Harry Handlery, the founder of the Handlery Union Square Hotel in 1928, said it best when it comes to why this hotel stands out among the rest: "To have every guest not question why they stayed here, but to question why they didn't stay here before." Calling itself the "Premier Choice in San Francisco Lodging," the Handlery is located in always bustling and interesting Union Square in the heart of downtown San Francisco. As a family-owned hotel,the hotel has a very personal and warm atmosphere. Ideally located near main San Francisco attractions, including the world famous cable car right at the corner, the Handlery Union Square Hotel "sets the standard in affordable luxury."
Recommended for Family-Friendly Hotels because: Handlery is another great choice for families who want to stay near Union Square, a great hub of entertainment for the whole family.
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In a city where businesses elbow each other out of the way to be not the meanest but the greenest, The Orchard Hotel does set itself apart from the pack. Mixing classic boutique with urban contemporary, these accommodations offer that subtle touch that Mom and Dad want with that durable, practical quality that all family vacations need. Arched openings, vaulted ceilings and stone floorings with luxurious woods and bronzes create an opulent look that never forsakes good environmental stewardship. Valet parking, a concierge, and even an extensive CD/DVD library for those nights the kids just need to be tucked in and zoned out in front of the tube will round out your stay at one of the best family hotels in San Francisco.
Recommended for Family-Friendly Hotels because: The Orchard blends the sophisticated with the practical in a way that will make adults and kids very happy.
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Like the Westin, the Fairmont will just plain spoil everyone, no matter how young or old. In fact, the only reason it's not number one on this list is that it's probably not a practical option for most families. No matter - even if you don't stay at the Fairmont, bringing your family by the Fairmont, especially during the Christmas holidays to view their amazing gingerbread house, is a grand stop on any San Francisco visit. And be sure to take the family to the Tonga Room, which features its own indoor pond and boat, a treat for kids of all ages.
Recommended for Family-Friendly Hotels because: Even if you and your family don't stay at the Fairmont, it's worth a visit to see their legendary gingerbread house at Christmas.
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Galleria Park is another Union Square gem, coming in just slightly behind the San Francisco Hilton on Union Square. It's very hard to beat Galleria Park's location, right between the Financial District of San Francisco and the Moscone Convention Center, which offers bowling and a merry-go-round that is always a hit with kids. Crocker Galleria offers top-notch shopping opportunities, and the hotel even has a private park on the third floor. With so many fantastic hotels in the area, it might be the small differences that help make your final decision on your stay. For example, if the environment is important to you, Galleria Park really stands out with its "green-certification" for employing over 45 "eco-initiatives."
Recommended for Family-Friendly Hotels because: With its proximity to the Moscone Center, Galleria Park stands out as an excellent option for families.
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The Westin St. Francis has incredible San Francisco history and is one of those luxury hotels that will take care of anyone, no matter how young or old. And with a recent renovation, the classic traditional look of the Westin has been kept but upgraded with the most modern of conveniences. What makes Westin a possibility for families is their long-standing tradition to offer the best downtown rates, so, if you have the time, shop around and then bring your best rate to the Westin for them to try to beat or match. With 676 newly renovated luxury rooms and AAA Four Diamond rating, you won't regret your stay at the Westin St. Francis.
Recommended for Family-Friendly Hotels because: The Westin itself is an education in San Francisco history, so parents can fool their kids into learning, even in the middle of a vacation.
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Read more about The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square →
It's tough to get more central than Union Square, and location, location, location is doubly important when traveling with family. Instead of trying to cram everyone onto the MUNI or hail a tax cab for six, you can wander from the San Francisco Hilton lobby right up the hill to Chinatown and further on into North Beach. Remember: nothing gets the little ones to sleep at night better than a good walk. And if they happen to still have energy after the hills of San Francisco, Union Square itself is nearby to offer plenty of space for running around - plus world class shopping for Mom and Dad.
Recommended for Family-Friendly Hotels because: Hilton has reliable quality, so it's a measure of stability during the unexpected adventures that is the family vacation.
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You know the old saying: families that eat chocolate together, stay together. The Fairmont specializes in large one, two or three bedroom residences that allow plenty of space for the family. Residences include a full gourmet kitchen, a living space with large plasma screen TVs, and a comfortable dining area. Open-loft ceilings and exposed red brick contrast beautifully with dark wood floors and inviting spaces to relax with your whole family. Besides being right by Ghirardelli Square, the hotel is also near all of Fisherman's Wharf and tons of family activities. A minimum 3-night stay is required, and the rooms are not cheap, but what's the price tag on a successful family vacation?
Recommended for Family-Friendly Hotels because: The Fairmont Heritage puts the family right by Ghirardelli Square, which is the epicenter of family fun.
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Read more about Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square →
Built as a luxurious guest house for Millionaire's Row residents, this small hotel offers high-quality antiques, superb mattresses, and incredible views. First-class rooms and suites have TV, CD player, VCR, plush robes, two phone lines, modem, and minibar. Rooms are rivaled only by the level of service, and the staff is well-aware that many, many families choose the Hotel Drisco when they decide to travel all the way to the Bay Area. Daily continental breakfast and evening wine tastings contribute to the experience. Corner suite 304A is popular for its views of Pacific Heights mansions and the bay. No on-site parking.
Recommended for Family-Friendly Hotels because: Hotel Drisco offers large, spacious accommodations, perfect for that family-style vacation.
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If you want to be around Fisherman's Wharf and Ghirardelli Square, but the Fairmont Heritage, our number one option, is a bit out of your price range, then the Sheraton's Fisherman's Wharf Hotel is a superb second choice. With no charge for children 17 and under who share a room with parents, the hotel is extremely thoughtful about the needs of families. And with their signature Sweet Sleeper bed option, you can have a fun sleepover for the whole family. Whether you'd like to explore Alcaltraz, walk the Embarcadero, stuff your face silly with chocolate at Ghirardelli or shop the high-end boutiques at Union Square, the Sheraton Fisherman's Wharf Hotel is a reasonable distance from all points in between.
Recommended for Family-Friendly Hotels because: Sheraton Fisherman's Wharf offers special discounts for families, so it's definitely a smart option.
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Hotel Nikko stands out on the list for its blend of "Asian grace and modern convenience." Feinstein's at the Nikko offers big name entertainment acts on a nightly basis, and the Anzu restaurant focuses on local, sustainable California food. One of several hotels within Union Square, the proximity to the Powell MUNI/BART entrance is a mixed blessing: you can hop on a MUNI bus to reach all parts of San Francisco, or board a BART train to explore Berkeley, Oakland and the East Bay. But walking through the now infamous panhandlers around the Powell Station may not be the most enjoyable of family outings.
Recommended for Family-Friendly Hotels because: Hotel Nikko's location next to Union Square and public transportation makes it very convenient for families.
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