Review Author

Lindsay Cohn

Contributing Writer

HOTEL SNAPSHOT

Savannah puts its cobbled squares and oaks draped with Spanish moss on display for all to see. But to ignore the present in favor of some nostalgic view of the past would be missing the point. Yes, the Hostess City of the South has heaps of history and Southern charm. But the new wave of boutique hotels, bars, restaurants, and creative spaces demonstrates its knack for keeping this fresh. For modern-minded travelers who favor a relaxed, sociable environment and good-time vibes, Municipal Grand is just the ticket. 

Design & Character

Occupying the 1961-built First Federal Savings and Loan Association building, Municipal Grand draws plenty of design inspiration from its midcentury bones but puts a decidedly modern twist on things. Reimagined by AAmp Studio, the new 44-key hotel—the second hospitality project from Midnight Auteur (the hospitality brand started by the founders of Death & Co., which includes The Ramble Hotel in Denver’s River North Arts District)—is the hippest spot to sip and stay in Savannah. 

The Rooms

The midcentury character of the building varies in the guest rooms, which feature hardwood floors, rich jewel tones, curved furnishings, and dimmable lights to set the mood. Because this is a temple that booze built, cocktail supplies and books penned by the founders decorate the bar. The Zia tiled bathrooms are sleek and stylish. 

Food & Drink

Rather than a run-of-the-mill lobby, Municipal Grand—most specifically its cocktail-empire-building founders—put stock in guests (and locals who stop in regularly) wanting to sip cocktails and chat in the living room bar. It’s the perfect place to enjoy your welcome beverage at check-in, grab brunch (one of the menu highlights is the crispy chicken sando), or grab a martini before dinner. If you’re not ready to call it a night, The Hot Eye is a subterranean drinking den with low lighting, libations, and tunes. 

Amenities

There’s a chic rooftop with a pool, striped seating, and shade-giving umbrellas—much appreciated on hot Savannah days—plus a bar (duh). The entire setup is tailor-made for tossing back tipples and taking in the city views.

Location & Neighborhood Recs

Located in a landmark building at the corner of Broughton and Abercorn, Municipal Grand sits squarely in the Savannah Historic District for snapping photos of emblematic squares, moss-draped trees, and old mansions. It’s also down the street from The Paris Market, Savannah, a chic shop for curated French home wares and accessories. For a tasty mix of Vietnamese and Southern fare, Sunday Sunday awaits with its brick walls and authentic bánh xèo. 

Fast Facts

Location: Savannah, Georgia 

Vibe: Municipal building turned booze-forward boutique hangout. 

Rating: Four-star

Room Count: 44  

Starting Rate: Starting from $274 a night 

Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The social atmosphere and strong drinks. 

Dining: The bar-meets-all-day-eatery is the heart of the hotel—and the place to go for food and drinks. Late-night revelry goes down at The Hot Eye. 

Amenities: welcome cocktail; in-room dining; valet parking; fitness studio; year-round rooftop pool and bar  

Nearby Attractions: Plant Riverside District; Lucas Theatre For the Arts; Colonial Park Cemetery; Oglethorpe Square; Forsyth Park

Airport: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)