Savannah does nightlife differently. Instead of loud clubs and packed dance floors, the city leans into atmosphere, storytelling, and well-crafted cocktails served in spaces that feel discovered rather than advertised. From basement hideaways to historic rooms dressed in velvet and brass, Savannah’s speakeasies and cocktail lounges invite you to slow down, dress up a little, and make an evening out of it.
Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable nightcap after dinner, these spots offer the kind of ambiance travelers remember long after the trip ends. Consider this a local-style guide to Savannah’s most intriguing hidden bars and elevated lounges.
Congress Street Up
If you want a true step back in time, Congress Street Up sets the tone. Tucked inside the American Prohibition Museum, this vintage-inspired speakeasy recreates the feel of the 1920s with period decor, jazz influences, and cocktails rooted in Prohibition-era traditions. The room feels intimate and transportive, making it a great choice for history lovers or anyone wanting a classic Savannah night out.
This is the kind of place where you linger over a drink, take in the atmosphere, and let the evening unfold slowly. It pairs well with a dinner downtown and is especially popular with visitors who want a uniquely Savannah experience without the noise of busier nightlife areas.
The Alley Cat Lounge
The Alley Cat Lounge is one of Savannah’s most well-known speakeasy-style bars, and for good reason. Hidden down an alley and set in a basement-style space, it delivers exactly what travelers imagine when they think “speakeasy.” Dim lighting, brick walls, and a cozy layout create an intimate environment that feels equal parts secret and social.
Known for its creative cocktail menu, Alley Cat is ideal for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed but stylish stop. It tends to fill up in the evenings, so arriving earlier in the night often makes for a more comfortable experience.
The Peacock Lounge
Bold, dramatic, and polished, The Peacock Lounge brings a glamorous edge to Savannah’s cocktail scene. With eye-catching decor and a refined drink menu, it offers a speakeasy-worthy vibe while still feeling modern and energetic. The space feels designed for people who appreciate aesthetics just as much as what is in their glass.
This lounge is a strong option for travelers who want a sophisticated setting without sacrificing energy. It works well as a starting point for a night out or as a destination in itself for conversation and cocktails.
The Lost Square
For groups who want an upscale evening without loud music or crowded floors, The Lost Square offers a refined alternative. This hidden gem focuses on cocktail craftsmanship and a calm, intimate atmosphere that encourages conversation. The space feels intentional and understated, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the experience.
It is especially appealing for travelers visiting Savannah with friends or couples who prefer elegant environments over high-volume nightlife. The Lost Square is the kind of place where one drink easily turns into two.
Artillery
Artillery is housed in a historic armory building, and the setting alone sets expectations for what is inside. This upscale cocktail bar focuses on expertly crafted drinks served with polished, attentive service. The space balances historic character with modern sophistication, creating a mood that feels elevated without being formal.
Artillery appeals to travelers who appreciate precision, presentation, and a quieter atmosphere. It is a natural choice for a refined pre-dinner drink or a relaxed late evening stop where quality takes center stage.
The Bootlegger
Located on River Street, The Bootlegger blends 1920s-inspired decor with a lively, social energy. The speakeasy influence is clear in the styling and drink selection, but the atmosphere is more upbeat than some of Savannah’s quieter lounges. This makes it a great bridge between history and modern nightlife.
For visitors spending time along the riverfront, The Bootlegger offers an easy way to enjoy craft cocktails while soaking in the buzz of one of Savannah’s most popular areas. It works well for groups who want something festive but still rooted in character and charm.
La Aparicion
For those who love the thrill of discovering something hidden, La Aparicion delivers an exclusive, speakeasy-adjacent experience. Tucked discreetly through another downtown bar, this chic spot feels intentionally off-the-radar. The ambiance is refined, the cocktails are elevated, and the overall experience feels curated.
This is an excellent option for travelers looking to impress or to enjoy a quieter, more intimate setting later in the evening. La Aparicion rewards curiosity and is best enjoyed when you are in the mood to savor both the drinks and the atmosphere.
Planning the perfect Savannah night out
Savannah’s speakeasies and cocktail lounges are best enjoyed with a bit of intention. Many travelers plan their evenings around one or two standout spots rather than bar hopping, allowing time to appreciate the details that make these spaces special. Pairing a reservation at a downtown restaurant with a nearby lounge creates a seamless and memorable night.
Staying in a centrally located vacation rental makes it easy to enjoy Savannah’s nightlife without worrying about transportation or long walks at the end of the evening. Southern Belle Vacation Rentals place guests close to downtown and historic neighborhoods, making spontaneous cocktail plans simple and stress-free.
Why Savannah shines after dark
Savannah’s nightlife reflects the city itself. Historic, stylish, and quietly confident. Instead of chasing trends, these speakeasies and lounges focus on atmosphere, storytelling, and craftsmanship. For visitors, that means evenings that feel intentional and immersive rather than rushed or overwhelming.
Whether you are sipping a classic cocktail in a Prohibition-era-inspired room or discovering a hidden lounge behind an unmarked entrance, Savannah offers a nightlife experience that feels personal and unforgettable. It is the perfect complement to days spent exploring the city’s history, architecture, and coastal beauty. Stay at one of our properties to be close to all the action.