Gay Savannah – Best Hotels, Gay Bars & Clubs, LGBTQ+ Events and More in 2024!

Overview

Savannah is one of the most romantic and captivating cities in the South, often called the "Hostess City." It’s a place where the past meets the present, where you can enjoy a slow-paced walk through historic squares before hitting up a lively drag show. This city embraces its eccentric side and has become a beloved destination for gay travelers looking for a good time and endless intrigue. Ready to discover all the best this city has to offer? Let’s dive in!

Where to Stay

When it comes to accommodation, Savannah offers a variety of stunning options from industrial chic to historic charm.

JW Marriott Plant Riverside – For anyone wanting to stay in the heart of Savannah's action, the JW Marriott Plant Riverside is a top choice. This luxurious hotel is located right on the riverfront, with spectacular views and unique, industrial-chic decor that pays homage to Savannah's rich history. We love the historical details in the former power plant section of the hotel.


Rooms are modern and spacious, and the hotel is packed with amenities, including the Compass Pool Lounge, spa, fitness center, and countless restaurants, bars and shops. Champagne is offered on arrival, and the massive chrome-dipped dinosaur in the lobby alone is worth a visit.

Mercer-Williams House – For a bit of local history, make sure to swing by the Mercer-Williams House, the site of the infamous events in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The mansion offers tours where you can learn about the home’s storied past and its connection to 'the book.'


Segway Tour – Looking to cover more ground without the sweat? Hop on a Segway tour and glide through Savannah’s historic squares and landmarks. It’s an exciting way to take in the sights while your guide shares fascinating stories about the city’s history and culture.

River Street – No visit to Savannah is complete without a stroll along River Street. This historic cobblestone street stretches along the Savannah River and is lined with unique shops, lively bars, and delicious eateries. You can watch ships pass by, grab a cocktail from a local pub (hello, open container laws!), and soak in the atmosphere. Be sure to check out the many art galleries and boutique shops, or take a riverboat cruise for a scenic view of the city skyline. It's a bustling spot, especially in the evenings when the bars and restaurants come alive.


Ghost Pub Crawl – If you love spooky adventures, Savannah’s ghost tours are the best in the South. Savannah is known as one of the most haunted cities in America, so a haunted pub crawl is both scary and a great way to explore the local nightlife. You’ll get to sip on cocktails while learning about the city’s ghostly tales and infamous residents. It’s a fun and eerie way to see Savannah’s historic bars and hidden corners.

Bonaventure Cemetery – stories of Savannah’s past residents. It’s the perfect place to soak in the city’s mysterious, romantic vibe. For the best experience, we recommend this small group walking tour with a historian guide. Transportation is also included from your downtown hotel!

Where to Eat and Drink

After dozens of trips to visit family who love to showcase the city's best restaurants, cocktail bars, and rooftop lounges, here are our favorites!


Collins Quarter – Start your day at Collins Quarter, an Australian-inspired café known for its amazing coffee and all-day brunch. Their smashed avocado toast and cold brew are a must-try.


Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room – For a taste of classic Southern cuisine, you have to visit Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room. It’s an experience you won't forget—think family-style dining with a spread of fried chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese, and more. Get there early because the line forms fast, but trust us, it’s worth the wait.


The Olde Pink House – Housed in an 18th-century mansion with a distinctive pink facade, The Olde Pink House offers a unique blend of elegant dining and rich history. The menu features dishes that highlight the best of regional flavors, with specialties like crispy scored flounder, shrimp and grits, and succulent pork tenderloin. Enjoy your meal in one of its many beautifully decorated rooms, or head down to the cozy tavern for a more intimate experience. And don't miss their famous Pink Lady cocktail—a Savannah staple!


Fleeting – For a more modern dining experience, head to Fleeting at the Thompson Hotel. This chic restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and their creative seasonal menu is always a hit. The atmosphere is sleek yet welcoming—ideal for a date night or special celebration. We recently celebrated my dad’s 75th birthday here.


Leopold's Ice Cream – Step back in time at Leopold's Ice Cream, a beloved Savannah institution that has been scooping up delicious, hand-crafted treats since 1919. With its retro decor, marble soda fountain, and classic flavors like Tutti Frutti and butter pecan, Leopold's serves up a slice of nostalgia alongside its iconic sundaes, floats, and malts. It’s the perfect spot for a sweet break, whether you're cooling off on a hot day or indulging your dessert cravings after dinner. Just be prepared to wait in line—this spot is a favorite for locals and visitors alike!

Best Gay Bars & Clubs

Now, let’s dive into Savannah’s small but mighty gay nightlife scene! There’s a great mix of bars where you can enjoy everything from laid-back cocktails to dancing well into the night. While Club One is officially the city's only gay and club, you'll find many LGBTQ+ patrons at our favorite spots!


Club One – Savannah’s most famous gay bar and nightclub known for its fabulous drag shows. Club One is a multi-level venue, so whether you want to dance, watch a show, or just have a drink, there’s a space for you. This is also where The Lady Chablis, of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil fame, performed for years, and we used to come here regularly to see her.


Savoy Society – For a more relaxed vibe, this swanky cocktail bar is a great spot to start your night. While not exclusively a gay bar, Savoy Society is very popular with the LGBTQ+ community and serves some of the best cocktails in the city in a cozy, stylish setting.


Peregrin – Our hands down favorite of Savannah's many incredible rooftop bars. Peregrin is located at Perry Lane Hotel and offers stunning panoramic views of Savannah's historic skyline. This chic spot is perfect for sipping cocktails under the stars or enjoying a refreshing spritz by the fire pits. Whether you’re stopping by for sunset drinks or a late-night gathering, it’s a sophisticated and memorable place to unwind.


Artillery – If you’re into craft cocktails in a swanky setting, Artillery on Bull Street is a must-visit. Located in a brilliantly restored armory, this upscale spot is known for its expertly mixed drinks, elegant decor, and live music.


Alley Cat Lounge – For a hidden gem, Alley Cat Lounge is a speakeasy-style bar with an extensive drink menu. The bartenders are masters of their craft, so don’t be afraid to ask for a custom creation. We’re obsessed with the imaginative cocktails and diversity of people you’ll find here–everyone from singles to couples, both straight and gay, to groups of SCAD students. The Savannah College of Art and Design, or SCAD as it’s known locally, is a huge reason for the city’s renaissance as a world class travel destination.

When to Go

For the best time to visit Savannah, we recommend spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the city comes alive with festivals and events.


Savannah Pride – One of the biggest LGBTQ+ events is Savannah Pride, which takes place every October in Forsyth Park. It’s a weekend-long celebration with live music, drag performances, and local vendors.


In addition to nightly events at Club One, don’t miss the annual drag T-dance on Saturday at Congress Street Social Club.


St. Patrick's Day – If you’re in town during March, we also love the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, including many citywide events. Savannah hosts one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the U.S.

How to Get Here

Savannah is served by the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (airport code: SAV), which is just a 20-minute drive from downtown. You can easily catch a cab, rideshare, or even the CAT bus to get to your hotel. Once you’re in the city, walking is the best way to explore, but there are also plenty of bike rentals and trolleys available for sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions & Travel Tips

What's Savannah's Open Container Law?

One of the best things about Savannah is its open container law, which allows you to walk around the Historic District with a to-go cup of your favorite drink. Just make sure it’s in a plastic cup—glass containers aren’t allowed.

Is Savannah LGBTQ+ friendly?

Absolutely! Savannah has a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene with plenty of gay bars, clubs, and welcoming spaces throughout the city. Events like Savannah Pride further showcase the city’s inclusive atmosphere.


Do I need a car to get around?

While a car is helpful for visiting nearby attractions like the beach at Tybee Island, you don’t need one to explore the Historic District. Most of the city’s main sights, restaurants, and nightlife spots are within walking distance.

What should I pack for Savannah?

Pack for warm weather, especially if you’re visiting in summer. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and don’t forget a stylish outfit for a night out at one of the city’s fantastic bars or clubs.


Why do locals call it ‘The Book’?

In the South, "the book" usually means the Bible, but not in Savannah. Here, "the book" refers to Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt. It’s a must-read before you visit to get a sense of the city’s eccentric charm. And fun fact, the actual "Garden of Good and Evil" is in Beaufort, South Carolina—Trai's hometown!

Ready for Your Savannah Getaway?

With its mix of history, charm, and LGBTQ+ friendliness, Savannah is the perfect destination for your next Southern adventure. From its inviting gay nightlife to its stunning riverfront views, this city has something for everyone.