If you're a Kimpton hotel chain fan, you'll have nine choices in San Francisco. The chain has multiple locations on Union Square as well as properties at Fisherman's Wharf and the Financial District. San Francisco's golf scene includes the municipal Harding Park, which hosted the 2009 President's Cup, the exclusive Olympic Club, which has hosted several U.S. Opens, and the public course at the Presidio, which has great elevation changes and stunning views.
Union Square
The Kimpton chain has six hotels on Union Square, San Francisco's key shopping and tourism district. Among the properties is the Sir Francis Drake, which is housed in a historic building and features the retro Harry Denton's Starlight Room on its top floor. The opulence of the Drake is apparent when you walk in the door to a lobby with marble floors, frescoes and giant floral arrangements. Guest rooms are similarly appointed with high-end linens and furnishings. The hotel, which opened in 1928, offers in-room spa services and has a workout room. Scala's Bistro offers French and Italian fare in a Paris-bistro setting.
Sir Francis Drake
450 Powell St.
San Francisco, CA 94102
(800) 795-7129
www.sirfrancisdrake.com
Fisherman's Wharf
The Kimpton chain has two hotels in the Fisherman's Wharf district--the Argonaut and the Tuscan Inn. The Argonaut is a boutique hotel on the waterfront with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. The hotel is housed in the historic Haslett Warehouse at The Cannery. Amenities include in-room spa services and on-site workout facilities. The Tuscan Inn, which is owned by Kimpton but is part of the Best Western chain, offers a more value-priced alternative. The hotel has the feel of an Italian villa and offers free wireless Internet, a daily wine hour and has been selected for Conde Nast's Best Places to Stay list.
Argonaut Hotel
495 Jefferson St.
San Francisco, CA 94109
(866) 415-0704
argonauthotel.com
Tuscan Inn
425 N. Point St.
San Francisco, CA 94133
(800) 648-4626
tuscaninn.com
Financial District
Located at the Embarcadero, this boutique property is sophisticated and contemporary. The hotel has views of the Bay Bridge, Treasure Island and San Francisco Bay. Adjacent to the historic YMCA (where guests may enjoy discounted privileges), the hotel offers in-room spa services. There is no restaurant on site, but the hotel is next door to the Ozumo Sushi Bar and within walking distance of other dining options. There is a hosted evening wine hour.
Harbor Court Hotel
165 Steuart St.
San Francisco, CA 94105
(415) 882-1300
harborcourthotel.com
About The Author
J.D. Chi is a professional journalist who has covered sports for more than 20 years at newspapers all over the United States. She has covered major golf tournaments and the NFL as well as travel and health topics. Chi received her Bachelor of Arts in professional writing from Carnegie Mellon University and is working toward a master's degree in journalism.
