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No hotel embodies San Francisco’s unique spirit better than this boho-leaning French Quarter retreat.
In fact, the property is like an art gallery, with most of the 43 rooms and public spaces dressed up by a rotating roster of international artists (including several from the Bay Area).
The hotel can feel borderline hostel-like – especially since rooms are on the small side and some have shared baths. But this is ground zero if character is what you’re after.
It’s in a lovely central location, across from Chinatown’s entrance and blocks from Union Square.
The picturesque French Quarter (also known as Belden Place) is an atmospheric slice of San Francisco, with tiny alleyways and French brasseries. It’s also centrally-located, and a Chinatown entrance is across the street from the hotel, while Union Square is a few blocks away.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
San Francisco, California, United States of America (USA)[0.4 miles]
One of the world’s best Chinese New Year celebrations, held in the oldest Chinatown in North America. The highlight is the Chinese New Year parade, complete with a 28-foot-long golden dragon.
Best for ages: 6+ | Free | 2.5 weeks
San Francisco, California, United States of America (USA)[0.6 miles]
One of the largest museums for modern and contemporary art on the planet, with seven floors packed with more than 33,000 works ranging from abstract paintings to Depression-era photographs.
Best for ages: 13+ | £20
San Francisco, California, United States of America (USA)[1.1 miles]
A historic transit centre turned food artisan marketplace that’s one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
San Francisco, California, United States of America (USA)[1.8 miles]
Marketers call Lombard the world’s crookedest street. True or not, the block-long lane hits eight hairpin turns – built to slow people as they drive the steep-steep street – as it snakes down Russian Hill. Instead of driving it (and sitting in traffic), you’ll have more fun walking it.
Best for ages: 6+ | Free
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
San Francisco, California, United States of America (USA)[0.5 miles]
There’s nothing better than sipping sugary mai tais in a dimly lit tiki setting, where an indoor thunderstorm occurs hourly on cue. With red leather banquettes, a floating stage with its own house band, and a dance floor created from a former schooner, the Fairmont’s historic Tonga Room has been drawing crowds since 1945. Weekend nights here are like the greatest wedding reception you’ve ever been to, times 10.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
San Francisco, California, United States of America (USA)[0.5 miles]
With no permanent collection, San Francisco’s CJM offers ever-changing exhibits highlighting the Jewish culture and its complexities. It’s housed in a historic Pacific Gas & Electric substation that’s been modernly redesigned with elements of Jewish symbolism.
Best for ages: 18+ | £12
San Francisco, California, United States of America (USA)[0.5 miles]
Celebrating black cultures around the world through a global lens, MoAD remains one of the few museums in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to the artworks of the African Diaspora. Artist discussions, literary events, and film screenings take place here regularly.
Best for ages: 13+ | £8
San Francisco, California, United States of America (USA)[1.1 miles]
Three days a week, the Ferry Building hosts this, one of San Francisco’s best markets. Every morning to mid-afternoon on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, more than 100 local purveyors set up shop offering top-quality, locally-grown produce.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
California, United States of America (USA)
Beautiful bayside city with home-grown authenticity, charmingly unique neighbourhoods and excellent locally-driven food.
