The W San Francisco : Hotel Review

When seeking a hotel in the heart of San Francisco there are a dizzying array of options.  Large chains, trendy boutiques, tiny spots with a view and so much more.  I recently had the opportunity to stay at and review the W San Francisco on a whirlwind trip to the city by the bay.  Here’s what we found:

Next to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and in the heart of the SoMa District (South of Market neighbourhood), the W San Francisco is a 404 room hotel in a fabulous location. It has a contemporary and stylish vibe that will appeal to business and leisure travelers alike.  First impressions are key, and the lobby does not disappoint.  Less lobby, more living room, the area is welcoming, comfortable and sets the trendy/chic vibe the moment you walk in the door.

photo courtesy of W San Francisco

The location is ideal, just a short 6 block stroll to Union Square and a 10-minute taxi ride to Fisherman’s Wharf.  Nearby you can find a plethora of restaurants and there’s a Starbucks less than half a block from the front door.  At night the lobby comes alive as the hip lobby bar fills up with fashionably dressed people enjoy a cocktail, a chat, and some gorgeous appetizers.

The hotel itself is home to Bliss San Francisco Spa and a futuristic fit gym like we’ve never seen before.

 

photo courtesy of W San Francisco

The hotel is pet-friendly and the concierge is happy to arrange; dog-sitting/walking, as well as provide locations of the nearest dog parks, dog runs, veterinarian, and grooming services.  Note that dogs over 40 lbs are permitted with permission and efforts are made to be sure customers with pet allergies are not affected.

The rooms are the star of the show.  Contemporary rooms offer flat-screen TVs, minibars, and Wi-Fi (fee). Upgraded rooms have sitting areas and/or skyline or city views. Suites offer in-room safes, coffee machines, pillow-top mattresses, and pillow menus.  Room service is available 24/7.

The rooms and luxury suites come in seven different categories running from the aptly named Wonderful Room to the largest Extreme Wow Suite.  Each room envelopes you in a quiet fashionable style and artful décor.  The bathrooms are stocked with Bliss products and signature W bathrobes.

We stayed in a Mega Corner Room.  400 square feet of I don’t want to leave.  A glorious King Size bed with down duvet, 47-inch flat screen TV , Nespresso Coffee Machine and an iPod® docking station.  There was a charming sitting area with coffee table and full-size desk with multi-charging ports to connect your laptop.

Pros:

• Loved the location – 181 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA – Just far enough from Union Square to be quiet but close enough to be walkable.
• Mid-price point (keep in mind that SPG members do get better rates, so sign up before you book!)
• Clean contemporary style
• Friendly and helpful staff

Cons

• Few family-oriented amenities
• Fee for in-room Wi-Fi (but free in lobby)

Conclusion:  The W San Francisco offers quiet contemporary flare in the heart of San Francisco,  a good choice when booking that next trip to San Francisco.

Craving more details?  Find more information about the  W San Francisco on their website.

Disclosure:  My accommodations were provided in order to help facilitate this review.  As always all opinions on this blog remain my own.