The best rooftop bars in Savannah: How to enjoy a birds-eye view at the hottest places overlooking this fabulous Georgia city.
The best rooftop bars in Savannah:
How to enjoy a birds-eye view at the hottest places overlooking this fabulous Georgia city.
By Lisa Mowry
Savannah is already one of the most beautiful cities in the southeast, but now you can experience it from above. New rooftop bars in different parts of this historic city are ALL about the view, but most of them have great cocktails, mocktails, and food as an added bonus. Grab a friend and head to this coastal Georgia town to check them out!
The Lost Square
Neighborhood: Riverside Plant District
More info: The Lost Square
This spacious rooftop bar has it all: sofas for lounging, tables and chairs for dining, and a chance to view Savannah from all directions. Located in The Alida Hotel–a block from the river–its industrial/bohemian vibe will enchant you. Make sure to head there for sunset and enjoy the lights twinkling around the river; the Talmadge Memorial Bridge and cargo ships passing by are an ever-changing backdrop.
What to get: the Mediterranean-inspired menu of food and drinks includes lively beverages such as the Valencia Spritz (made with an orange apertif), the Lost Mule (their version of a Moscow Mule), their namesake beer Alida Harper Saison, and refreshing mocktails such as Good Company made with zero-proof gin. Shareable plates are small enough for a snack but can serve as dinner. The Lost Square burger combines ground lamb, spiced aioli, red onion, and feta, and it pairs well with the black-eyed peas falafel bites. Their variation of a ham and cheese sandwich—called Spanish Bikini—mixes ham, Manchego, and fig jam on sourdough.
Savannah 01: Six stories high, The Lost Square rooftop bar delivers views of the brick-front buildings, Talmadge Bridge, and river activities of downtown Savannah. Image: Lisa Mowry
Savannah 02: The industrial vibe of The Lost Square draws locals and tourists alike. Image: The Lost Square
Savannah 03: Multiple places to sit are a big reason this rooftop bar is popular year-round and with all ages. Image: Lisa Mowry
Peregrin
Neighborhood: Historic District
More info: Peregrin
The sophisticated ambiane of this rooftop bar atop The Perry Lane Hotel comes from its new redo, which turned it into a colorful, conservatory-inspired destination. Think vibrant plants and murals, a birdcage-themed bar, and tile floors like you’d spot in Europe. Its location in the heart of historic homes, churches, and gardens will have you peeking over the side all night long.
What to get: Seven days a week patrons can sip on exotic cocktails and mocktails, with a lively wine and beer menu, as well. The “Bites” menu has influences from all over the world, with items such as a Bao Bun, Chaat Fries, Laarb, and Dolmas to fill your belly, with some gourmet cookies to top it all off.
04: High above the historic district, the Coastal Crush cocktail at Peregrin combines fruity flavors and a lime & mint seltzer mixed with gin for a refreshing drink. Image: Lisa Mowry
05: Peregrin tapped into the local resources of SCADPro, creative minds through the Savannah College of Art & Design, to reimagine a rooftop experience that also references the past. Image: Perry Lane Hotel
05: A whimsical birdcage motif defines the bar backdrop at Peregrin. Image: Perry Lane Hotel.
Bar Julian
Neighborhood: Savannah River
More info: Bar Julian
Savannah’s tallest rooftop bar sits on the 13th floor of the Thompson Hotel on the eastern side of the river, with views for miles and a chic décor. It’s where you can flock for a brunch with besties or come back to hear local bands Tuesday through Thursday. Below, you’ll spot the new SAV sign along the Eastern Wharf, ships going by, and people walking the riverfront.
What to get: The drinks are both tasty and creative, and have clever names…Bees Knees, Perfect Timing, About Last Summer, and Back in Business for starters. My mocktail was a good accompaniment to the Mediterranean food. Start with the Mezze platter, a tasty plate of red pepper dip, dolmas, crudite, and fresh bread…enough by itself, but also perfect as an appetizer. Flatbreads and burgers offer heartier fare. And while the outside seating is terrific, bistro-style interiors are just as fun to catch the vibe.
07: High ceilings, European ambiance, and views in every direction help make Bar Julian one of the most lauded rooftop bars in Savannah. Image: Bar Julian
08: The mocktail called Carrie Nation is a refreshing side to the flavorful Mediterranean brunch options at Bar Julian: a Mezzo platter and chick kabobs. Image: Lisa Mowry
Electric Moon Sky Lounge
Where: Riverside Plant District
More info: Electric Moon Sky Lounge
This two-story rooftop bar comes with a playful “Moon Deck,” a separate floor for games with a lawn, and best of all, you can take a slide or spiral staircase to get there! This energetic rooftop bar is on top of this J.W. Marriott Hotel and overlooks the river and hubbub along the strollable Riverside Plant District walkway. There’s also a dance floor, TVs for sports-watching, and a party vibe. (Note that it’s a fun place to bring kids during the day, but after 6 pm, the bar is 21 and over only.)
What to get: Specialty cocktails play off the lunar theme, with names such as Lunar Landing, Space Cowboy, and Moon Margarita. Food taps into familiar bar favorites: sliders, chicken wings, and loaded tots.
09: The illuminated smokestacks on the J.W. Marriott Hotel lets you know you’re at the right place for their rooftop bar, distinguished by a riverfront view on one side, and this secondary level with games such as cornhole—and a slide for a memorable arrival. Image: Lisa Mowry
10: A loft-like decor defines the Electric Moon Sky Lounge. Image: Lisa Mowry