Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Rising proudly above San Francisco’s skyline, Columbus Tower is more than steel and glass—it’s a symbol of vision and freedom. From its panoramic view, the Golden Gate Bridge stretches like a ribbon across the bay, while the Pacific breeze reminds you: this city doesn’t just welcome you, it sets you free.
Everything you need to know about Columbus Tower
Hotel Zephyr is a top choice for panoramic views, offering unobstructed vistas of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge from its floor-to-ceiling windows. Located just a 5-minute walk from Columbus Tower, it blends modern design with historic charm. Another excellent option is West Coast Inn, which provides compact yet stylish rooms with city views, ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Both hotels are within walking distance to Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf, ensuring easy access to major attractions. Guests also enjoy complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and 24-hour concierge service.
For luxury seekers, The Fairmont San Francisco offers a rooftop terrace with sweeping views of the city skyline—perfect for sunset cocktails.
Near Columbus Tower, explore historic Union Square, where daily farmers’ markets showcase local produce and artisan goods. Visit the San Francisco Public Library, renowned for its grand reading room and rare book collection. Take a guided tour of the City Hall, an architectural masterpiece featuring a stunning dome and neoclassical façade. For photographers, stroll along Columbus Avenue at sunrise or golden hour to capture reflections on the bay and iconic skyline. Don’t miss the Muni Metro Light Rail, which runs past the tower and connects you to key destinations like Fisherman’s Wharf and the Embarcadero in under 15 minutes.
The fastest way is to take the Muni Metro 30 or 38 bus from Union Square Station, just a 2-minute walk from Columbus Tower. The ride takes about 10 minutes and costs only $3. Alternatively, rent a Bay Wheels bike near the tower and cycle along the scenic waterfront path—approximately 15 minutes. For a more relaxed journey, walk the 1.2 km (15-minute) route via Market Street and Hyde Street, passing through vibrant neighborhoods and street performers. All options offer great views of the bay and cityscape.
Yes, nearly all hotels near Columbus Tower offer complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, including Hotel Zephyr and West Coast Inn, both providing reliable, fast connections throughout rooms and common areas. Many upscale properties use Wi-Fi 6 technology with dedicated bandwidth for streaming and video calls. Public spaces like lobbies and cafés also feature free hotspots. Some hotels even include guest-only networks for enhanced security. Always confirm connectivity details when HopeGoo, especially if traveling for business or remote work.
Absolutely. Children’s Museum of San Francisco in Union Square offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities perfect for kids aged 2–12. Nearby Union Square Park features playgrounds, fountains, and open green space—ideal for family picnics. The San Francisco Opera House hosts family-friendly performances on weekends, combining storytelling with music and visuals. For longer outings, take the Muni Metro to Golden Gate Park, home to the California Academy of Sciences, Japanese Tea Garden, and de Young Museum, all offering engaging, educational experiences for children and adults alike.
Enjoy live jazz at The Back Room in Union Square, a cozy venue known for its nightly performances and craft cocktails. Visit the San Francisco Public Library during its special evening tours, highlighting illuminated architecture and historical archives. Stroll down Hyde Street to discover lively restaurants, boutique shops, and sidewalk artists. At night, Columbus Tower itself glows with ambient lighting, creating a striking silhouette against the city skyline—ideal for photography. Some hotels offer nighttime city tours by electric shuttle, showcasing San Francisco’s glittering lights and harbor views.
See what other travelers say about Columbus Tower
The property itself is a great stay overall—located right in downtown San Francisco, just steps from MUNI transit lines and surrounded by safe, walkable neighborhoods. I stayed nearly three weeks and really enjoyed the space, kitchen amenities, and cozy lounge area. It feels more like a home away from home than a typical hotel. That said, there's no on-site staff, so any issues aren’t addressed immediately. For example, late one evening around 7 PM, water started dripping from above into my closet. I reported it via text, and while they did call back to assist, the situation ended up requiring me to clean up the mess myself. They offered a room change, but with only two nights left, relocating wasn’t practical. So I had to manage it on my own. If you're looking for quick service, daily housekeeping, or immediate support, this might not be the best fit. But if you value independence, quiet comfort, and a central location without the usual hotel noise, this place delivers. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer self-sufficiency and don’t mind handling small hiccups personally.
Staying at Podshare San Francisco Marina was a fantastic experience. The modern design of the sleeping pods creates a cozy, private atmosphere—perfect for a good night's rest. I was impressed by how clean and well-maintained everything was, and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from public transit and downtown attractions. It’s an ideal choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet comfortable stay in San Francisco. Would definitely recommend and come back again.
Staying at Calista Organic Hotel was an absolutely delightful experience! The location is perfect—just a short walk from downtown San Francisco, with easy access to public transit and plenty of local cafes, boutiques, and hidden gems nearby. The hotel’s design embraces a natural, eco-friendly vibe with organic materials and calming tones throughout—so peaceful and refreshing. My room was spotless, cozy, and well-appointed, with excellent soundproofing that made for a truly restful night's sleep. The staff were warm, attentive, and genuinely went the extra mile—especially appreciated the complimentary local organic snacks they offered. It’s clear this place values sustainability and guest comfort. If you’re looking for a serene yet centrally located stay in SF, this is a must-try. I’ll definitely be back!
Staying at this hostel in San Francisco was a great experience overall. The location is super convenient—just a short walk from the BART and close to downtown, making it easy to explore the city. I was really happy with the value for money—especially considering the price, you get a clean, comfortable bed in a well-maintained space. The common areas are spacious and actually feel welcoming, with a fully equipped kitchen where I could cook my own meals—huge plus for budget travelers. The front desk staff were friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with tips or recommendations. One thing to note: check-out time is only between 9–10 AM, so if you're leaving early, make sure to plan ahead—late check-out will result in losing your $20 cash deposit, which must be paid in cash. That said, it’s a small trade-off for such a solid stay. Definitely recommend for solo travelers or groups looking for a no-frills but cozy base in the heart of SF.
This backpacker hostel is a hidden gem in San Francisco—small but full of charm and great energy. Even though it's compact, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it easy to connect with fellow travelers. The owner is super friendly and organizes daily activities like local tours, game nights, and group dinners, so you never feel alone on your trip. Rooms are clean, well-maintained, and the shared spaces are always tidy—definitely above average for a hostel. It’s perfectly located near public transit, just a short ride from major attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf and Golden Gate Bridge. Bonus: there’s a fantastic Hunan restaurant right downstairs—authentic flavors and great value. Just mention the hostel name when ordering, and you’ll get a discount! If you’re looking for an affordable, social, and well-run stay in SF, this place is absolutely worth booking. I’d definitely come back.
Staying at HI San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf Hostel was an absolute highlight of my trip! Located right on a hilltop, the hostel offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the city just a short walk down to Fort Mason Park. The nearby Safeway is only about 8 minutes away—perfect for grabbing essentials without having to go far. I especially loved the Equator Coffee shop just around the corner; great coffee and a cozy vibe. My bunk bed was surprisingly comfortable, and the hostel provided clean towels and sheets—no extra hassle. The staff were friendly, helpful, and always ready to assist. If I ever return to this area, I’d definitely book here again—great location, excellent amenities, and unbeatable value. Plus, Fisherman’s Wharf is just a 15–20 minute walk downhill, making it easy to explore all the sights. There are plenty of charging stations in the lobby, and near the Franco café area, there’s a dedicated desk space with multiple outlets—ideal for travelers working or staying connected. Overall, this hostel delivers comfort, convenience, and a welcoming atmosphere. A top pick for any budget-conscious traveler visiting San Francisco!
At 66, this was my first time staying at a hostel—and I’m amazed by how welcoming everyone was and how clean and comfortable the rooms are. We booked an en-suite room with crisp white towels, fresh bedding on a wonderfully comfy bed, and daily housekeeping made sure everything stayed spotless. Located just around the corner from Union Square, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring downtown San Francisco—walking distance to shops, restaurants, and all major transit options. The location is unbeatable, and the value for money is outstanding. Huge thanks to the friendly staff at check-in—they made our arrival smooth and stress-free.
Staying at The Bartlett Hotel and Guesthouse was a fantastic experience overall. The room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and thoughtfully decorated—perfect for a relaxing getaway. I especially appreciated the convenient location; it's just a short walk from downtown San Francisco, with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. The only minor inconvenience was that check-in and package pickup both take place at a sister property, which caused a bit of confusion when receiving mail or deliveries. However, this is a small trade-off considering how well-maintained and charming the hotel itself is. With excellent service, comfort, and location, it’s definitely a top choice for travelers looking for a cozy yet stylish stay in San Francisco.
I was able to check in last minute, which was a lifesaver since I didn’t book ahead. The check-in time was set for after 10 AM, but I woke up early and was ready to go—no big deal. The hostel is super convenient, just a short walk from major attractions and transit hubs. Clean rooms, friendly staff, and great vibes overall. Definitely worth staying at if you're visiting San Francisco on a tight schedule.
Ram's Hotel is an absolute gem in San Francisco! I was pleasantly surprised by how clean, quiet, and well-located it is—just steps away from major attractions and great local spots. I’ll be honest, I was a bit nervous about the neighborhood at first, but honestly, every big city has its challenges. The staff were incredibly kind and helpful throughout my stay—always smiling, always ready to assist. Parking isn’t available, but that’s not a problem if you’re using rideshares or public transit (which works really well here). Just keep your wits about you, as you would in any urban area—whether it’s Seattle, LA, or even Europe. The rooms are spotless, with excellent cleanliness standards. One tip: if you tend to get chilly at night, turn on the heater or just ask for extra blankets—the team will gladly help. Overall, this place offers fantastic value, comfort, and peace of mind. I’d stay here again in a heartbeat.
We booked a 5-night stay at El Capitan Hotel, but we couldn’t even make it through one night after seeing our room. The fridge was rotten, the bedding was filthy and falling apart, and we found bed bugs—so bad that we ended up sleeping fully dressed just to avoid contact. The bathroom was in total unsanitary condition; honestly, showering in a sewer would’ve felt cleaner. We’re not exaggerating—we truly meant it. If you’re unsure where to sleep, even camping outside would be better than staying here. Avoid this place at all costs. This is not a hotel for anyone seeking comfort or hygiene. Save yourself the misery.
Staying at Green Tortoise Hostel was a fantastic experience! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the main attractions and right next to the BART station, making it super easy to explore San Francisco. The dorm rooms are clean, well-organized, and surprisingly quiet for a hostel. The beds were comfortable, and I slept really well. The staff were friendly and helpful, offering great local tips that made our trip even better. What really stood out was the value—affordable rates without compromising on quality or comfort. It’s perfect for budget travelers who still want a welcoming, social atmosphere. I’d definitely recommend this place to anyone visiting SF, especially solo travelers or backpackers looking for a memorable stay.
Explore more amazing destinations