Overview & Suitability
Located directly on Savannah's historic waterfront, the 146-218 E River St Car Park (officially known as River Street Parking Lot 3) is a prime municipal surface parking facility. Situated at the foot of the historic Abercorn Ramp, this open-air lot provides 50 public parking spaces, making it exceptionally convenient for visitors wishing to explore the bustling shops, restaurants, and bars along East River Street. The lot is highly suitable for standard passenger vehicles such as sedans, SUVs, and minivans. However, due to its tight layout, historic cobblestone approach, and heavy pedestrian traffic, it is strictly unsuitable for RVs, motorhomes, campers, or vehicles towing trailers.
Access, Dimensions & Clearance
Accessing the lot requires driving down one of Savannah's historic cobblestone ramps—specifically the Abercorn Ramp—from Bay Street. Drivers should note that River Street operates as a one-way street running from west to east. Because it is an open-air, flat surface lot, there are no overhead height clearance restrictions to worry about, making it a safe choice for taller SUVs or trucks with roof racks. However, navigating the area can be challenging; the cobblestones are uneven, the parking lanes are narrow, and the high volume of pedestrians walking along the Riverwalk requires slow and highly cautious driving.
Parking Rates, Tariffs & Booking
This is a city-operated, pay-on-arrival lot with parking rates structured as follows:
- Hourly Rate: $2.00 per hour.
- Daily Enforcement: Enforced Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Free Parking: Parking is free overnight (from 8:00 PM to 8:00 AM) and all day on Sundays, as well as on officially recognized city holidays.
- Payment Methods: Payments can be made on-site at the multi-space master kiosks using credit/debit cards (Visa and MasterCard only), coins, or bills. Alternatively, drivers can pay and extend their sessions remotely using the official ParkSavannah mobile application.
- Reservations: Spaces are available strictly on a first-come, first-served basis; advance reservations are not permitted.
Security & Amenities
As a public city lot, the facility features basic street-level lighting and is subject to regular patrols by the City of Savannah’s parking enforcement and local law enforcement officers. While there is no dedicated security guard or physical barrier gate, the high levels of foot traffic in this busy tourist district provide natural surveillance. The lot features clearly marked, ADA-compliant wheelchair-accessible parking spaces, offering direct step-free access to the scenic Savannah Riverfront Walk.
Strategic Alternative
With only 50 spaces, River Street Parking Lot 3 fills up rapidly, especially during weekends, holidays, and major riverfront festivals. If this lot is full, drivers can head to excellent nearby alternatives managed by the City of Savannah. The Bryan Street Parking Garage (located at 100 E. Bryan St) and the Eastern Wharf Parking Garage (at 301 Passage Way) are great multi-story alternatives that offer ample parking spaces, covered protection, and stable hourly rates just a short walk or quick elevator ride away from the waterfront.
