Where to stay outside Historic District

Question

We would love to stay in the Historic District but rates are pushing $400 a night (with fees and taxes) for the dates we will be in town next April. That's a stretch for some when staying a few days. If one was to stay outside the Historic District but commute in for the day, what part of town would you recommend that is safe and the easiest to commute? Is there an equivalent to what Mt. Pleasant is for Charleston in this regard? Thank you.

Answer

If staying in Savannah’s Historic District is beyond budget, there are several neighborhoods outside the district that are safe, convenient, and offer easy access to downtown. While Savannah doesn’t have a perfect equivalent to Charleston’s Mt. Pleasant, a few areas are popular with visitors seeking a quieter or more affordable base.

Recommended areas outside the Historic District:

Ardsley Park/Chatham Crescent: Located just a few minutes’ drive from the Historic District, this residential neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, charming early-20th-century homes, and safe environment. It’s a quiet area with a suburban feel while still being very accessible to downtown.
Midtown Savannah (near Oglethorpe Mall): This area is a 10–15 minute drive to the Historic District. You’ll find chain hotels, restaurants, and grocery stores, making it convenient for families. It’s generally safe, and traffic to downtown is manageable if you avoid peak commute hours.
Southside Savannah: Stretching along Montgomery Cross Road and surrounding areas, Southside offers budget-friendly hotels and easy access to the Southside Connector or Abercorn Street into downtown. It’s practical if you have a car and don’t mind a 10–15 minute commute.
Wilmington Island/Whitemarsh Island: Slightly farther out (15–20 minutes to downtown), these barrier island communities are safe, scenic, and near beaches. This area works well if you want a mix of suburban living and easy access to the coast.

Tips for commuting to the Historic District:

Driving: Most areas outside the Historic District allow for a 5–20 minute drive into downtown, depending on traffic. Parking in the district can be pricey, so plan accordingly—look for street parking or garages.
Public Transport: Chatham Area Transit (CAT) buses run through several neighborhoods, but service may be limited compared with driving.
Rideshares: Uber and Lyft are widely available and can be convenient if you want to avoid parking hassles in the Historic District.

In summary, for safe, convenient stays outside the Historic District, Ardsley Park and Chatham Crescent are the top recommendations for charm and proximity. Midtown and Southside are practical and budget-friendly, and Wilmington/Whitemarsh Islands offer a quieter, more scenic alternative if you don’t mind a slightly longer commute.

Where to stay outside Historic District

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