Quiet, But In the Thick of It, The Inn at Union Square

Many hotels in San Francisco are associated with a big chain brand. They tend to be large properties, spread across numerous floors, and offer a large number of city-sized (also known as small) rooms. But for those guests who aren’t fans of needing days to learn their way around a hotel, San Francisco is also home to The Inn at Union Square.

Located just steps from bustling Union Square, the property’s location is ideal. Although some rooms offer views of Union Square, the property is just far enough away to be out of the heavy pedestrian traffic, but at the same time close enough to easily join the crowds when you want in. The Inn at Union Square features 30 guestrooms, including the Superior King Suite and Spreckels Suite. Every floor has a public parlor with a comfy sitting area. An assortment of amenities vary from floor to floor but include the likes of wood burning fireplaces, board games, filtered water, ice machines, and refrigerators. There is a small elevator, but with only six floors, the old stairways provide a workout with a twist of old San Francisco charm and personality.

Superior Queen rooms, the property’s standard equivalent, offer everything you’d expect from a sophisticated San Francisco hotel. With a modern feel, a color palette of greys and whites, and windows that open to let in natural light and fresh air, it’s a comfortable space for two guests. Electrical plugs and USB ports are easily accessible, there’s a small sitting area with plush chair, a refrigerator, and the bathroom is lined with Carrara marble.

A splurge for many, the Spreckels Suite, comes with more space than many San Francisco apartments. The living area features a sofa, chair, wood burning fireplace, television and bar sink, in addition to a half bath.

Large windows provide a great deal of light and ventilation in both the living area and the spacious bedroom. (Though rarely needed in San Francisco, The Inn at Union Square does not have air conditioning. Every room has a ceiling fan.) Along with a king bed, there is a second television, and the refrigerator is tucked out of sight, in a dresser.

The spa-like master bath with Carrara marble boasts a two person shower with body sprays, and vanity with dual sink, along with a separate makeup counter and seat.

There’s no restaurant onsite, but food of just about every variety you can think of, is in walking distance. Room service is available during dinner hours from neighboring Morton’s The Steakhouse. A complimentary breakfast buffet is served every morning from 7am to 10am. Along with coffee, tea and fresh squeezed orange juice, there is a selection of pastries, yogurt, cereal and fruit.

A wine and cheese reception takes place daily from 5:30pm to 7pm, and jars full of chocolate chip cookies are put out in the parlors each evening. There are no in-room coffee makers, but complimentary tea and coffee is available on the second floor from 6am to 11pm daily.

The property’s location makes seeing San Francisco’s popular shopping area is a given, but it also serves as a good starting point to explore other neighborhoods. Public transportation, including buses, street cars, and cable cars, is plentiful. Chinatown is about a half-mile walk.

Superior Queen rooms range from $189 to $689. The Spreckels Suite ranges from $409 to $909. Families are welcome at The Inn at Union Square, but there are no double rooms. Wi-Fi is complimentary. Valet parking costs $60. Make your reservation directly at the hotel website or go through a site like Hotels.com or Travelocity.

Review and photos by Dana Rebmann. Her stay was hosted by The Inn at Union Square, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.