Mansion on Forsyth Park
"Why did this hotel catch your attention? Buildings in Savannah don’t get much more Southern Gothic than the 19th century, red brick building that houses Mansion on Forsyth Park. The structure is nothing if not imposing, its color and size commanding attention as a striking—and much-loved—piece of architecture. What's the backstory? As befits its slightly macabre outward appearance, the building housed a funeral home before opening as a hotel in 2005, and has been renovated since then. Tell us all about the rooms. The architecture is reflected in various ways inside; say, in the grand wooden headboard in a standard room. Browns and creams dominated the color palette and old-timey candelabras added to the spooky-chic vibes. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi? The Wi-Fi was free and fast. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at? The all-day restaurant 700 Drayton feels like an old mansion with wood paneling, atmospheric animal portraits, and game trophies. Breakfast is straightforward; lunch and dinner sprinkle in options like local crab cakes and pecan-crusted salmon. How was the service? The staff are well-trained and polite. Doors are held open, luggage is whisked away, and needs are anticipated with aplomb. What type of travelers will you find here? This is an upscale hotel with a well-to-do clientele. Art lovers will feel especially at home among the paintings and sculptures peppered around the hotel. What about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in, make itself part of the scene? The hotel sets the tone for the neighborhood. Forsyth Park is right at your doorstep—try to snag a room with a view. Any other hotel features worth noting? The Poseidon Spa has a full range of treatments. There's an onsite cooking school where guests can take a variety of classes. And in addition to the art around the building, there's also a stand-alone gallery with a collection of Victorian hats. Bottom line: Worth it? This is a five-star experience that embraces the quirky appeal of a small boutique hotel and the slightly macabre history of the building." - Paul Oswell
