Cool yet kid-friendly hotel in SF?
My husband is turning 40 soon and doesn't want a big celebration, but would rather just do something with the family (me and two kids, ages 10 and 12). I'm thinking of planning a surprise where the kids and I kidnap him after work, take him out to dinner, and then stay for one night at a hotel in San Francisco (we live in the East Bay). He's an architect and appreciates interesting design, so I'd love to find a place that is really cool or unique that would also not be weird about us bringing kids there. Bonus if it has a bar that we can slip out to for an hour while the kids watch TV in the room. Any ideas? I'm from the area, so I've never thought to look into SF hotels before, but I would love any suggestions. Thanks in advance :)
Parent Replies
Any of the Joie de Vivre hotels fit your description! I also recommend the Handlery Hotel (they have an indoor pool!).
We have stayed at the Courtyard Marriot at Fisherman's Wharf. Its on Beach Street. We liked it for its location. Its walking distance to all the attractions, which are literally around the corner. Starbucks is nearby. The rooms were clean, staff very friendly. Not sure if it has a bar area however:) Hope that helps!
The Argonaut in Fishermans Wharf is great for families. Kids under 17 are free and there is complimentary hot chocolate and wine in the afternoon/evening. The architecture is interesting -- it's in an historic warehouse -- and has some nautical touches like round windows in the rooms. The staff are great with kids and pets and the location can't be beat.
http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/argonaut-hotel-reviews/hrv/
We love the Hotel Vitale. Hip great location. They give a discount for local residents. Haven't taken the kids but I think it would be fun. You could go to Slanted Door to eat or other places I the Ferry Building. Great idea.
What about the St. Regis San Francisco (on 3rd, next to SFMOMA). They have a pool on their top floor, so kids should love that, and a bar on the ground floor. Extra bonus: if you book this hotel through a travel agent affiliated with Virtuoso, you get some added value amenities:
Sheraton Palace the other Montgomery BART stop .
Has an amazing dining room with super high ceiling chandeliers etc. fun to look at .
The hotel has a nice indoor pool and a sauna. I think any place with a pool expects kids and the kids will enjoy the pool . The big question is if you can find a deal on some website or if you have anyway to get a discount sometime state employees discounts etc. available . One suggestion anyway. Good luck
Cavallo Point, just over the Golden Gate Bridge, has views of the bridge and bay. Murray Circle is a nice bar there. Nice little spa there as well.