A Town That Never Disappoints!
Ellis Square Splash Pad/Fountain
By Charlene & Richard Mixa
Savannah’s newest “Southern Belle,” welcomes us for an overnight visit to this always captivating town. Under cloudy skies, we are warmly welcomed to the boutique Hotel Indigo Savannah Historic District. Having seen the hotel under construction in December, we are anxious to visit the new “Belle of Savannah.” Impressive and huge! It is the second largest hotel in Savannah with over 250 rooms. Once a 19th-century dry goods storage house and shop, today with its modern style, Hotel Indigo still maintains its historic charm with a pleasing mix of old and new.
Hotel Indigo Savannah Historic District – a new Southern Belle!
From the large open lobby to the elevator to the hallways to our suite, we see the inspirational artistic pieces that capture the vibe of Savannah. Modern yet most inviting, our Indigo King Suite is terrific. The living room in this spacious suite invites one to sit, relax, plan the day or watch the large flat screen TV. The separate bedroom has a plush king bed with fresh white linens. Unique touches are the hard surface floors, sleek furnishings, beautiful rugs and hand painted murals. It’s easy to settle into our suite and feel at home.
Despite threatening rain, with umbrella in hand, we venture out for an evening in Savannah. Located on Bay Street and adjacent to Ellis Square by the City Market, Hotel Indigo is one of the best locations for discovering Savannah. A city for exploring on foot, the hotel is convenient to shops, eateries, the riverfront and Savannah’s many Spanish moss-draped squares. Strolling through City Market, we head to Broughton Street a major shopping thoroughfare in Savannah. Here we find local boutiques, popular chain stores, specialty galleries and unique gourmet shops, as well as, some of Savannah’s best restaurants. We pop in at the Chive Sea Bar and are seated at a table for two in this ultra-modern, glitzy eatery that focuses on intimacy with draped semi-circular booths. Delicious seafood and more are offered at this eclectic eatery.
Five Oaks Taproom welcoming bar
Now for some entertainment or whatever we can find on a cloudy evening. At least the rain has stopped. Around the corner is Jazz’d Tapas Bar, where we enjoyed relaxing music on our last visit. Tonight it’s packed and noisy. Too hectic for us. Strolling the streets, we arrive at Bay Street and pop into the Five Oaks Taproom. Surprise! We are back at the Hotel Indigo Savannah in their vibrant restaurant and bar that features great dining and Georgia-only beer on tap. Sitting at the bar and sipping a local craft beer, the bartender shares insight into the hotel and several local breweries. On his recommendation, we wander down Bay Street to Moon River Brewing Company, just a few blocks away. Hurrah, the Beer Garden is still open. Luckily, we have just enough time to share a pint of their Captain’s Porter, a very robust porter with strong hints of dark chocolate. Definitely time to head to the room for a restful night in our comfy suite.
Basic Breakfast at B. Matthew’s Eatery
A morning walk has us at B. Matthew’s Eatery for a hearty southern breakfast. Breakfast options are numerous but we select the Basic Breakfast. Scrumptious! The eggs are perfect, cheese grits are creamy, bacon is super crispy and the best buttermilk biscuit with a crunch.
With a little time to spare before heading out of town, we leisurely stroll Bryan Street passing by Warren Square, Reynolds Square, and Johnson Square all with beautiful statues, moss-draped oaks and the serenity of Savannah. Arriving at Ellis Square, by Hotel Indigo, we snap a couple of photos on this overcast day. Sweets! Mabel’s Cupcake Emporium that boast some of the best cupcakes is just off Ellis Square. Having had their amazing cupcakes before and knowing our grandchildren love sweets, we pick out some tasty cupcakes. As we depart the Hotel Indigo Savannah Historic District, we bid a fond farewell to the chic and newest “Southern Belle of Savannah.” We will definitely be back on future visits to sensational Savannah.
If you go:
Hotel Indigo Savannah Historic District, 201 West Bay Street, Savannah, Georgia 31401
912.236.4440
http://www.hotelindigosavannah.com/
Note: We learned after our visit where we “named” the hotel the Newest Southern Belle that locals have named it the “Grand Lady of the Bay.”