Andaz Savannah

As part of Hyatt's hipster-friendly Andaz brand, this outpost doesn't disappoint when it comes to stylish vibes and a funky, almost start-up-office-like atmosphere. Inside a six-story restored brick building, the Andaz features a bright, high-ceilinged lobby with polished concrete floors and urban-chic decor that includes plenty of natural stone, reclaimed wood, and wrought-iron lighting with classic Edison bulbs. Instead of checking in at a reception desk, guests are welcomed by a staff member with an iPad, as befits a hotel that's after the young and trendy demographic. Enticing aromas waft from the open kitchen of the lobby's farm-to-table restaurant, and walls are filled with vibrant works by local artists from the Savannah College of Art and Design. The rooftop pool terrace has a similar relaxed vibe, with canopied cabanas, lounge chairs and an outdoor bar with fire pit. Despite the youthful vibe, the appeal of this Andaz is wide, and guests should expect to see everyone from couples and families to business travelers passing through the hotel's doors. 

The Andaz is in a great location on Ellis Square, a wide, open area with plenty of lawns and benches. City Market is across the street and historic River Street is two blocks away. There are tons of restaurants, bars, shops, and attractions within walking distance, and the tour trolley stops across the street from hotel. The Savannah College of Art and Design and the Savannah Belles Ferry to the International Trade & Convention Center are both within a 15-minute walk. The drive to Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport takes less than 20 minutes.

Rooms are large and modern, with stylish dark wood veneer furniture that employs both sleek contemporary aesthetics and Old Southern silhouettes to create a funky then-and-now atmosphere. This is all complemented by bright contemporary art and boldly patterned armchairs, while details like Venetian mirrors, done with fragmented mirror frames around the actual mirror, add even more old-school shimmer. The look does vary a bit from category to category. Some feature wide wood plank floors, separate sitting areas and kitchenettes with granite-topped counters. 

Freebies include Wi-Fi and fridges stocked with free snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. All rooms also have 42-inch flat-screen TVs, single-cup coffeemakers, air-conditioning, iPod docks, and electronic safes. Balconies overlooking the Savannah Historic District are nice in theory, but they are too tiny for more than one person, and it's worth noting that rooms overlooking the pool terrace or Ellis Square can pick up some noise, especially on the weekends. Bathrooms are large and sharp, with off-white tile walls, modern glass showers, and thoughtful extras including lighted makeup mirrors, extra-large sinks, lots of granite counter space, and plenty of upscale toiletries. Some also have deep soaking tubs. 

Despite its central location, there's a lot to like about the features at The Andaz. One of the stand-out offerings is its casual, farm-to-table restaurant, 22 Square, which is open for breakfast and dinner. It's a well-liked restaurant frequented by locals and hotel guests alike, and offers seasonal, local menus with -- of course -- plenty of Southern specialties. There are several options for breakfast, from a la carte options to a harvest table, though none are included with room rates. A cozy bar serves handcrafted cocktails made with fresh juices and homemade tonics. There's also a pool terrace with an outdoor bar, cabanas, and a fire pit that hosts live bands and enthusiastic crowds on weekends. A well-equipped fitness room is open 24 hours, and valet parking, although expensive, is convenient, as downtown street parking is hard to find. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, and the hotel has space for events and meetings plus catering.