From a cinematic icon to a jazz age gem reimagined, San Francisco’s hotels seamlessly blend past and present
San Francisco is home to some of the country’s oldest hotels, reflective of the city’s eclectic history and unique charm. Steeped in historic grandeur, these timeless properties weave in modern amenities whilst providing visitors with an insight into the city’s storied past.
See some of San Francisco Travel Association’s top picks for historic hotels below:
A Jazz Age Gem Reimagined: The Beacon Grand Hotel
Originally opened as The Sir Francis Drake Hotel in 1928, the Beacon Grand Hotel stands as a shining remnant of the Jazz Age, transporting visitors to the glamour and vibrancy of 20th-century San Francisco. Renowned in the early days for its groundbreaking amenities – such as ice water on tap and cutting-edge radios in every room – the hotel quickly became a hotspot for Hollywood celebrities and politicians.
After an extensive renovation in 2022, The Beacon Grand Hotel incorporates timeless grandeur with modern comforts, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. Remarkably, many of its original 1920s features and storied past have been preserved, including bullet holes dented into the upper lobby ceiling which were left by an overjoyed father celebrating his daughter’s wedding. In 2023, the hotel’s iconic 21st-floor Starlite Room opened, dazzling guests with breathtaking views across the city, a retro Art Deco ambiance and cocktails inspired by the city’s renowned icons.
A Cinematic Revival of San Francisco’s Past: Hotel Julian
Found in the heart of San Francisco, the newly reopened Hotel Julian is famous for its role in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1958 masterpiece Vertigo. The hotel’s connection to the iconic thriller makes it a must-visit for cinephiles and history buffs alike, and its recent transformation ensures its legacy endures with style and sophistication.
After undergoing a comprehensive renovation in 2024, the hotel reopened its doors on 1st October with a fresh identity and a contemporary charm. The rebirth of the property honours its mid-20th-century architecture blended with modern updates, including completely redesigned guest rooms, a revitalised lobby, and an intimate meeting space for social and business gatherings. In November, the property expanded its offerings with the debut of a new bar and restaurant, providing guests with a stylish setting to unwind while immersed in the hotel’s rich history.
Celebrating 120 Years of Timeless Elegance: The Westin St. Francis
Since opening its doors in 1904, The Westin St. Francis has been the centre of the city’s social, literary and artistic lifestyle, as the only hotel located directly on the vibrant and bustling Union Square. Over its storied history, the hotel has witnessed countless moments of triumph and challenge. It endured the devastating 1906 earthquake and the fires that followed, emerging as a symbol of resilience. During this time, the wine steward’s fox terrier was discovered in the basement amid the wreckage. Named Francis in honour of the hotel, the little dog became a beloved emblem of its miraculous survival.
In 2024, The Westin St. Francis celebrated its 120th anniversary, standing as proud and timeless as ever. Marking the occasion, the hotel underwent a stunning restoration including the newly updated Windsor suite where Queen Elizabeth stayed, and the debut of the Westin Club lounge for Marriott Bonvoy members – featuring preserved original ceiling moldings from 1906.
Commemorating 150 years of Historic Grandeur: The Palace Hotel
San Francisco’s historic Palace Hotel was originally built in 1875, marking this as the city’s first premier luxury hotel and the largest in the world at the time. Hailed as an architectural marvel, the original structure boasted Beaux-Arts furnishings and opulent chandeliers, before being struck by an earthquake in 1906.
Rebuilt in 1909, the new Palace Hotel has retained its iconic grandeur and historic charm whilst blending modern luxury. A notable feature of this full-service resort is the breathtaking Garden Court dining room, crowned with an ornate stained-glass dome and flanked by Italian marble columns, remaining a favourite spot for guests looking to experience the grandeur of 20th-century fine dining. The hotel’s cultural legacy also draws in art enthusiasts to the Pied Piper Bar, its name coined by the iconic mural by artist Maxfield Parrish displayed on its walls, and generations of notable figures, including American writer and adventurer Mark Twain, have visited over the years.
As the Palace Hotel approaches its 150th anniversary next year, it will commemorate this milestone with a series of exciting updates and upgrades, ensuring its status as a renowned Beaux-Arts landmark.
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