Exclusive | San Francisco: Where to Stay Part Three

STYLE continued...

The Hotel Monaco (501 Geary St; 415-292-0100 or 866-622-5284; $299+), two blocks from Union Square, is one of the largest Kimpton properties, with 201 rooms and suites. The whimsical decor is loads of fun, but is not holding up so well. The hotel has a health club and a well-received restaurant, the Grand Café.

The Hotel Palomar (12 Fourth St; 415-348-1111 or 866-373-4941; $194+), located in the city's thriving SoMa District, is noted for its elegant style, fine architectural touches, thought-provoking artwork, and five-star service. The hotel's rooms begin five floors above the bustle of Market Street (above the Old Navy flagship store) in a gorgeously restored 1907 landmark building of green tiles designed to resemble a busty Victorian lady. The Palomar's restaurant, Fifth Floor (415-348-1555; $24-36) is one of San Francisco's hottest eateries, with advance reservations required.

The more whimsical Serrano Hotel (405 Taylor St; 415-885-2500 or 866-289-6561; $259+) is closer to San Francisco's downtown theater district yet still close to the area's many stores. The 236-room Serrano offers a warm and hospitable escape from the area?s hustle and bustle. The lobby's restored decorative style, complete with Moroccan flourishes, is worth a peek even if you aren?t a guest. Themed around games of the world, the Serrano is the only hotel we know of where you can order Monopoly or Mah Jongg with your room service. As in many boutique hotels, the standard rooms, however well appointed and comfortable, can feel small.

Part One | Part Two | Part Three | Part Four

San Francisco: Introduction
San Francisco: Where to Eat
San Francisco: Where to Play/Meet
San Francisco: What to See & Do
San Francisco: Where to Shop
San Francisco: Resources