The Fairmont San Francisco

The granddaddy of Nob Hill's elite cadre of ritzy hotels, the century-old Fairmont is a must-visit if only to marvel at the incredibly glamorous lobby with its vaulted ceilings, Corinthian columns, a spectacular spiral staircase, and rococo furniture. Such decadence carries to the guest rooms, where luxuries abound: oversize marble bathrooms, thick down blankets, goose-down king pillows, extra-long mattresses, and large walk-in closets. Its perch atop Nob Hill affords spectacular city views from every room -- though the panoramic views from the Tower Suites are the best. It's fun to indulge in afternoon tea (daily 2:30-4:30pm) in the ornate Laurel Court restaurant and lounge, which serves as the hotel's centerpiece. A local institution that's been around since I was a kid is the hotel's Tonga Room, a Disneyland-like tropical bar and restaurant where happy hour hops with bands playing on a floating island in a pool, and there's a "rain storm" every 30 minutes.

Facilities:
2 restaurants/bars; babysitting; concierge; health club (free for Fairmont President's Club members; $15 per day or $20 per 2 days, nonmembers); room service; free Wi-Fi in lobby

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.