Hotel Des Arts, San Francisco
It’s in a slender building that dates back to 1914 so if you don’t like narrow staircases or tiny 100-year-old elevators, this boutique hotel may not be for you. But it could be for almost everyone else. Centrally located on the border of Union Square, the Financial District and Chinatown Gate, its fittings and linens are minimal and tasteful but the décor has been handed over to local and international artists – a different one has painted each of the hotel’s 51 rooms. The art is dynamic, fresh and nothing like any hotel art you’ve seen before. This isn’t some polite nod towards the local artistic community as much as a total embracing of it. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly, there’s a 24-hour concierge service and a light breakfast is provided – but you’re surrounded by cafés if you need more than that. Look elsewhere for a gym but there is overnight and hourly parking nearby, extra rollaway beds available, free wi-fi and business facilities, and the hotel is walking distance from the major convention centres. The suites at the front are charming and reasonably priced but need to be booked for seven nights or more at busy times of the year.
Location
The Union Square area is one of the tourist centres of San Francisco – close to good shops, public transport, business convention centres, the Financial District and Chinatown.
447 Bush Street, San Francisco