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Stroll down Van Ness Avenue, where San Francisco’s soul comes alive. More than just a street, it’s a vibrant mix of fashion, food, and art. From boutique shops and hidden coffee gems to local designers and bold street murals, every step feels like a discovery. As the sun sets, golden lights glow along the sidewalks—perfect for snapping that Instagram-worthy moment. This is the real heartbeat of the city.
Nestled in the heart of Union Square, this hotel seamlessly blends business and leisure. Just steps away from Lombard Street and Pier 39, its location can't be beat. Unwind at the fitness center or tranquil gardens after a day of exploration. All 401 rooms feature smart TVs and premium toiletries for a touch of luxury. With 3,276 sq ft of versatile event space, it's ideal for weddings or corporate gatherings. Cap off your night with craft cocktails at the chic bar – the perfect urban retreat.
Everything you need to know about Van Ness
The Fairmont San Francisco stands out for its iconic location just steps from Van Ness Avenue, offering panoramic views of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge from many rooms. This historic luxury hotel features elegant interiors, world-class service, and a prime position within walking distance to Union Square and cultural attractions. Its concierge team can arrange private tours, dining reservations, and transportation. Guests also enjoy access to a full-service spa, fine-dining restaurants, and exclusive rooftop terraces perfect for sunset views.
Van Ness Avenue lies at the heart of San Francisco, providing excellent transit access via Muni buses and Muni Metro light rail lines. The Embarcadero Trolley stops nearby, connecting directly to Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz Island, and Lands End. For a scenic walk, it's only a 15-minute stroll to Fisherman’s Wharf, passing through Nob Hill and Union Square, both rich in architecture and street life. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, making late-night or luggage-heavy travel convenient and efficient.
Near Van Ness Avenue, visitors can explore the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) and Fort Mason Center, which hosts rotating exhibitions, artist talks, and community events. The area is also known for its vibrant independent boutiques and artisan cafes offering handmade ceramics, vintage clothing, and curated books. During spring, the San Francisco Arts Festival takes place here, showcasing local and international talent. Evenings often feature live jazz performances at legendary spots like Caffè Trieste, capturing the city’s creative soul.
Hotel Zephyr is an ideal choice for families seeking comfort and convenience near Van Ness Avenue. It offers connecting rooms, complimentary cribs, and a dedicated kids’ activity kit including games and craft supplies. Located just a 5-minute walk from Union Square Park, children can safely play on the green lawns. The hotel also runs weekend family excursions, such as guided zoo visits and interactive workshops. With 24/7 front desk support and secure facilities, it ensures a stress-free stay for parents traveling with young ones.
Van Ness Avenue itself is a photogenic gem—especially during golden hour when sunlight glints off historic façades and brass doorknobs. Prime shooting locations include the fountain and monument in Union Square, and the Gothic spires of St. Bernard’s Church. The glass storefronts and vintage signage along the avenue create striking contrast and texture. For a sweeping urban vista, head to the top floor of City Hall (free public access), where you can capture the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Area skyline, and distant hills in one frame.
Beyond mainstream spots, Van Ness Avenue boasts several hidden culinary gems. Tartine Bakery serves daily-baked French pastries and the famed walnut chocolate cake, a must-try for dessert lovers. Nopa Restaurant offers innovative California-inspired cuisine using seasonal ingredients and artistic plating. For coffee enthusiasts, Birkenstock Coffee delivers small-batch, single-origin brews paired with house-made almond milk. These acclaimed but unadvertised eateries thrive on word-of-mouth, making them perfect for travelers seeking authentic, high-quality local flavors.
See what other travelers say about Van Ness
Staying at the San Francisco Marriott Union Square was an absolute delight from start to finish. The room was immaculate—spotless, well-maintained, and incredibly clean, which made the entire experience feel fresh and welcoming. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, attentive service; every request was handled with genuine care and efficiency. What really stood out was the daily $22 credit offered to guests—perfect for enjoying a delicious breakfast or dinner in-house without breaking the bank. Plus, each guest received a complimentary one-way cable car ticket, with the pickup point right across the street from the hotel (just past the Starbucks on the corner). Riding it all the way to Fisherman’s Wharf was such a fun and scenic way to explore the city. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable—Union Square is just a 2-minute walk away, and both Chinatown and Japantown are easily accessible on foot. There’s also a small convenience store right across the street from the hotel entrance, making late-night snacks or essentials super easy. One thing I appreciated deeply: the stretch between the hotel and Union Square feels noticeably safe, with almost no visible unhoused individuals—a huge plus for nighttime strolls. While I’d still recommend avoiding very late walks, it’s reassuring to know the area feels secure. Overall, this hotel delivers exceptional value, comfort, and peace of mind. Highly recommended for travelers who want a central, clean, and friendly base in San Francisco.
Although my original room type wasn’t available upon check-in, the hotel kindly upgraded me to two standard rooms at no extra cost—such a thoughtful gesture! The rooms were spotless, well-maintained, and had all the essentials: comfortable beds, modern fixtures, and quality toiletries. I appreciated the attention to detail and cleanliness throughout. Located just steps from the BART station, getting around San Francisco was super convenient. Great value for the price, excellent service, and a really welcoming atmosphere. Definitely will be returning next time I visit the city—highly recommend!
Staying at The Wharf Inn in San Francisco was an absolute delight. The room was spotless and clearly recently renovated—everything felt fresh, modern, and well-maintained. Located right near the waterfront, it's incredibly convenient for getting around; public transit access is excellent, making it easy to explore downtown and nearby attractions. The neighborhood feels safe and quiet, with very few people experiencing homelessness—a big plus for peace of mind. The staff were genuinely warm and helpful, always ready to assist with local tips or recommendations. This place offers a perfect blend of comfort, cleanliness, and location. It’s rare to find such a great value in a city like San Francisco. I’ll definitely be back.
The Lombard Inn is a solid choice if you're looking for a no-frills stay in San Francisco. The rooms are clean and the beds are surprisingly comfortable—perfect for a good night's rest. While the decor and furnishings feel a bit dated, they’re still functional and adequately maintained. One thing worth mentioning is that the hallways had a slight musty odor, likely due to the carpets needing a deep clean. That said, it’s an easy fix and doesn’t detract much from the overall experience. I’d recommend this hotel for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience over modern design. It’s a reliable option with great value, especially if you're on a budget.
We stayed in Glasgow for a few days and stopped by this hotel for breakfast—had no expectations going in, but was pleasantly surprised. The menu options were somewhat limited, but the warm welcome and excellent service from Thomas made all the difference. He went above and beyond to make our morning special. It’s a hidden gem with a welcoming vibe, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone passing through.
On Friday, April 21st at 10:15 AM, a guest from another building at the hotel climbed over the fence between units 179 and 173, entered our private driveway area, then climbed over our fence and left toward Wiese Street, heading toward 16th Street. We immediately called 911. The situation was alarming and unsettling. While police responded promptly, the incident raised serious concerns about property security and safety protocols. It's important to note that making assumptions based on someone's background is not only inappropriate but also harmful. As guests, we expect the hotel to maintain a secure environment for all. We hope management will take immediate action to improve fencing, surveillance, and overall safety measures to prevent future incidents.
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