The Plant Riverside Parking Garage is a state-of-the-art facility located in the heart of Savannah's historic waterfront district. Designed to offer maximum convenience for visitors, hotel guests, and diners, it provides a safe, modern parking solution next to one of the city's most vibrant entertainment hubs.
Overview & Suitability
The Plant Riverside Parking Garage, located at 500 West River Street, is a newly constructed, highly modern parking facility built in partnership with the City of Savannah. Housing nearly 500 parking spaces (488 in total), it serves as the premier public parking resource for the bustling Plant Riverside District and the adjacent JW Marriott Savannah. This multi-level garage is perfectly suited for standard passenger vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and standard-sized pickup trucks. Please note that the facility is strictly restricted to standard cars; it cannot accommodate oversized vehicles, RVs, motorhomes, or trailers. Visitors with oversized vehicles are encouraged to utilize surface parking lots such as the nearby MLK Savannah Visitor Center Lot.
Access, Dimensions & Clearance
Access to the garage is exceptionally convenient. Drivers can reach River Street from Bay Street via MLK Jr. Blvd, turning right (east) onto River Street, which operates as a west-to-east one-way road. Drivers can also use historic cobblestone-paved ramps (such as the Barnard Ramp) to descend to the riverfront, though extra care is recommended on these historic routes. The facility features standard low-clearance ceiling limits typical of modern multi-story garages (approximately 6 feet 8 inches to 7 feet), which prevents entry for lifted trucks or commercial vehicles. Navigating inside the structure is easy, with wide drive lanes and clear lane markings.
Parking Rates, Tariffs & Booking
The Plant Riverside Parking Garage operates a cashless tier-based payment system, accepting credit and debit cards only. The self-parking tariff structure is as follows:
- 0 to 3 Hours: $10.00
- 3 to 6 Hours: $20.00
- Overnight / 24 Hours: $45.00
Please note that rates are subject to change, and flat-rate pricing may be enforced during holidays, festivals, or special city events. For guests seeking premium service, the adjacent JW Marriott Savannah offers valet parking starting at $15 for up to 4 hours, $20 for 4 to 8 hours, and approximately $54 to $55 for overnight stays. Online reservations and monthly public parking permits are currently unavailable for self-parking, meaning spaces are available solely on a first-come, first-served basis.
Security & Amenities
The facility prioritizes driver comfort and safety with top-tier security and convenience amenities, including:
- 24/7 active surveillance with high-definition CCTV cameras.
- Excellent high-density LED lighting throughout all levels.
- Gated entry and exit points with automated payment barriers.
- On-site elevators providing step-free access directly to River Street.
- Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations on the upper levels (subject to availability).
Strategic Alternative
This garage serves as an incredibly strategic parking base for exploring downtown Savannah. Parking directly on historic River Street is notoriously difficult due to extremely limited metered street parking. Utilizing this garage allows you to leave your car in a secure, covered environment while you walk along the riverfront. Additionally, the garage is located near the Savannah Belles Ferry dock, allowing you to catch a free ferry ride across to the Savannah Convention Center on Hutchinson Island, or jump on the free City of Savannah DOT shuttle to explore the rest of the Historic Landmark District with ease.
