In Savannah, conducting business comes with many appealing extras: fireflies and magnolia trees, warm breezes and Southern hospitality, live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and a variety of exceptional addresses for meetings and gatherings. One of the most significant developments for the meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) market is the planned expansion of the Savannah Convention Center. The project will add 40,000 square feet of ballroom space, 13 new meeting rooms and another 100,000 square feet of exhibit space. Situated on Hutchinson Island, the convention complex is about 20 minutes from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and is easily reached from other East Coast destinations via I-95 and I-16.
“Expanding the Convention Center in Savannah is indeed a game-changer, offering the city a competitive edge in hosting large-scale events,” said Joseph Marinelli, president and CEO of Visit Savannah. “With more than 18,000 rooms available citywide and over 8,000 within the Historic Landmark District, Savannah can accommodate a wide range of attendees while offering a unique mix of historic charm and modern amenities. That combination makes Savannah an exceptional destination for both business and leisure travelers, distinguishing it from other coastal areas in Georgia.”
As Marinelli noted, the convention center is not the only option for organizing memorable meetings or events. The city also offers an array of distinctive venues, acclaimed dining choices and lively entertainment options.
“Savannah has an eclectic mix of off-site venues that add surprise and delight to meetings and events,” Marinelli said. “Groups can enjoy a day at the ballpark with the world-famous Savannah Bananas exhibition baseball team or host a reception aboard one of the Savannah riverboat cruises.”
© Rolf52 | Dreamstime.com
There are many striking options and unique spaces for corporate gatherings of different sizes. The Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, housed in the Greek Revival William Scarbrough House, features the elegant Assembly Room and expansive private gardens, including a 19th-century Parlor Garden, a bricked terrace, a vine-covered pergola and a pavilion with a copper roof—ideal for receptions and outdoor breaks.
If outdoor settings are a priority, the Georgia State Railroad Museum—part of the same complex that includes the city’s central Visitor Information Center—offers vintage steam and diesel locomotives amid grounds suited for events. The Worker’s Garden with its fountain is great for cocktail receptions; the Machine Shop’s lawn provides open-air space; and the Blacksmith Shop, a rustic brick building dating to 1855, lends historic character. Indoor options on site include the Roundhouse/Overnight Shed with a full stage and the Tender Frame Shop for smaller gatherings. Organizers can arrange train tours and historical interpreters to engage attendees with the site’s antebellum and industrial history.
Before, between or after meetings, attendees should take time to explore Savannah from multiple perspectives. In addition to the Savannah Belles ferries that connect Hutchinson Island with the convention center, trolley tours run through the historic district. ADA-accessible, complimentary DOT shuttles operate throughout downtown seven days a week, excluding Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
© Darryl Brooks | Dreamstime.com
Unique Venues
Add a touch of vintage elegance to meeting plans at one of Savannah’s historic addresses. The Kessler Armstrong Mansion, a National Historic Landmark in the city’s Historic District, makes a lasting impression. Built in Renaissance Revival style in 1919, the mansion features granite balustraded terraces, bronze entry doors and landscaped gardens. Its indoor and outdoor spaces showcase rich architectural detail and can host anything from intimate private meetings to large-scale business events. The property’s experienced planning team offers logistics support and custom catering, and the on-site Poseidon Spa can be used for incentive programs.
Also downtown and steeped in history, The Marshall House served as a Union hospital and housed Union troops during General William Tecumseh Sherman’s campaign. Today it provides three versatile meeting spaces that accommodate small gatherings or groups up to about 200 people. The Leopold Adler Boardroom, at 275 square feet, is suited for intimate meetings. The Atrium, at 1,200 square feet, seats roughly 80 guests or holds up to 100 standing. The W.W. Law Room, also 1,200 square feet, fits about 70 seated or 80 standing. Event staff can arrange neighborhood experiences such as guided historic or haunted tours. During breaks, attendees may explore the hotel’s third-floor collection of Civil War documents, which includes letters, newspapers and original prints that add historical context to a stay.