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The grand dame of San Francisco hotels, the world-renowned Fairmont had the unfortunate fate of opening just weeks before the city’s devastating 1906 earthquake and fire. Thanks to famed architect Julia Morgan, the 544-guestroom property came back better than ever.
Perched atop the city’s landmark Nob Hill neighbourhood, the Fairmont offers a quintessential San Francisco experience. Explore the room where singer Tony Bennett first performed his signature San Francisco tune, sip Mai Tais at the hotel’s iconic Tonga Room tiki bar, or splurge on a hydrating body wrap at the new onsite spa. It’s all right here.
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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)[1.1 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)[1.3 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
San Francisco, California, United States of America (USA)[1.5 miles]
A historic transit centre turned food artisan marketplace that’s one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Best for ages: 13+ | 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 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)[0.9 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)[1 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)[1.2 miles]
Telegraph Hill, ascending 275 ft (84m), is crowned by Coit Tower, a mural-covered Art Deco column. An ascent on foot (via sidewalk and stairs) rewards with eye candy in many forms: gorgeous homes, gardens, and spectacular bay views from the observation deck at the tower’s top.
Best for ages: 8+ | 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.
