Thompson Savannah Review
At Thompson Savannah, relax in upscale sophistication at the edge of the Savannah River, where the Historic District seamlessly blends with the Eastern Wharf.
This stay is part of the Thompson Millionaire Challenge and Live Luxe Travel Co.'s Thompson Tour. We're on the road to stay at all 19 Thompson Hotels by August 31st. Follow along this tour.
This hotel offers a luxurious retreat along the scenic Savannah River, seamlessly blending luxury accomdations with historic charm. Situated where the Historic District meets the vibrant Eastern Wharf, the hotel provides stunning river views, upscale accommodations, and exceptional dining experiences. Guests can discover a perfect blend of Southern hospitality and contemporary elegance at Thompson Savannah.
Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, Thompson Savannah has plenty of amenities to cater to all travelers including a rooftop bar, rooftop swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness center, a buzzy lobby bar, an amazing lobby restaurant, Fleeting, and versatile event spaces.
This review is based on our personal stay in May of 2024. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at Thompson Savannah. or any other Thompson Property, when you book through Live Luxe Travel Co. you’ll receive complimentary Hyatt Privé benefits such as a complimentary room upgrade, if available (confirmed within 24 hours of booking), a $25 - $100 USD or USD equivalent property credit per stay (conversion rate is determined by the hotel - credit amount varies by property), daily complimentary breakfast for 2 guests per day, a welcome amenity & letter, priority for early check-in and late check-out, (subject to availability and forecasted occupancy) and priority for connecting rooms, if available (subject to forecasted occupancy)
Rooms
Thompson Savannah offers 172 luxury guest rooms and 21 spacious suites, each featuring chic, midcentury modern design. Guests can wake up to stunning views of the Savannah River or downtown through floor-to-ceiling windows. Thoughtful in-room/suite amenities include rainfall showers, city-inspired botanical patterns, curated artwork, and herringbone wood floors, adding an artistic touch to every stay at this stylish hotel near River Street.
During our stay at Thompson Savannah, we had the pleasure of experiencing the luxurious Thompson Suite. Located on the top floor, this spacious one-bedroom accommodation offered breathtaking views of the Savannah River. The suite featured a king bed, separate living and dining areas, a wet bar, and even a pool table for entertaining. The suite even has a kitchenette which would be perfect for preparing snacks to share when hosting a small gathering. After a delightful evening, the rainfall shower and separate soaking tub provided a refreshing end to the day. The suite's elegant design and thoughtful amenities made for an unforgettable stay.
As mentioned, the bedroom featured a King size bed with stunning river views. The separate living room felt very residential providing the perfect home away from home. The living room has bar seating, an area to watch tv, a dining table, pool table and half bath.
The living room felt like a well-appointed apartment, giving us plenty of space to spread out, work from the dining room table, bar or sofa.
Partnering with Sferra Linens, Thompson Hotels ensures guests enjoy an unparalleled sleep experience. Renowned for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship, Sferra Linens elevate the comfort and luxury of Thompson Hotel rooms, ensuring guests indulge in a restful night's sleep cocooned in sumptuous softness.
The Thompson Suite featured a full bathroom attached to the bedroom and a separate half bath off the living room for guests. The primary bathroom featured a large soaking tub, large walk-in shower, separate toilet room and large single sink vanity.
Thompson Hotels showcase D.S. & Durga toiletries, providing guests with a premium aromatic experience. Crafted with high-quality ingredients and distinctive fragrances, each product transforms your daily routine into a luxurious indulgence, enhancing your stay with a touch of sophistication.
Food & Beverage
Savannah stands as a top-tier culinary hub, boasting classic Southern flavors infused with modern twists and fresh seafood sourced directly from Georgia's coast. Guests need not venture far to savor the city's most delectable cuisine. At Thompson Savannah, a diverse array of dining options awaits, from regional favorites and global fare at our unique hotel restaurants to expertly crafted cocktails and picturesque riverfront vistas at our rooftop bar. With something to please every palate, Thompson Savannah offers an unparalleled dining experience.
Since Savannah is such a culinary hub that translates into the hotel having four incredible food and beverage outlets.
Fleeting is the primary restaurant at Thompson Savannah, offering a culinary experience that celebrates local flavors and ingredients. With a focus on seasonal dishes and innovative techniques, Fleeting invites guests to indulge in a journey of taste and sophistication. Set against the backdrop of the scenic Savannah River, the restaurant provides a stylish and inviting ambiance, perfect for enjoying delicious meals with friends and family.
We dined at Fleeting our first night of our stay at their Chef's Counter and talk about a culinary delight. Our experience will go down as one to remember as each dish was so beautifully presented and full of amazing flavor.
Although their menu is constantly changing to feature fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients, it's worth mentioning some of our favorites from the menu.
Shares (appetizers)
beef tartare with stevedore sourdough
burrata
Mains
wood grilled ribeye
wild spinach rigatoni mezzi
Sides
green salad
fire roasted choy
bbq mushrooms
Thompson Hotels are known for having incredible restaurants and bars and the lobby bar at Thompson Savannah, Bar by Fleeting is no exception.
It's a relaxed yet sophisticated spot, perfect for enjoying pre-dinner cocktails or winding down with a nightcap. Sip on hand-crafted cocktails, explore our curated wine list, and indulge in a tempting snack menu featuring Fleeting favorites and savory shareables. Start your unforgettable evening at Bar by Fleeting, where every moment is infused with style and flavor.
Next we're headed to the top. Introducing Bar Julian, overlooking the Savannah River.
Bar Julian offers a captivating experience with its creative, Mediterranean-inspired menu. Indulge in elevated breakfast options, enticing bar snacks, and locally-inspired pizzas, perfectly complemented by hand-crafted cocktails and panoramic views. As the tallest rooftop bar in Savannah’s modern history, Bar Julian has quickly become a favored gathering spot for both locals and visitors alike, offering an unforgettable ambiance and culinary delights.
Breakfast on the rooftop was a highlight as it allowed us to have a leisurely morning while soaking in the magnificent river views and taking in all of Savannah from a birds-eye view.
And last but not least, one of the most important things we look for when traveling is a local coffee shop.
Stevedore Bakery, nestled on the ground floor just around the corner from the lobby entrance, beckons guests with its enticing aroma of freshly baked goods. Here, artisanal grains and ingredients take center stage, celebrating the flavors of the region with mouth-watering dishes crafted from locally sourced Southern farmers and growers. Partnering with local favorites like PERC Coffee, Stevedore Bakery has quickly become an iconic neighborhood staple, offering guests a delightful morning stop along the picturesque Savannah riverfront.
Amenities
The fitness center at Thompson Savannah offers a state-of-the-art facility designed to meet the needs of every guest's wellness journey. Whether guests prefer cardio machines for a heart-pumping session, strength training equipment for muscle building, or yoga mats for a calming stretch, the fitness center provides everything needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle while traveling. Or if you prefer to take your fitness outdoors, the hotel has courtesy hotel bikes or you can take off on a walk or run right from the hotel.
Enhancing your workout experience, they are proud to feature Peloton Bikes and hopefully soon a Peloton Row, thanks to Hyatt's recent partnership with Peloton.
The rooftop pool at Thompson Savannah offers a luxurious oasis with panoramic views of the scenic Savannah River. Guests can indulge in a refreshing swim while taking in the breathtaking surroundings or simply unwind on comfortable lounge chairs and soak up the sun. The poolside bar provides a variety of refreshing beverages and light snacks, ensuring guests stay refreshed and satisfied throughout their visit.
Or reserve a private cabana that offers shade an exclusivity. With its serene ambiance and stunning vistas, the rooftop pool at Thompson Savannah is the perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate during your stay.
While Thompson Savannah doesn't have a spa within the hotel walls, they recently partnered with Woodhouse Spa, which is located just across the street. At Woodhouse, you can indulge in exclusive treatments, such as the Sculpt facial and Calming Retreat massage. Before your appointment, explore their boutique stocked with self-care essentials. Enjoy a selection of warm teas or unwind with a signature Woodhouse Mimosa in their tranquil Quiet Room between services.
And last but not least, Thompson Savannah is the perfect home base for your Savannah Getaway. While the hotel is located in a newly developing area of Savannah that has plenty to offer, most people visit Savannah to experience River Street and the Historic District. You won't have any problem getting there as Thompson Savannah has a house-car service that will take you to your destination and you'll arrive in style in their Tesla Model X. Their house courtesy car is first-come-first-serve, but let us be the first to tell you we used it some to get around and it was quite convenient.
Interview with Hotel Management
During our stay, we had the pleasure of meeting with Keith Butz, the General Manager at Thompson Savannah. In our discussion, we explored everything about Thompson Hotels, delved into the hotel's culture, local partnerships, what makes Thompson Savannah unique, and its connection to the surrounding neighborhood.
Q: How does culture live here at Thompson Savannah?
A: Our dedication to inclusivity and celebration of diversity infuses every aspect of our daily operations. Whether we're interacting with guests or handling things internally, our main goal is to create an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to do their best. We achieve this by organizing various cultural events, offering diverse experiences, and always looking for ways to learn and grow together. It's all about building a tight-knit community where everyone belongs. And our dedication to culture shines through in initiatives like "Culture Lives Here," where we highlight individuals who are shaping today's cultural scene, spanning everything from art and music to food and beyond.
Q: What makes your hotel different than other hotels in Savannah?
A: Our commitment to the local community, coupled with our strong connection to local artists, exceptional food and beverage offerings across four distinctive bars and restaurants, and breathtaking city views, are attracting both locals and visitors from the surrounding areas.
Q: What sets the Thompson Hotel brand apart from other luxury hotel brands?
A: Well, there are three key factors: our culture, our dining and nightlife scene, and our curated touchpoints. Our dining and nightlife experiences are carefully crafted, providing guests with an immersive dive into local culture that sparks meaningful connections and conversations. But it's those special touchpoints that really make each Thompson a true part of its city and experience. For instance, we've teamed up with Service Brewing to create a custom welcome beer, East River Lager, that you can only get at Thompson Savannah. And then there's our Port City Passport, which showcases the best local partners and experiences throughout Savannah. It's all about those unique details that elevate the guest experience and connect them with the essence of a city.
Q: What makes the location of your hotel unique and what do you love about the location and neighborhood?
A: Our location at the meeting point of the Historic District and Eastern Wharf offers a distinctive blend of upscale sophistication and urban convenience. It stands out in Savannah as a rare spot where you can marvel at the ships passing by, enjoy panoramic views of the city from Bar Julian, experience outdoor green spaces along the river, and yet remain mere moments from the lively heart of downtown Savannah.
Q: Can you share any upcoming collaborations or partnerships that will enhance the guest experience at your hotel?
A: We have a rotating art gallery in our lobby celebrating creators who have meaningful impacts on culture through their work that we curate through Laney Contemporary. We just launched our latest exhibit from local, multi-disciplinary artist, Katherine Sandoz, which we will be celebrating her work this month. We also introduced a dynamic, chef-driven pop-up series, collaborating with local culinary talent and celebrating our regional bounty. We are thrilled to welcome back Chef Chris “Chino” Hathcock with an exciting new pop up concept this July after his wildly successful Shinpaku in February. We are also committed to supporting our community through partnerships with nonprofit organizations, engaging in donation drives, volunteer efforts, and our monthly "Giving Tuesday" events at Bar Julian.
Overall Impression
During our stay at Thompson Savannah, we reveled in upscale sophistication along the picturesque Savannah River. From our chic, midcentury modern accommodations, we woke up to stunning views and indulged in a restful night's sleep enveloped in sumptuous softness from the Sferra linens. Venturing to Bar by Fleeting, the lobby bar, we enjoyed pre-dinner cocktails and end-of-evening nightcaps, complemented by a thoughtful snack menu featuring Fleeting favorites. For a culinary adventure, we experienced Fleeting, featuring fresh, local and seasonal ingredients making the best meal. Stevedore Bakery provided the perfect morning stop, offering mouth-watering dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. And to unwind, we ascended to the rooftop pool, where we indulged in a refreshing swim and soaked up the sun while taking in the breathtaking surroundings. Throughout our stay, Thompson Savannah provided a perfect blend of Southern hospitality and contemporary elegance, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Extra Benefits
And don’t forget, when you book Thompson Savannah with Live Luxe Travel Co., you’ll receive complimentary Hyatt Privé benefits like a room upgrade, food & beverage credit, and more.