Gay Savannah: Best Gay Hotels, Bars & Nightlife (2026)

Where to Stay

Savannah has no shortage of gorgeous hotels, but these are our top picks for LGBTQ+ travelers, depending on your travel style — from boutique elegance to riverfront luxury.

Municipal Grand Savannah – Best Boutique Luxury Stay

⭐ Best for: Stylish design lovers & intimate luxury
📍 Location: Historic District (Abercorn Street)

Why We Love It:

Municipal Grand Savannah feels like a hidden gem — sophisticated, design-forward, and refreshingly intimate. It’s perfect if you want luxury without the mega-hotel energy. Rooms are polished and contemporary, while the location places you right in the heart of downtown without feeling touristy.

This is an ideal base if you love exploring on foot and returning to something calm, beautiful, and well-designed at night.

JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside – Best Riverfront Experience

⭐ Best for: Waterfront views, nightlife & resort-style amenities
📍 Location: River Street

Why We Love It:

The JW Marriott Plant Riverside is Savannah’s most visually striking hotel — and an experience in itself. The former power plant section is especially stunning, with soaring ceilings, original machinery, and dramatic lighting. River views, rooftop spaces, and lively nightlife make this ideal if you want to stay where the energy is.

Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth visiting for drinks.

Hotel Bardo Savannah – Best Design-Forward Luxury

⭐ Best for: Modern luxury, spa lovers & relaxed elegance
📍 Location: By Forsyth Park

Why We Love It:

Hotel Bardo feels like a chic Mediterranean escape dropped into Savannah. It’s quieter and more refined than riverfront properties, making it ideal for travelers who prioritize wellness, design, and relaxation while still being close to the action.

Perry Lane Hotel – Best Boutique Social Hub

⭐ Best for: Rooftop cocktails & polished Southern glamour
📍 Location: Historic District (East Perry Street)

Why We Love It:

Perry Lane consistently delivers. The energy, the service, the rooftop — it all works. Peregrin is hands-down one of Savannah’s best sunset cocktail spots and a popular gathering place for LGBTQ+ travelers. We also love their signature restaurant on the ground level with yet another bar and live entertainment.

Things to Do

Savannah is best explored slowly. Walking is part of the experience — and nearly every turn leads to something beautiful, historic, or a little mysterious.

Forsyth Park

Home to Savannah’s iconic fountain and the annual Pride Festival, Forsyth Park is perfect for morning strolls, picnics, or people-watching.

Forsyth Park is Savannah’s green heart and one of the most iconic spots in the city. The wide lawns and tree-lined paths are perfect for a picnic, a casual stroll, or simply lounging under the Spanish moss. The famous Forsyth Fountain is a must-see (and must-photograph), and the park also hosts Savannah Pride each year — making it both a cultural and LGBTQ+ landmark.

Explore the Historic District

Savannah’s Historic District is a living museum, made up of preserved squares, cobblestone streets, elegant townhomes, and grand mansions. This is where Savannah’s charm really shines. Take your time strolling through the squares, popping into museums, and soaking up the distinctly Southern atmosphere that feels cinematic at every corner.

Prohibition Museum

One of our favorite indoor experiences is the Prohibition Museum. Step back into the Roaring Twenties and learn about bootlegging, speakeasies, flappers, and the underground culture that thrived during Prohibition. Don’t leave without stopping at the speakeasy-style bar inside for a classic cocktail — it’s immersive, educational, and genuinely fun.

Mercer-Williams House

Fans of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil will instantly recognize the Mercer-Williams House, one of Savannah’s most talked-about landmarks. Guided tours explore the mansion’s history and its connection to the infamous events that inspired “the book.”

If you haven’t read it yet, we highly recommend picking it up before your trip — it adds an extra layer of intrigue to nearly every place you’ll visit in Savannah.

Segway Tour (Cover More Ground)

If you want to see more of Savannah without tiring out your feet, a guided Segway tour is a surprisingly great option. You’ll glide through historic squares and past key landmarks while your guide shares stories, history, and local lore along the way. It’s efficient, fun, and perfect for first-time visitors.

River Street

A stroll along River Street is essential. This historic waterfront strip runs along the Savannah River and is packed with shops, galleries, bars, and restaurants. Thanks to Savannah’s open-container laws, you can sip a cocktail as you wander — just make sure it’s in a plastic cup. Evenings here are especially lively as the riverfront lights up and ships glide past.

Ghost Walking Tour

Savannah is widely considered one of the most haunted cities in America, and ghost tours are part of the local culture. It’s equal parts spooky, fun, and uniquely Savannah — and a great way to experience this historic city with a twist.

Bonaventure Cemetery

For something quieter but equally atmospheric, Bonaventure Cemetery offers one of the most hauntingly beautiful experiences in the South. Think moss-covered statues, winding paths, and stories from Savannah’s past. We recommend a small-group walking tour with a historian guide — transportation from downtown is included, making this an easy half-day excursion.

Where to Eat and Drink

Savannah punches far above its weight when it comes to food, combining classic Southern comfort, refined Lowcountry cuisine, and a surprising number of polished, design-forward dining rooms. From long, indulgent brunches to romantic historic dining and nostalgic dessert stops, these are the places we return to again and again — and confidently recommend to LGBTQ+ travelers.

The Collins Quarter — Best Brunch & Daytime Dining

⭐ Best for: Brunch, coffee & people-watching
📍 Location: Historic District (Bull Street + Forsyth Park)

An Australian-inspired café that feels tailor-made for Savannah’s relaxed, social pace, The Collins Quarter is a favorite for slow mornings and lingering afternoons. Known for excellent espresso drinks, creative brunch plates, and a buzzy-but-not-chaotic atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where one coffee easily turns into two — followed by lunch.

The sidewalk seating is prime for people-watching, and the menu balances lighter dishes with indulgent classics, making it ideal whether you’re easing into the day or refueling between sightseeing stops.

Mrs. Wilkes' Dining Room — Best Classic Southern Experience

⭐ Best for: Traditional Southern comfort food
📍 Location: Historic District (West Jones Street)

If you want the most authentic Southern dining experience in Savannah, this is it. Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room serves family-style meals where strangers become tablemates and platters of fried chicken, mac and cheese, collard greens, cornbread, and more are passed around generously.

There’s no reservation system — and the lines can be long — but that’s part of the charm. Go early, arrive hungry, and settle in. It’s nostalgic, communal, and deeply Savannah.

The Olde Pink House — Best Romantic Fine Dining

⭐ Best for: Date nights & special occasions
📍 Location: Historic District (Abercorn Street)

Housed in an elegant 18th-century mansion, The Olde Pink House is one of Savannah’s most iconic dining experiences. The atmosphere is romantic, candlelit, and unmistakably Southern, while the menu highlights regional classics elevated with refined technique.

Expect beautifully plated dishes, excellent service, and a sense that you’re dining inside Savannah’s history. It’s a popular choice for anniversaries, celebrations, and travelers wanting a quintessential “Savannah” night out — reservations are strongly recommended.

Fleeting — Best Modern Southern Cuisine

⭐ Best for: Upscale dining with a contemporary edge
📍 Location: Inside Thompson Savannah

Located within Thompson Savannah, Fleeting delivers polished, modern Southern cooking with a seasonal focus and serious attention to detail. The dining room feels sleek yet warm, making it ideal for date nights or refined group dinners.

The menu changes with the seasons, highlighting local ingredients, while the cocktails are equally thoughtful. It’s an excellent counterpoint to Savannah’s historic dining rooms — modern, confident, and stylish without being stiff.

Leopold's Ice Cream — Best Sweet Treat (A Must-Do)

⭐ Best for: Dessert & nostalgic Savannah vibes
📍 Location: Historic District (Broughton Street)

No Savannah trip feels complete without a stop at Leopold’s Ice Cream. Open since 1919, this old-school ice cream parlor serves classic flavors like Tutti Frutti, butter pecan, and chocolate chewies & cream in a charming, retro setting.

Yes, there’s often a line — and yes, it’s absolutely worth it. It’s the perfect way to cool off after dinner, cap a long walking day, or simply indulge your sweet tooth while soaking up a little Savannah nostalgia.

Best Gay Bars & Clubs

Savannah’s gay nightlife is small but mighty — more about personality, drag talent, cocktails, and atmosphere than sprawling club districts. Everything is close together, easy to navigate, and refreshingly social, making it simple to mix bar-hopping with long conversations, rooftop views, and late-night fun.

Club One — Best Drag Shows & Late-Night Energy

⭐ Best for: Drag, dancing & classic gay nightlife
📍 Location: Historic District (Jefferson Street)

The undeniable heart of Savannah’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, Club One is where the city comes to dance, celebrate, and be entertained. This multi-level gay club is best known for its legendary drag shows — including performances once headlined by The Lady Chablis of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil fame.

Expect packed weekends, high-energy crowds, rotating DJs, and show-stopping queens. Whether you’re visiting for a single night or staying all weekend, Club One is an essential stop — and often where the night ends.

Congress Street Social Club — Best Chill Hangout & Patio Bar

⭐ Best for: Daytime drinks, laid-back evenings & Pride drag shows
📍 Location: Historic District (Congress Street)

Despite the tongue-in-cheek “We’re not NOT a gay bar” tees worn by staff, Congress Street Social Club has long been a beloved LGBTQ+ hangout in Savannah. This is not a dance club or late-night party spot — instead, it’s where you come to relax, socialize, and linger.

The large outdoor patio is the main draw, perfect for afternoon drinks that stretch into easygoing evenings. Inside, you’ll find a cozy bar, a pool table, rainbow flags, and a mixed but proudly queer-friendly crowd. During Savannah Pride, the patio often hosts drag shows, cementing its place as an essential LGBTQ+ gathering space in the city.

Savoy Society — Best Cocktail Bar to Start the Night

⭐ Best for: Crafted cocktails & a stylish crowd
📍 Location: Historic District (East Liberty Street)

Elegant, intimate, and effortlessly welcoming, Savoy Society is a favorite among Savannah’s LGBTQ+ locals. The mood here is refined but not pretentious, making it ideal for pre-dinner drinks, date nights, or easing into an evening out.

The cocktail menu is excellent, the crowd is diverse and stylish, and the vibe leans conversation-forward — a perfect contrast to louder late-night venues.

Artillery — Best Craft Cocktails & Candlelit Vibes

⭐ Best for: Elevated cocktails, date nights & classic Savannah ambiance
📍 Location: Historic District (Bull Street)

Artillery is hands-down one of our favorite cocktail bars in Savannah — and a must on every trip. Housed in a beautifully restored armory, this candlelit bar delivers exquisite drinks, dramatic architecture, and a sultry, sophisticated atmosphere that feels timeless.

While not a dedicated gay bar, Artillery is extremely popular with the LGBTQ+ community thanks to its welcoming vibe, polished service, and expertly crafted cocktails. It’s ideal for pre-dinner drinks, a romantic nightcap, or a stylish pause between sightseeing and nightlife. If you love atmosphere as much as what’s in your glass, don’t skip this one.

Alley Cat Lounge — Best Late-Night Speakeasy Vibes

⭐ Best for: Craft cocktails & an artsy mixed crowd
📍 Location: Historic District (West Broughton Lane)

Tucked away and delightfully moody, Alley Cat Lounge is one of Savannah’s most beloved hidden gems. The speakeasy-style space feels intimate and creative, with bartenders who take cocktail craft seriously and aren’t afraid to surprise you.

The crowd is beautifully mixed — locals, visitors, LGBTQ+ travelers, and plenty of SCAD students — making it one of the city’s most interesting social spaces. It’s perfect for late-night drinks when you want conversation, creativity, and a little intrigue.

When to Go

Savannah is a city meant to be experienced at a slower pace — strolling shaded squares, lingering over cocktails, and letting history and atmosphere do the heavy lifting. While Savannah is welcoming year-round, the season you choose will shape how the city feels, especially when it comes to weather, crowds, festivals, and outdoor exploring.

Spring (March–May): Best Overall
Spring is hands-down one of the best times to visit Savannah. The weather is warm but comfortable, azaleas and wisteria bloom across the historic squares, and the city feels alive without being overwhelming. It’s ideal for walking tours, rooftop drinks, riverfront strolls, and patio dining — all before the intense summer heat arrives.

March also brings major energy to the city thanks to St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, while April blends art, culture, and Pride-friendly crowds. This is our top recommendation for first-time visitors.

Summer (June–August): Hot, Humid & Lively
Summer in Savannah is hot, humid, and undeniably energetic. Afternoon temperatures can be intense, but longer days mean late nights on patios, rooftop bars, and lively streets after sunset. This is when the city’s nightlife and cocktail culture really shine.

Expect higher hotel prices and more tourists — but if you don’t mind the heat and plan indoor breaks or evening-focused activities, summer can still be a fun time to visit.

Fall (September–November): Sweet Spot with Pride Energy
Fall is another excellent time to experience Savannah. Temperatures cool slightly, crowds thin out, and the city settles into a relaxed but still social rhythm. It’s perfect for walking the Historic District, ghost tours, cemetery visits, and open-air dining.

October is especially popular thanks to Savannah Pride, making fall a great choice for LGBTQ+ travelers who want both pleasant weather and community-driven events.

Winter (December–February): Cozy & Affordable
Winter is Savannah’s quiet season. While it’s too cool for pools and rooftops most days, it’s ideal for travelers who prefer a calmer, more intimate experience. Hotel rates drop, restaurants are easier to book, and the city’s romantic ambiance feels even more pronounced.

This is a great time for history lovers, food-focused trips, and anyone who enjoys exploring without crowds.

Key LGBTQ+ Events & Festivals in Savannah

Savannah’s LGBTQ+ event calendar may be smaller than major metro areas, but its celebrations are big, inclusive, and deeply woven into the city’s creative and social fabric.

Savannah Pride (October): Savannah Pride is the city’s largest LGBTQ+ celebration, held each October in Forsyth Park. Expect a weekend-long festival featuring live music, drag performances, community vendors, and parties across the city. It’s the best time of year to feel Savannah’s queer energy front and center — and one of the most popular weekends to visit.

St. Patrick’s Day (March): Savannah hosts one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the United States, and it’s an event unlike anything else in the South. While not an LGBTQ+ specific festival, the parade, citywide parties, and open-container atmosphere make it incredibly popular with the queer community. Book accommodations early — this weekend sells out fast.

SCAD Sidewalk Arts Festival (April): Each spring, the SCAD Sidewalk Arts Festival transforms Forsyth Park into a massive open-air art gallery. Students from the Savannah College of Art and Design create large-scale chalk murals across the sidewalks, drawing a creative, colorful, and very LGBTQ+ friendly crowd. It’s a fantastic cultural event that adds extra energy to spring visits.

Getting Here & Around

Getting to Savannah is simple — and once you arrive, the city’s compact layout makes exploring easy and enjoyable, especially if you stay within or near the Historic District.

By Air: Most travelers arrive via Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (airport code: SAV), located about 20 minutes from downtown Savannah. The airport is small, efficient, and refreshingly stress-free compared to major hubs, with short walks, smooth baggage claim, and straightforward arrivals.

SAV offers nonstop flights from many major U.S. cities, and ride-share pickup is well organized just outside baggage claim, making the transition from plane to hotel quick and easy.

Getting Around: Once you’re in town, getting around Savannah is refreshingly simple.

Uber and Lyft are plentiful, affordable, and reliable — especially for trips between neighborhoods, late-night bar hopping, or getting back to your hotel after a ghost tour or drag show. Ride-share is the easiest option if you plan on enjoying Savannah’s cocktail scene or nightlife.

For daytime exploring, walking is hands-down the best way to experience Savannah. The Historic District is flat, highly walkable, and filled with beautiful squares, shaded streets, and hidden courtyards that you’d miss if you were driving.

If you want a break from walking, Savannah also offers:

A rental car isn’t necessary if you’re staying downtown, but it can be useful for day trips to places like Bonaventure Cemetery, Tybee Island, or nearby coastal areas.

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 in Savannah?

Not necessarily. If you’re staying within or near Savannah’s Historic District, you can comfortably get around on foot — most restaurants, bars, sights, and nightlife are walkable.

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are easy and affordable for longer distances or late nights. A rental car is only really necessary if you plan to visit Bonaventure Cemetery, Tybee Island, or nearby coastal destinations during your stay.

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!

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are the best times to visit Savannah. Spring brings warm temperatures, blooming azaleas, and lively patios, while fall offers cooler weather, fewer crowds, and a relaxed local vibe — especially in October during Savannah Pride.

Summer is busiest but hot and humid, with higher hotel rates and afternoon storms. Winter is quieter and more affordable, making it a great option for travelers focused on food, history, nightlife, and cozy bar hopping rather than outdoor sightseeing.

Is Savannah safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?

Yes. Savannah is generally safe, welcoming, and LGBTQ+ friendly, especially in the Historic District, River Street area, and popular nightlife zones. The city has a strong creative and arts community, which contributes to its inclusive feel.

As with any destination, use common sense — stick to well-lit areas at night, use ride-shares after bar hopping, and stay aware of your surroundings.

Final Thoughts

Savannah is romance, mystery, history, and queerness wrapped in Spanish moss and candlelight. It’s a city that rewards curiosity, encourages wandering, and welcomes LGBTQ+ travelers with ease and charm.

If you love cities with soul, Savannah belongs on your travel list.