Fodor's Expert Review Hilton Savannah Desoto

Name: Hilton Savannah Desoto
Address: 15 E. Liberty St., Savannah, Georgia, 31401, United States
Telephone: 912-232–9000;800-426–8483
Price range: $$

15 E. Liberty St., Savannah, Georgia, 31401, United States See on Map

Clea Hernandez

Expect tasteful contemporary furnishings at this 15-story property with a rooftop pool, world-class restaurant and pub, and a downtown location in the heart of a thriving shopping and dining neighborhood. Rooms are simply furnished but have all the mainstays of modernity. For the best view of the city's historic skyline, ask for a room on the 13th floor. A large property, there is ample meeting space for large conventions.

room

The views take the spotlight in the decor schema: No matter which side of the hotel you stay on, there is something interesting to look at (you get a better vantage point on higher floors, obviously). Inside the room, fixtures and furnishings are minimal and modern to complement the ornate majesty of the scenery outside.

YOU SHOULD KNOW The elevator can be noisy if staying right next door. Ask to be situated away from it.

Photo: Double Skyline View

Photo: Corner King Balcony with view of the Savannah Bridge

Photo: Pool View Room with Patio

Photo: Double Bed Bathroom with Tub

bathroom

Textured wallpaper and glossy tiles lend a luxurious touch to the recently remodeled bathrooms.

Photo: Double Bed Bathroom with Tub

lobby

From the tasty lattes in the cute coffee shop to the approachable, astute concierge, the Desoto lobby is a village of sophisticated comforts. Don't miss the champagne and cookie piano concerts in the lobby lounge area.

Photo: Proof & Provision Bourbon Wall

Photo: Lounge

Photo: Grand Chandeliers

Photo: Lit wading and swimming pool

pool

Besides the incredible 1540 Room restaurant, the pool is another perk that lifts the Desoto just over the heads of other local hotels in its class. Lounge chairs surround a seating rotunda immersed in the cool shallow end, perfect for sipping a cocktail from the pool bar.

Photo: Lit wading and swimming pool

dining

The 1540 Room is one of Savannah's outstanding culinary playgrounds. Its locally sourced, the pan-Mediterranean menu offers dishes that are a rarity in Savannah, and even more rarely done so exquisitely.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Still riding the high of its locally lauded chef and inventive menu, the 1540 Room can be pretty packed on the weekends. Ask the concierge for reservations when you check in or make one beforehand at OpenTable.com.

Photo: Proof & Provision Patio Dining

Photo: Communal Seating in Proof & Provision

Photo: Buffalo Bayou Coffee Shop and Gourmet To-Go

Photo: Proof & Provision Lunch

drinking

Edgar's Proof & Provision Bourbon Bar has an impressive selection of — you guessed it — bourbons and whiskeys. This is a trendy lounge that you could easily while away the hours in.

Photo: Proof & Provision Lunch

LOCATION

Getting Around

While staying here, visitors are deep in the heart of the Downtown Historic District, so it's most enjoyable to park the car for as long as possible and walk, bike, pedicab, or take a trolley tour.

Restaurants

Husk Savannah (6-minute) carries on the palate-pleasing Southern traditions of its famous sister restaurant in Charleston, to great local acclaim. You certainly won't regret dining here if you can get a reservation. Brunch at Collin's Quarter (6-minute walk) will set you up with the proper mix of incredible food, gorgeous decor, cocktails and gourmet coffee drinks for a successful day on the town.

Bars

Artillery (1-minute walk) is an uber-chic mixological heaven with lavish decor and cocktails. If you like a good Old Fashioned, you'll love "the Doc," their take on the classic. For the other end of the spectrum, head over to the Original Pinkie Masters (2-minute walk) for a fun dive bar experience steeped in lore. Ask the bartender to tell you the story about Jimmy Carter leaping onto the bar to announce his run for the presidency.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Really, what's not to like? The hotel accommodations are lovely, the bourbon bar is terrific, and the 1540 Room Restaurant is absolutely top notch. But the pieces de resistance have to be the stunning views of the historic district and the rooftop pool oasis.