B&B’s to chain hotels. You can quickly narrow your search by budget, proximity to popular destinations and amenities. For us, The Desoto met all of our exceptions. This Desoto Savannah Hotel Review is your in-depth guide to one of the city’s swankiest hotel options.
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Desoto Savannah Hotel Review: Swanky & Southern
Aside from the favorable accommodations, it’s clear that the hotel is in a great location. The historic portions of the city are best navigated on foot. Driving and finding your way around each square can be a daunting task.
The Desoto Savannah is located within walking distance of Forsyth Park, by a few blocks and River Street, by several squares (mile or so). My Husband and I were able to access the Savannah sightseeing destinations by foot while our car stayed parked at the hotel (parking is $30/night). Plus, the Desoto is close to Highway 16 when you’re arriving by car. The proximity to everything made our trip a breeze.
The DeSoto Hotel Rooms
We booked a King Suite since we weren’t traveling with kids. Each room has a toilet and shower bathroom combo, small closet, desk and mini-fridge. Our room’s balcony looked over The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and we could see Forsyth Park in the distance.
Our room was very clean with modern touches and felt spacious. The blue and white decor looked fresh and the toiletries provided are above your average hotel shampoo. Formerly a Hilton property, you can see the updated touches from the recent renovations.
My only complaint, coming from a Southern gal, is the lack of ceiling fan in our room. The A/C just doesn’t cut it for me anymore. Also, expect to hear street traffic into the late evening hours, which is standard for Savannah weekends.
Design and Style of The Desoto
As you glide through the revolving door and walk into the lobby, you immediately notice the modern art along the walls. The DeSoto partners with the acclaimed Savannah College of Art & Design to showcase the work of SCAD graduates, emerging artists and fine art photographers. I loved the art gallery feeling and open spaces.
I couldn’t write this Desoto Savannah hotel review without showcasing the vibe. The upscale and modern touches gives a swanky vibe. The lobby is the perfect spot to grab a drink to watch the hustle and bustle.
The Dining Options At DeSoto
Savannah isn’t short of great dining locations. You can easily find popular Southern dishes like shrimp-n-grits, biscuits-n-gravy or banana pudding. The emerging food scene is a great reason to visit the city. Located inside the Desoto, are three unique dining options.
The Buffalo Bayou is your go-to spot for a quick breakfast and gourmet coffee. It’s located in the lobby and starts serving at 6:30am. Don’t miss the signature Honeybee Latte made with Savannah Bee Honey.
If you’re looking for a craft cocktail, the 1540 Room is the place to be. You can nosh on expertly paired cocktails with locally-sourced dishes. The dark and masculine decor around the bar will trick you into staying longer.
Open all day from 6:30am – midnight, Edgar’s Proof & Provision is serving comfort food around the clock. With indoor and outdoor dining options, it’s a great spot to relax and enjoy a family meal. The open kitchen design serves chef favorites, like chicken biscuits with tomato and jalapeño jam.
The Desoto Savannah Hotel Amenities
The pool terrace is the perfect spot to escape the notorious Savannah heat. Sadly, we didn’t get a chance to experience it firsthand since we had cooler weather. That didn’t stop me from admiring it for future visits. It’s an urban swimming pool that looks over the city with built-in lounge chairs. The fire pits and cabanas make it the perfect spot to socialize and relax as a family. The Desoto also has an on-premise fitness center that looks over the pool terrace.
Overall, I would love to visit The Desoto Savannah again. I don’t think Savannah is the most kid-friendly destination, so it worked as an excellent choice for our trip as a couple. You just can’t beat the killer location to everything.