Luxurious Savannah

Savannah’s remarkably well-preserved historical buildings and celebrated contemporary arts scene offer an elegant feast for the eyes.

Since 1992, Savannah's Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences has pursued an effort to preserve and completely restore The Owens-Thomas House, circa 1819. The granddaughter of longtime owner Congressman and Savannah Mayor George Welshman Owens donated the house and its contents to the art museum in 1951. Now, as a gallery of period art and furnishings and classic architecture, The Owens-Thomas House is open for visitors to enjoy.

Opened in 1886, after wealthy art collector Mary Telfair left her estate and belongings to the Georgia Society, this is the oldest art museum in Southern territory. Made up of three buildings, with very different, but equally fascinating architecture, the art and cultural artifacts inside are not the only jewels to see. The Telfair Academy has a neo-classical design and offers a glimpse into 19th century life. The Owens-Thomas House is a national historical landmark given to the museum in 1951. The newest 2006 Jepson Center offers a 64,000-sq. foot space, bringing modernism to the century-old museum. From art classes, to rotating and permanent collections, this museum offers visitors a chance to transport themselves in time. Visit the museum store on the way out, or even rent out space for a private party. Admission is $9 for adults, $8 for seniors, $6 for students and $4 for children. Group rates are available.

This elegant restaurant is housed in a building that dates to 1790. Formerly a cotton warehouse, as were most of the structures along the river, Chart House is now home to some of the most scenic dining in the city. Take a seat on the deck to observe the river traffic, or retire inside to perhaps the most charming bar on Bay Street. The prime rib and steaks are favorites, and the seafood is extraordinary. For dessert, newcomers must try the signature mud pie. Full bar service and excellent wine list available.

The Mansion on Forsyth Park is situated in the heart of Savannah, walking distance from River Street, and approximately 10 miles from Savannah International Airport. Recently opened in 2005, this luxury property is set in an 1888 mansion overlooking Forsyth Park. Hotel amenities include 700 Drayton, which features two lounges, eight private dining rooms, and a terrace. Guests may enjoy the fitness center and full-service spa. The hotel also offers room service, 24-hour concierge service, a business center, laundry/valet services, and valet parking fee of 19 per day. Small pets accepted with a 100.00USD Non-Refundable Deposit. Additional fess will apply for any damage to room.Guest rooms feature hairdryers, irons, ironing boards, coffeemakers, complimentary newspapers, safes, flat-screen TVs, cordless telephones, voicemail, wireless high-speed Internet access, and luxury bath amenities. The Bohemian King includes pillow top bed, open air bath with vintage tub, bath amenity, Complimentary Wine and turndown service with Chocolate Piano. All rooms are non-smoking--250 fee for smoking in room.

Wormsloe Plantation is worth a visit if only to see the welcoming mile-long driveway lined with huge live oak trees. Located approximately 10 miles southeast of downtown Savannah, the plantation was established in 1737 by Noble Jones, one of the first British colonists who arrived in Georgia with General James E. Oglethorpe. A plantation house built in 1828 stands at the site, as does the remains of the original house built by Noble. A museum displays artifacts.

Completed in 1820, this handsome building on Columbia Square is one of the city's finest examples of Federal architecture. Its proposed destruction in 1953 caused such a public outcry that seven local women raised over $20,000 to prevent it. From this impetus was born the Historic Savannah Foundation, which through the years has been responsible for restoring over 1000 historically and architecturally significant city structures. Admission: $6 Adults; $3 Children 6-18

Legend has it that this amazingly pink building has hosted such notable figures as Sherman's generals and revolutionary patriots. Today, it serves as a romantic restaurant, offering such fine selections as a blue crab-stuffed grouper and other traditional regional delicacies. The antique appointed dining room glows by candlelight in the evenings and a fantastic wine list complements the menu. For more casual affairs, take your meal in the elegant piano bar downstairs, where live music is offered nightly.

This site is one of the most complete light stations in the U.S., retaining not only the lighthouse, but also all of its support buildings. The 154-foot tall lighthouse is the oldest and tallest active lighthouse in Georgia. Visitors may climb a spiral staircase to the top for an impressive view. Track your progress and catch your breath at several landings along the strenuous staircase route. Look down and you will see Fort Screven, which houses the Tybee Island Museum.

Want to see Savannah from a different view? Take a cruise on the Savannah River Queen, a replica 19th century stern-wheel riverboat. Daily one-hour sightseeing cruises are offered from River Street. Lunch, Sunday brunch, and dinner cruises are offered nightly. Some evening cruises have special themes, such as a gospel cruise with live music and a murder mystery cruise. It is also available for group events. No reservations are needed for the sightseeing cruise.