Perry Lane vs. Alida

Question

After EXTENSIVE research (save me!), I THINK we have narrowed our decision down to The Perry Lane and The Alida. Both seem very similar similar in terms of amenities. I gather than one is further into the historic district and the other closer to the river. Not quite sure which location we prefer, but would love any opinions that might make us lean toward either hotel. Thank you!

Answer

Great choices — both The Perry Lane and The Alida are excellent Savannah hotels, but they offer different experiences depending on what you want from location, vibe, and hotel amenities. Below I break down the differences so you can lean toward the one that best fits your trip.

Short summary (quick decision help)

If you want a boutique, luxury-feel hotel, an exclusive rooftop pool, and a quieter, more “in the middle of the historic squares” location → lean Perry Lane.
If you prefer being right by the river, immediate access to River Street/City Market/Plant Riverside and a lively rooftop scene (especially in season) → lean The Alida.

Location & walkability

Perry Lane sits in the heart of the historic district on Perry/Bull Street — an easy, picturesque walk to the squares, boutique shops, SCAD areas and Forsyth Park. It feels like you’re in the center of the residential/historic core. The Alida sits closer to the river (Williamson/Bay Street area) with immediate access to River Street, City Market, and Plant Riverside — ideal if you want riverfront dining and nightlife right outside the door. If your priority is strolling the squares and breakfast near Forsyth Park, Perry Lane wins; for sunsets over the river and a short walk to riverfront restaurants and music venues, The Alida wins.

Vibe & design

Perry Lane: Upscale, design-forward Luxury Collection property; polished interiors, a somewhat boutique-luxury ambiance and a rooftop conservatory/bar (Peregrin) plus a guest-only rooftop pool that feels exclusive. Great if you want a refined, slightly quieter stay.
The Alida: Modern, slightly more playful Tribute Portfolio / Marriott boutique vibe with strong river-themed design touches; its rooftop programming (seasonal experiences like the Alpine Village/yurts in winter) makes it feel lively and social. The Alida leans more toward riverfront energy and on-site events.

Amenities that matter

Perry Lane — Notable rooftop pool (hotel-guest access only), Peregrin rooftop bar, on-site Emporium restaurant and wine market, bikes for exploring, library/game room. Rooftop pool is a rare luxury in the Historic District.
The Alida — Rooftop bar and seasonal rooftop experiences (yurts/Alpine Village in winter), restaurants and strong river views; good for people who want to be steps from riverfront restaurants and nightlife.

Noise & atmosphere at night

Perry Lane’s spot amid the residential squares typically makes it a touch quieter at night than hotels literally on the river. The Alida’s riverfront location means you’ll be closer to riverside bars, live music and the flow of tourists — lively and fun, but potentially noisier on summer or event nights. Choose Perry Lane if quiet matters; choose The Alida if being in the middle of the riverfront action matters.

Parking & extra costs

Both hotels use valet and downtown overnight valet fees are common; plan on a nightly valet charge (Perry Lane posts valet rates in the $50–$60 range and The Alida typically shows valet at similar rates). If parking cost matters, factor that into the total.

Service & reliability

Both are professionally managed (Perry Lane is Marriott’s Luxury Collection; The Alida is a Tribute Portfolio/Marriott property), and most guests report solid service. Perry Lane markets a slightly more curated, service-forward luxury experience; Alida leans into friendly boutique service with strong on-site activation. (As with any hotel, read recent reviews for the exact room type you’re considering.)

Who each hotel is best for — quick profiles

Perry Lane: Couples or travelers who want boutique luxury, a serene rooftop pool, easy access to squares and upscale dining, and a slightly quieter historic-district feel.
The Alida: Guests who want riverfront convenience (River Street, City Market, Plant Riverside), a lively rooftop experience (especially during seasonal events), and being steps from riverside restaurants and nightlife.

Recommendation approach

If you can’t decide, pick by what you’ll spend most time doing: historic-squares, parks, and boutique shopping → Perry Lane; riverfront dining, sunset views and convenient River Street access → The Alida. Both are excellent — you’ll have a great stay either way; it just comes down to river vs. squares and rooftop-pool exclusivity vs. immediate riverfront energy.