Savannah - Magnolia Place Inn
 

Has anyone ever stayed at the Magnolia Place Inn in Savannah? I've read several threads on this city and seen several B&Bs recommended, but not a word about Magnolia Place. I'm starting to second-guess my choice.

I did see one of your posts on this, but sort of hate to reply as I haven't stayed there, and who knows, the advantages might outweigh the disadvantages. <BR><BR>I used to live in Savannah (moved 4 1/2 yrs ago) and know the location of this Inn. The park it's across the street from is beautiful, and although the inn looks lovely from the outside, I'm not too keen on the location for a couple of reasons. First it's on Whitaker St, which is a very busy north-south commuting route for the suburbs just south of town. It's only two lanes, both going south, but it is steady traffic. If you'll be there on the weekend, this isn't as much of a factor. <BR><BR>Secondly, and probably most importantly, although that area is fine in the day time, I really wouldn't do much walking around there in the evening--neither in the park nor in the immediate vicinity of the inn. It's fine in the day, but I made certain I was out of that area by night. (I ran in that park) The good boundaries of the historic district narrow down as you get further from the river and in that particular area, I wouldn't venture much more than a block or so west from that, and south you want to go no further than Park, which is the street bounding the south side of Forsyth Park.<BR><BR>We lived in the historic district, and in truth, it's not a good idea to stroll around after dark outside of the busy areas like City Market, Bay St, or River St. If you do...just be real alert and don't carry a purse. It's not terribly dangerous--it's not a New Orleans, but it has its share of crime. Those areas are all fine in the day, but do be careful after dark.<BR><BR>Don't know what sort of rate you are getting, but you might also look into Foley House. Although only about 3 sqaures north up Bull St, it's surrounded by a better area. Still, as I said, the Inn really looks lovely from the outside, so I'm hesitant about saying "don't do it". If you do stay there, I hope you'll do a trip report and let us know what you thought!

I have friends that live about 4 blocks from Magnolia Place, probably towards the so called "good boundries". I have visited the area about 12 times the past 5 years so I can't say what it was like 4 1/2 years ago. I can say in all of my visits the thought of feeling threatened or unsafe has never entered my mind, but no matter where your at always be alert and know what's going on around you. Magnolia Place sits right across from Forsyth Park, the most beautiful park in Savannah. I stayed at a sister property of Magnolia Place on Tybee Island and it was fabulous, I had to go to Mag Place to pick up the keys and although I did not go into any bedrooms the common areas and dining facilities were very ornate and lavish, old too, Sherman did'nt get a chance to burn this one.

Foley House was completely booked. Also checked Ballastone, which had a couple rooms available, but at a steeper price. Is Ballastone in a better location? Might be worth it. <BR><BR>Anyway, thanks for the advice. I didn't even think about the safety of the city because it seems to be such a quaint southern-charm type of place. But I will take notice of your caution flag for any night time strolls.

Ballastone has a great reputation, on a par with Foley House. Foley House would have been my first choice though...it has the best location on Chippewa Square. Another B&B to look into is the Gastonian or Kehoe House, although I believe you'll find those more expensive yet. Just moving a bit north of Forsyth improves your neighborhood as the redeveloped area widens considerably north of the park.<BR><BR>Stay alert after dark anywhere in the historic district away from the beaten paths of River St and City Market. We still go back to visit and it has not changed. It seems so quiet and peaceful in the historic district that to anyone who doesn't live there, it's deceptively safe appearing. The problems stem from the housing projects located on both the east and west boundaries of the historic district and south of the district (south of Park) is one of the most troublesome slums of the city. During the daytime you are fine anywhere in the historic district, but after dark, use your head about where you go.

OliveOyl... You've been a fantastic help! In fact, I just changed my reservation to Ballastone. (Gastonian was also booked.) Seemed like there were many recommendations for Ballastone on this board, and I value personal experience. Sure, it cost me an extra $100 per night, but it's our anniversary.<BR><BR>Last question: Do you recommend a car? I've seen several recommendations to visit Bonaventure Cemetary, so we'll probably do that. And we're eating at Elizabeths one night, undecided on the other night. Will probably spend most of our time touring the historic district, and we're a pretty young couple. Thanks again! Really helps to talk to a past resident.