The inside local's take
The exterior glass elevators, added in the 1972 Tower wing, remain a signature San Francisco thrill — free to ride whether you're a guest or not.
Traditionally the hotel washes every coin that passes through, a practice that started in the 1930s so ladies' white gloves wouldn't get dirty.
The Powell Street cable car turnaround is one block away — arguably the best location in the city for first-time visitors.
More hotels
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The Fairmont San Francisco
A 1907 grande dame crowning Nob Hill. Marble lobbies, tiki cocktails in the Tonga Room, and cable cars stopping at the front door.
Palace Hotel
The Garden Court's stained-glass ceiling has hosted presidents, kings, and Sunday brunch since 1909. San Francisco's most opulent public room.
InterContinental Mark Hopkins
The Top of the Mark sky lounge on the 19th floor has served martinis with 360° city views since 1939 — a genuine San Francisco rite of passage.