Kehoe House

"Why did this hotel catch your attention?Even among the plethora of Victorian mansions that line the shady squares of Savannah’s historic downtown, Kehoe House stands out. Its vivid red-brick facade is immediately noticeable, with a grand staircase leading to Italianate pillars and Renaissance Revival flourishes welcoming guests in an evocatively regal manner. Inside, plush drapes, 14-foot ceilings, dark wood panelling, and period antiques maintain the high-society ambience. What's the backstory?The house dates to the 1890s, when it first served as the home of businessman William Kehoe, his wife, and their 10 children. The family sold the house in 1930; from there, it became a boarding house, a funeral parlor, and home to the football star Joe Namath. It was sold again in 1990, and has been operating as a B&B ever since. Now it's continually cited as one of the best inns in the region—if not the country. Tell us all about the rooms.They vary in size and decor (two rooms have private balconies) but they’re all traditional, spacious, and elegant. On a recent visit, we stayed in the John Wesley Room, which had mustard-yellow walls, wood floors, and large windows. The decor felt unfussy, with little in the way of decorations beyond a fancy gilded mirror and crystal chandelier. There was both a tub and shower in the bathroom, and the room retained a sense of period grandeur without sacrificing any modern tech amenities. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?Wi-Fi is free and fast. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?Breakfast is a made-to-order in the dining room or in the form of room service. Choose among eggs, pastries, and morning favorites like French toast. There’s also a lovely selection of hors d’oeuvres and wine in the evening, plus warm cookies at turn-down. How was the service?Check-in to checkout, you're made to feel completely comfortable and at home. The staff is warm, welcoming, and thorough. What type of travelers will you find here?This is a no-kids-allowed place, so you're likely to see honeymooners or couples celebrating special occasions. The hotel draws all ages (minus the children), but guests tend to be affluent, successful, and well-traveled. What about the neighborhood? What's the scene like?The hotel overlooks the bijoux Columbia Square and is just a block or two from Oglethorpe Square, one of Savannah's original colonial squares. There are plenty of restaurants and things to do within walking distance. Any other hotel features worth noting?Even if you don’t book into a room with a private balcony, the shared courtyard and veranda are both pleasant enough spots to savor a glass of wine as the sun sets. Bottom line: Why will we love Kehoe House?There are a handful of places where you can still feel historic refinement in Savannah, and Kehoe House is among the best of them, and it does so without going overboard with antiques." - Paul Oswell