By R.L. Cultrona
When it comes to hotels, few cities offer the diversity of
San Francisco. While the city does have its fair share of chain hotels, it also offers some quality alternatives to the popular hotel giants. Charming boutique hotels and small independent properties dot the city; you just have to know where to look.
The Inn San Francisco
Built in 1872, this beautiful Victorian Mansion is fully restored and features ornate woodwork, marble fireplaces and original stained glass. Upon entering the Mansion you will be instantly transported back in time. Vases of fresh flowers grace every surface and classical music wafts through the air. The Mansion is privately owned and the knowledgeable Innkeepers are at the ready to provide you with information about the city and sightseeing tips. Rooms are decorated with comfort in mind, and most have private bathrooms. Some rooms feature whirlpool or claw-foot tubs and fireplaces. Rooms feature telephone, TV and complimentary WiFi. You can also relax with a complimentary sherry in the parlor in the evenings after a long day of touring the city.
The Inn San Francisco
943 South Van Ness Avenue
San Francisco, CA94110
Tel: (415) 641-0188
Fax: (415) 641-1701
www.innsf.com
The Mosser
Originally opened in 1913 as the Keystone Hotel, this property has been a San Francisco secret for almost 100 years. The hotel was fully renovated and renamed The Mosser in 2003. The hotel combines classic Victorian architecture with contemporary design for an experience that is as eclectic as it is comfortable. Conveniently located between Union Square and the Moscone Convention Center, guests are steps away from shops, tours and nightlife. It features 112 deluxe rooms with private bathrooms and 54 economical rooms with shared baths. Their on-site restaurant, Annabelle's, reminds you of classic San Francisco. It features farm direct, organic ingredients. Even during peak tourist season the room rates at The Mosser are hard to beat, and this piece of San Francisco history is definitely worth a try.
The Mosser Hotel
54 Fourth St.
San Francisco, CA 94103
Tel: (415) 986-4400
Fax: (415) 495-7653
www.themosser.com
Hotel Drisco
If you love San Francisco--yet are looking for a quieter place to rest your head--consider Hotel Drisco in the Pacific Heights area of the city. Built in 1903, the hotel offers the comfort and convenience of a modern high end hotel while maintaining the character and traditional elegance of a B&B or European boutique property. Situated amongst million dollar estates in one of the city's most exclusive neighborhoods, Hotel Drisco makes guests feel they are staying at a private home rather than a hotel. Each of their 48 rooms are well appointed with upgraded linens, plush robes and slippers, and all the furnishings have been designed specifically for the hotel. Rooms feature HD televisions, complimentary DSL and honor bar. Although the hotel is not located near the city center, there is complimentary town car service to Union Square each weekday morning. All other points of interest are a quick cab ride away.
Hotel Drisco
2901 Pacific Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94115
Tel: (415)346-2880
Fax: (415) 567-5537
www.jdvhotels.com/hotels/sanfrancisco/drisco
About the Author:
R.L. Cultrona is a San Diego native and a graduate of San Diego State University. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in theater, television and film with a minor in communications and political science. She began writing online instructional articles in June 2009.