Overview & Suitability
The Plant Riverside Parking Garage, located at 500 West River Street, serves as the premier subterranean parking resource for the iconic JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District and the wider River Street waterfront. Built in partnership with the City of Savannah, this facility offers nearly 500 parking spaces (488 total) designed to accommodate standard passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks. It is highly suitable for tourists, business travelers, and locals heading to the district's numerous restaurants, rooftop bars, and retail shops. Note that because this is an underground garage, it is not suitable for RVs, buses, or oversized vehicles.
Access, Dimensions & Clearance
This modern, multi-level garage runs up to four levels underground, making it a unique architectural feat in the historic, low-lying Savannah riverfront. Navigating the garage requires careful attention due to tight turns, ramps, and compact parking spaces. Drivers of larger SUVs and full-size trucks are advised to fold their side mirrors inward for easier maneuvering. High-clearance vehicles and dually trucks should exercise extreme caution, and oversized vehicles are prohibited from entering.
Parking Rates, Tariffs & Booking
The garage operates on a clear, tiered pricing structure, with payment processed entirely via credit or debit card (cash is not accepted). Rates are outlined as follows:
- 0 to 3 Hours: $10.00
- 3 to 6 Hours: $20.00
- Overnight / Daily Maximum: $45.00
For guests staying overnight at the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District, valet parking is also available directly at the hotel entrance (400 W River St) for approximately $53.00 to $60.00 per night, which includes in-and-out privileges. No monthly permits or weekly rates are currently available. Pricing may fluctuate or be subject to event-based flat rates during major holidays, festivals, or special events along the waterfront.
Security & Amenities
The facility is well-lit, fully gated, and monitored to ensure peace of mind for visitors. Because it is connected directly to the upscale JW Marriott and the bustling Plant Riverside District, the area benefits from high foot traffic, on-site hotel security, and regular patrols. The garage features automated pay-by-plate or credit card terminals at the exit, and a standard 10-minute grace period is provided upon entry. Elevators and clear pedestrian signage connect all subterranean levels directly to the riverfront walk.
Strategic Alternative
This garage acts as an exceptional parking alternative for anyone visiting the western end of Savannah's Historic Landmark District. It provides immediate, hassle-free access to top destinations including the Riverfront Walk, the Georgia Power Plant building, and the African-American Monument, while bypassing the congested and hard-to-find street-level parking spaces along Bay Street. For those willing to walk a short distance, cheaper public parking alternatives like the Whitaker Street Garage are located just a few blocks away.
