Established by Gold Rush seekers and a haven for hippies in the 1960s, San Francisco has always been aspirational and a bit rebellious. Its grand architecture, stunning natural beauty and tech economy make it feel both old and new—classic but constantly changing. Travelers come to visit landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge (seeing the bridge’s vermillion towers poking out of the misty fog is a sight to behold) and sample the city’s ever-evolving culinary scene.
The city’s popularity as a tourist destination has brought a diverse array of hotels to the dense metropolis, from quirky boutique inns to luxurious skyscrapers near the Embarcadero. Our choices for the best hotels in San Francisco include a bed and breakfast channeling the English countryside and a swank hotel for techies and start-up CEOs.
Best Staycation: Inn at the Presidio
for an escape within an escape: inn at presidio
Who Will Love It: Locals looking for a staycation; travelers who would rather have peace and quiet than bells and whistles.
All-Star Amenities:Continental breakfast; evening wine and cheese reception; gas fireplaces in rooms; outdoor fire pit.
What Not To Miss: Relaxing on the covered porch; checking out new Battery Bluff park; a walk on the eucalyptus-scented Ecology Trail steps from the hotel.
One of San Francisco’s many jewels, the 1500-acre Presidio National Park has hiking trails, a sandy beach and a lovely hotel. The Inn at the Presidio is in an elegant Georgian Revival-style building that would have been a home for bachelor officers when the park was a U.S. Army Post. Guest rooms feel slightly New England with dark leather chairs and ottomans, crisp white walls and navy-striped pillows. Natural play areas (like the new Battery Bluff) and wide lawns for picnicking make this a great option for families who want to be close but not too close to tourist attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf and the Walt Disney Family Museum. The Inn at the Presidio offers such a sublime respite from city life you’ll be vying with locals for a booking.
