The Cotton Sail Hotel Savannah, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

"Why did this hotel catch your attention?The Cotton Sail is a 56-room hotel that pays homage to the city’s riverside commerce. It sits in an enviable location directly overlooking the Savannah River, with a stately calmness that belies its size. Like many hotels around the city, its red-brick exterior hints at its history. What's the backstory?There are still visible traces of this hotel’s past as a 19th century cotton warehouse, not least in the striking heart-of-pine floors that were once part of the building’s original roof. Fully renovated and assuringly modern inside, the hotel is now part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection. Tell us about the accommodations.Our Standard Guest Room had period wooden floors and windows overlooking the river. Brown-and-green accents conjured up a pseudo-rustic ambience, and the bathroom felt contemporary. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?The Wi-Fi was free and fast. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?The hotel doesn’t have a full restaurant, but there's a pleasant continental breakfast buffet with a couple of basic cooked options. Two adjacent restaurants—Top Deck and The River House—expand the nearby dining options, and there's also rooftop bar overlooking the river. How was the service?The scale of the hotel lends itself to a wonderfully personable level of service. The staff mostly remembered our names, and a concierge was quick to recommend tours and entertainment. What type of travelers will you find here?The clientele skews young. You may even see small bachelor and bachelorette parties. What about the neighborhood? What's the scene like?Guests can step out of the hotel and right onto River Street, by day a pleasant thoroughfare set against the scenic Savannah River. At night, pubs and restaurants keep things going until late. Any other hotel features worth noting?This is relatively small hotel, and its riverside location, historic details, and views are the main selling points. There's also a small fitness center and a rooftop bar. Bottom line: Why should we choose the Cotton Sail?Come for the views and riverside tranquility; stay for the cool crowd and warm, personal service." - Paul Oswell