The Thunderbird Inn's retro sign welcomes visitors to Savannah. — Photo courtesy of Thunderbird Inn

That colorful, retro-looking motel you see as you’re exiting the Talmadge Bridge and entering Downtown Savannah also happens to be one of the best deals in town. The Thunderbird Inn, a 42-room motel within walking distance of the Historic District, bills itself as the “Hippest Hotel in Savannah” and does a mighty fine job of living up to its tagline.

The hotel’s bright exterior and vintage sign hearken back to 1964, the year the original Thunderbird was built. Inside, the Thunderbird’s interior has been completely renovated. Rooms feature amenities such as pillow-top beds, writing desks with high-speed internet connections and fully stocked bathrooms with spa-quality personal care items.

The rates are reasonable–perhaps the most reasonable of any Historic District hotel–the staff is friendly and helpful, and the digs are comfortable. But it’s the little perks that get most visitors excited about their stay at the Thunderbird. Each night, weary travelers receive a classic MoonPie marshmallow cookie on their pillow. At breakfast, guests are treated to fresh Krispy Kreme donuts and coffee.

The hotel even rolls out the red carpet for pets, offering its four-legged guests custom Thunderbird Inn pet beds, stainless steel dishes and a mat, along with gourmet pet treats and a souvenir Thunderbird Inn pet tag.

George the sock monkey poses with the Thunderbird Inn's line of all-natural pet care products. — Photo courtesy of Thunderbird Inn

If you’re really lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of George Monk, the Thunderbird Inn’s retro sock monkey. George usually hangs around during breakfast and has even been known to travel around town with a few lucky guests.