Ssshhh…I’m talking to myself because I am absolutely, positively not allowed to tell you where the Savannah speakeasy, Mata Hari’s, is located. Lucky for them, I am pretty good at keeping secrets. Besides if everybody knew, it wouldn’t be any fun.
Mata Hari is a sexy speakeasy in Savannah, Georgia that only allows entry through its discreet doors with a key.
How do you get a key? You need to know someone who knows someone with one. Lucky for you, I know a few someones willing to unlock the door for you. Keep reading.
In an unmarked, unexpected and dimly lit location you will find this private club. As you knock on the door, a small window slides open and the eyeballs staring out ask for the key. No key, no entry.
I had a key. Or rather the blessed folks I was with had one.
Once we entered the bar, which will bring you back to the 1920’s, we were greeted by a lounge singer who was on stage belting out the oldies.
Just beyond the performer was the bar which I immediately noticed was serving Absinthe. Holler! I have had several failed attempts at trying Absinthe the traditional way, by melting a sugar cube into the liquor and diluting with water.
Tonight there would be success.
Absinthe, which was banned for many years due to its hallucinogenic properties, isn’t that easy to find even now that the ban is lifted. And it’s not as potent. You probably won’t see fairies.
It has a heavy anise flavor, tasting like strong, alcoholic black licorice. Too strong for this wine girl to finish, so I followed it up with a Mata Hari Martini, which simply features a shot of absinthe mixed with other ingredients. Still strong. Looks like nothing will take the place of my beloved vino.
After an hour of drinking and mingling, we were taken into the hidden back room where the stage was set for burlesque.
We were treated to a preview of a fun and fitting show, complete with fire eaters and scantily clad women. Where do they sell those outfits? I think my husband would like one. For me to wear, not him.
See the ladies below? The ones wearing their pajamas to a swanky club? They have keys. Not on them, but back at their respective bed & breakfasts.
These are the Innkeepers at Savannah Inns, our hosts. And if you stay at any one of their four B&Bs (Dresser Palmer House, Zeigler House, Azalea Inn or Green Palm Inn), you can gain entry to Mata Hari’s.
I am sure there are other ways to secure a coveted key, I just don’t know what or how questionable they are. Maybe if you show up with pink hair, tulle on your butt and carrying a fire eating torch?
Asking a Innkeeper seems much easier.
Have you tried Absinthe before? Have you been to a speakeasy?
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Disclosure: My visit to Mata Hari’s was sponsored by Mata Hari and Savannah Inns, but all the words I write come straight from my, sometimes distorted, mind. Just as it should be.
Haven't had either one 😉 This looks like such a great time! You're an inspiration. Great post.
Hey, you used more than 2 Words 😉
It was a fun and memorable night! Thanks for the kind words.
The verdict is that I want them, but I don’t want to part with the $7,000 😉
I will probably end of going through with it, I’m just procrastinating which is not like me at all!
Looks like fun! I've always wanted to try absinthe but haven't been brave enough yet. I didn't realize it wasn't as strong now. Wonder if that's true for Europe too?
Absinthe is much stronger in Europe, but still not as strong as the real thing.
I want a key. Thanks for the tip. I'm gettin' one next time I go to Savannah!!
I hope you do! Have fun 🙂
I tried absinthe once. After about three small glasses, I melted right into the couch.
Did you see fairies? 😉
Ha ha unfortunately not 🙂
This sounds so cool! I had a couple of shots of absinthe at a new year's party several years ago and was surprised it didn't have much for an effect on me! Not sure it was the proper stuff.
In America they are not allowed to sell Absinthe that is as strong as in Europe, but even then it’s not as strong as before the ban. I only took a couple of sips, so it didn’t do much for me either, but it was fun!
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I haven't been to a speakeasy but i have recently had black absinthe. It was really strong but I liked it. It was on my bucket list 🙂 I really enjoy reading about your adventures by the way :D.
I haven’t heard of black absinthe, but now I want to try it!! Does it taste like black licorice too?
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I’m in Savannah tonight only 12-14-13 only celebrating my 40th with my husband. It would make our trip and my birthday if we could get into the Mata Hari speakeasy. Can you help please?? Karen@gram-promos.com
Just sent you an email 🙂
Coming to Savannah in April 2016 for 10 year anniversary, got to find a key!!!!
Cindy we’re going to Savannah this month for our 30th!! In fact we’ll be there starting 4/9! When will you be there? I’m hoping to get into the Mata Hari too. Can’t wait!!
We are hear, found the place but still looking for a key.
In Savannah for the weekend do you have any info on how to get a key?
My Fiance and I are coming to Savannah for the first time at the end of this month! I came across your wonderful article and we are knocking things off our bucket list before the wedding, can you help us? 🙂 Samantha.webber0828@gmail.com
thank you so much!
I wish I could help with this one, but all the ways I know about how to get a key are either in the article or some readers have shared some tips in the comments. I do hope you get to check it off your bucket list!!
Hello! Could you help me know a way to get in? Trying to sort out!
My parents are going to Savannah for vacation this Spring. I would love to get them in and it would be a great Christmas gift to them. Any tips? They have already made reservations so I can’t get them a night at one of the Inns.
So far, here are the ways that I have heard people being successful at getting in other than by the innkeepers mentioned:
through the concierge at a hotel, from a local shopkeeper and asking a local friend. It seems that someone in Savannah will know someone with a key. Best of luck!
how do I get a key if I didn’t book at one of the B&Bs? I’m staying tonight and tomorrow at Inn at. Ellis square.
Jenna
Hey Jenna, check out my response to the previous comment and it says all the ways I have heard of getting in. Good luck!! 🙂
In the picture he’s just pouring water onto the cube. That’s not the traditional way. The water is meant to be slowly dripped onto the cube using a special absinthe “fountain”. This is so the drink will gradually louche.
What inns or b&bs?
At the time this was published the B&Bs participating were Dresser Palmer House, Zeigler House, Azaela Inn and Green Palm Inn. But, you may want to reconfirm when you call.
We have a 3 couples coming up next weekend. Jan 17 – 20th. We have a speakeasy here in Sarasota but it is not as cool sounding as this one. Would you be able to help us get in somehow? This would make our trip. photoguru@comcast.net Thanks!
Hi David, If you read some of the past comments on this post I list all the ways I have heard of people getting a key. Best of luck 🙂
Having a girls weekend march 1-3 would love to know how to get a key please? Can you help please?
Hello Terrie,
If you read a few of the previous comments I list all the ways I have heard of people getting a key. It seems that most people have been pretty successful. Good Luck!! Savannah would be a great girls weekend!
Annette,
You mentioned “local shop keepers” to get a key or an invite. Do you know any specific locations? My wife and I just booked a B&B, but the innkeeper said she didn’t have, or know how to get a key. Also, do you know if you have to pay to get a key? Just trying to make sure our anniversary is fun. Thanks!
Hello Justin,
I wish I could be of more help, especially since it will be your anniversary, but I am not sure exactly which shopkeepers will have a key. Though another idea may be to ask a pedicab driver located throughout the city. They may have some insider info. since they are probably always taking people there. Good Luck. And if you get in please share with us how 🙂
Thanks!
Great idea.
Thank you so much for posting this. I’m getting married in August, and my fiance fell in love with Savannah one time she was there so we’re planning to go for our honeymoon. This will be great to do one night! 🙂
I was already looking at Zeigler House for a place to stay.
What a wonderful honeymoon Savannah will make! Unfortunately, when I went my husband was not with me, but I would love to bring him one day. Zeigler House is beautiful and on a gorgeous street. Congrats on your upcoming nuptials and savor your time in Savannah!
My friends and I will be in Savannah next weekend May 15-18 and we would love to spend an evening here. We are 3 very polite Canadian girls….Is there someone we can contact/beg/bribe/cajole to obtain a key to admission??? Pretty Please???
LOL!! Here’s what I have written about getting a key, but bribing the doorman may be the best idea 😉
“So far, the only ways that I have heard of people being successful at getting a key, other than from the innkeepers mentioned above, are through the concierge at a hotel, from a local shopkeeper and from asking a local friend. Though it may also be worth a shot to ask a pedicab driver or beg the doorman! It seems that someone in Savannah will know someone with a key.”
Best of luck!
Great article, blog on Mata Hari…do you know their hours?
These are the posted hours, not totally certain if they are correct.
Mon – Closed
Tue – Closed
Wed – 10:00 pm – 3:00 am
Thu – 9:00 pm – 3:00 am
Fri – 9:00 pm – 3:00 am
Sat – 9:00 pm – 3:00 am
Sun – Closed
I have a group of people wanting to try this place out on Saturday night. The inns didn’t know what I was talking about. How do I get a key for this weekend?
Planning to go tonight! Have key and hoping to have fun!
Let us all know how it was and how you got a key 🙂
How did you get your key? We are wanting to have a date night this Friday there before headed back to TN. Would you help me please?
Many Blessings
My husband and I are headed there this weekend to celebrate our anniversary, hoping to find a key! Any suggestions??
The only suggestions i have are all listed in the post or comments. But, I’m hoping that someone who has been successful recently, will post an answer to that question here. Have a great time!
I had absinthe in WIlliamsburg…not wonderful to me, but glad I tried it. AND we are going to Savannah tomorrow for 4 days and I hope I can score a key!!!
I feel the same about absinthe. It’s not a drink I’ll order every time I go out, but happy to say I’ve tried it! Have fun in Savannah!
My husband and I are visiting Savannah for the first time this coming weekend (July 11-13th). My curiosity is aroused on this speakeasy. Please tell me how to get in. It sounds so fun.
Unfortunately, the only ways I know how to get a key are listed in the article or in the comments. Some, folks have listed some more tips. It seems that most people have been somehow successful and, from what I have heard, I think it may be easier to get in now that they have a burlesque show by just saying you are there for the show.
When I looked this place up on a map it says it is permanently closed? Is this just false information so it stays secret?
What is the dress code?
When I was there is was casual trendy. A nice pair of jeans and cute top worked fine.
I’m ready..I will wear what ever or not wear at all if you like.. You sound like my kind of people.. been here 3 years and have been dying to find the same intelligence, oddity, sarcasm, and lust for it never to end.
Please may I have a key?
I need a key for timight!!! Im visiting. Can anyone help?
Going tonight! First time! Wife and I can’t wait! Details to come.
Let us all know how it was!!
Hi Tyler – Please tell how you secured a key? I am here with husband visiting until Aug 30. Would love to take him here!
PLEASE EMAIL ME THE DETAILS!!! My boyfriends birthday is Thursday. PLEASE PLEASE
Shaneandrae8589@gmail.com
My boyfriends birthday is coming up and I would LOVE to take him on this adventure. Please help me get a key so we can experience this. Shaneandrae8589@gmail.com
Subject: Absinthe
Would love to hear from those who found a key and how or where
We are visiting the weekend of October 1st for my boyfriends birthday and would LOVE to take him here.
Any help to find a key would be greatly appreciated!! He has always wanted to go to this type of place.
I am willing to work to find it.
My soon to be wife and I are honeymooning in Savannah 10/06/16 any if anyone has a local friend willing to hook up some newlyweds please let me know!
ElijahFischer@outlook.com
There is a Groupon available at the moment…
Help a desperate man out with a unique way to pop the big question. If anyone can help me bdsnellings25@hotmail.com
I need a key for this weekend. The wife and I are coming to town for the New Year.
Hello, I don’t know if anyone is still active on this post but I am bringing my boyfriend into town for his birthday. It will be our first vacation together officially. I would love to take him here to create a unique experience that we will remember for years to come! If anyone could help out I would greatly appreciate it! the_realginger@yahoo.com
Anybody out there wanna help some girls out on A Girls Weekend Trip with a key??? We’re here thru Sun and what a trip it would be if we could get in a speakeasy.
My husband and I are looking for a much needed getaway. We will be in Savannah from Wednesday March 22 until 3/24 and I’m desperate to find a key to take him to the speakeasy. Please help!
Coming to Savannah for Memorial Day weekend, Fri – Mon 2017, and would love to find a key to a speakeasy. Lots of posts about looking for one, but no one is fessing up where to find one!!!! Is anyone willing to help a damsel in need? We are staying at a major hotel chain, not at an Inn. Any clues would be appreciated.
Is there a burlesque show tomorrow? 6/28/17?
Husband and I are going to Savannah the weekend of the 25th for our anniversary, would love to visit a speakeasy.. has anyone had any luck getting a key?
I’m in town with my husband visiting his daughter For Christmas i would love to visit this establishment can someone please help me with a key I will pay sulfridge122@gmail.com
My wife and I are staying at the Gastonian towards the end of March. They provide a key to Mata Hari’s when you check-in or you can use your room key to gain access. Just ask.
That you for sharing!! You don’t know how many people will be happy to know this!!!
My husband and I are staying at The Gastonian this weekend for his 41st. Thanks so much for the heads up that they have a key!
Going to Savannah April 26 -29 for an annual girls trip …already booked a house but would love a key to go to Mata Hari’s…any suggestions would be appreciated. shindigz4you@yahoo.com
Has anyone that has commented above found a way to get a key?
My husband and I will be in Savannah March 2018 for a wedding. We’re planning to come early to celebrate my birthday as well. We don’t have many opportunities to get away and I know my husband would love to go to the Mata Hari. We’ve already rented a house but would love to get a key. If anyone can help, please let me know: cookingoodcherokee@yahoo.com
Going for my honeymoon to savannah on aug 5-7 any info would be greatly appreciate
Going for my honeymoon to savannah on aug 5-7 any info would be greatly appreciate I think my husband would really like this other tips and tricks for our trip would be appreciated
Thank you in advanced
Will be in Savannah Aug, 25-27 for my partners 37th birthday trying to find a key to surprise her with. Can someone please help me out? Or can i just pay the doorman?
open flap, flip switch for entry!
I’m going to Savannah soon in less then a month. I would love to try and if I am ever so lucky to try, will share my experience here.
Bringing my sister here this weekend for her Bachelorette, if we can find a key! Any info would be SO greatly appreciated!! andipietro48@gmail.com
My husband and I are coming to Savannah for our two year late honeymoon and I would LOVE to surprise him with entry to Mata Hari. Any help would be appreciated as we don’t have the money to stay at the inns listed above.
[…] Image: Bucket List Journey […]
My wife and I are going to Savannah Jan 18th to 21st and would love to get a key for Mata Hari’s Any help would be greatly appreciated. troybishop68@yahoo.com