A Weekend in Savannah: Luxury, Fun, and Family-Friendly Eats
This past weekend, I absolutely fell in love with Savannah—and honestly, I can’t believe it took me this long to visit! From stunning accommodations to incredible food and even a little Disney magic, our quick 20-hour trip was packed with unforgettable moments.
Where We Stayed: The JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District
If you're visiting Savannah, The JW Marriott at Plant Riverside is a must. Centrally located along River Street, this hotel is not just a place to stay—it’s an experience. With over 12 restaurants, a prime location on the Savannah Riverwalk, and family-friendly amenities, it was the perfect choice for our short trip.
We were upgraded to a Corner room suite and it was absolutely gorgeous, with an incredible view—we were literally staying right under the Plant Riverside sign! 🤣 And let me tell you, my daughter, Dorian, was convinced I had taken her to a dinosaur museum. The lobby is filled with huge gemstones, fossils, and even a scavenger hunt for kids, making it a dream for little explorers.
Exploring Savannah’s History: First African Baptist Church
One of the most profound experiences of our trip was visiting First African Baptist Church, one of the oldest Black churches in North America. Walking through this historic space was both sobering and empowering—a reminder of the resilience and faith of those who came before us.
The church, which was organized in 1773 and built by enslaved people, holds an incredible legacy. Standing in a place with so much history, where people worshiped, persevered, and fought for their freedom, was an experience I’ll never forget. If you're in Savannah, I highly recommend taking a guided tour to learn about the church’s rich history and its role in the community.
Family-Friendly Dining in Savannah
You know we had to eat well while we were in town! Here are the highlights from our foodie adventures:
🍽 Belford’s Savannah Seafood & Steaks – We indulged in a Black-owned fine dining experience at this historic spot in City Market. The food was divine, and the service was top-tier—definitely a must for a special night out!
🍕 Graffito Pizza – Because when a toddler requests pizza, you listen! This casual eatery served up delicious, cheesy slices that made both Dorian and me happy.
🍪 Byrd’s Famous Cookies – No trip to Savannah is complete without a stop at Byrd’s for their iconic bite-sized cookies. The free samples alone are worth the visit!
The Reason for Our Trip: Disney on Ice!
The real reason for our whirlwind trip? Disney on Ice! Seeing the magic come to life on the ice was the perfect way to wrap up our Savannah adventure. Even though 20 hours wasn’t nearly enough time to experience everything the city has to offer, we made it work—and it was absolutely worth it.
Final Thoughts
Savannah, you’ve officially stolen my heart. From luxurious stays at The JW Marriott to family-friendly fun, incredible food, and beautiful riverfront views, I’m already planning my next visit!
If you’re looking for a quick getaway that combines history, luxury, and fun for all ages, put Savannah on your list. And if you’ve been, tell me your favorite spots—I’ll make sure to check them out next time!
