Set the scene. Perry Lane opened in May 2018 and became a draw almost immediately for those tapping into the city’s increasingly creative happenings. It’s set in two buildings facing each other across Perry Lane, and at first glance, you aren't quite sure if they’re new structures or renovated historic ones—the architecture blends in so well. Inside, you’ll spot a library with a piano, leather chairs, and plantation shutters, updated with expansive art collection, a jewel-box of an elevator dressed in tropical wallpaper, and a rooftop bar and pool with some of the best views of downtown.
What’s the backstory?
It’s part of the Marriott group, in the Luxury Collection portfolio, but not in an obvious way. The building is new construction but manages to feel like it’s been around for quite some time. A real effort has been made to connect with Savannah’s culture and style, with input from local artisans.
What can we expect from our room?
A touch retro, yet crisp, clear, and uncluttered. Compared to rooms in the main building, those in the tower feel more spacious and private. All have metal-framed artwork, Turkish rugs, and leather chairs. There’s a rain shower but no tub, and a fluffy, sink-into-it bed next to a corner sofa.
What about the food and drink?
The ground-floor Emporium has a sit-down restaurant with an open kitchen plating up modern French bistro food but with Southern nods where appropriate—pimento cheese omelette, smoked fish rillettes. But it also throws a wine shop and wine bar in the mix, along with a deli and gelato stand, coffee bar, and even a mini-market. If there's nothing there that strikes your fancy, you still have the rooftop bar, not to mention The Wayward in the second tower, which stirs killer cocktails and has Eighties arcade games to plug into.
Who comes here?
Mostly young and sharp folk, dressed Southern smart—clean, pressed linen shorts and slacks, colorful short-sleeved shirts on men; bright summer dresses, sandals and hats on women. Everyone seems quite friendly.
How does it fit into the neighborhood?
It’s on the southern side of Savannah’s historic district—away from the somewhat seedy waterfront and close to Forsyth Park, the many squares, the design district, and favorite attractions such as the Mercer Williams House and Flannery O'Connor's childhood home. Savannah in general is more approachable than, say, New Orleans or Charleston, and is home to SCAD, the cutting-edge arts school, which drives a lot of the social scene here.
Anything we missed?
The pool. It’s one of the few hotel pools in Savannah, and one of the most attractive, with skyline views—it feels a bit tropical and 1960s. As does the rooftop bar, which has Astroturf for games and events.
Is it worth it— why?
This newcomer to Savannah’s hotel scene is already making a splash, and for good reason: the smart design would be enough, but it's also the way the hotel is so dedicated to integrating into the community—from the architecture to its restaurants—so it draws a local crowd beyond its guests. This is a hotel that’s intent on sticking around.
256 E Perry St., Savannah, Georgia 31401
United States
https://www.perrylanehotel.com/
(912) 415-9000