A Dog-Friendly Savannah Weekend

There are several pet-friendly hotel options in the Savannah historic district. On other trips to Savannah, I have stayed at the Kimpton Brice and Thompson Savannah with my dog. Both of these hotels are super pet-friendly and have no additional fees for pets staying in the room with you. However, on this trip I stayed at the East Bay Inn. It is a lovely historic boutique inn near the river and lots of great areas to walk your dog. My dog and I stayed in their Patio Queen room, which has a private patio for sitting outside with your pup. The hotel also does a nice wine and beer reception each evening, which is included in your amenity fee. Note: There is a $75 pet fee for the stay, but that includes up to two pets.

Forsyth Park

Savannah is definitely a town for history and storytelling. Since I had my dog with me, I sought out activities where I could experience what the city had to offer, but take my pup along with me. I recommend the following dog-friendly tours:

• Oliver Bentley’s Historic Dog Walk Tour: 2-hour guided walking tour with your dog through the Historic District of Savannah. Learn about Savannah’s rich history and all the dog-friendly activities our city has to offer.

• The Beyond Good and Evil Tour from Ghost City Tours: A ghost tour that combines storytelling that is unique to Savannah’s history. Must be 16 years old or older.

Savannah’s food scene is a vibrant blend of Southern comfort food, fresh seafood, and innovative cuisine. The city boasts a diverse range of dining experiences, from upscale restaurants in historic buildings to casual cafes and lively bars. Since I had my dog with me, I mainly visited places that had outdoor dining, so I could bring her along with me.

• The Olde Pink House: Serves classic Southern cuisine in an elegant mansion built in 1771. For this meal, I left the pup behind and enjoyed a nice leisurely dinner inside.

• Cafe M: Cute little Parisian-style cafe that has a few outdoor tables where you can sit and relax while taking in the view along Factor’s Walk. The tables aren’t shaded, so keep that in mind if it is midday.

• B. Matthews: Great brunch spot. There is limited outdoor seating, but it is shaded.

• J. Christophers: Another great place for brunch. They have a menu for dogs!

• Tequila’s Town: Great Mexican food and an extensive tequila list.

• 208 Wine Bar: Wonderful wine bar on Bay Street. Great place to stop in for a glass of wine and a light bite to eat.

• Leopold’s Ice Cream: Famous ice cream place in Savannah!

• The Coffee Fox: Craft coffee house serving fresh pastries.

Finally, Savannah has some fabulous unique shopping, and a lot of the establishments even let you bring your pet in with you. Here are some of my favorite places:

• Oliver Bentleys: Purveyors of premium dog products and the above-mentioned dog-friendly historic walking tour.

• River Street Market Place: Open-air shopping stalls along the river.

• Mia Boutique: Cute gift shop with unique jewelry along the river.

• Savannah Bee Company: Based in Savannah. Sells honey-related products, including their own honey, beauty products, and candles.

• The Olfractory Co.: Specialty fragrance store.

Savannah can be really hot and humid in the summer months, so bring a portable fan for outdoor dining with your pup. Also, don’t forget a water bowl (although most places there are happy to provide one).

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Savannah page.