I am looking at staying at the Argonaut or Radisson-San Fransisco for two nights. Are the views of the bay and Alcatraz worth it -or - should I look at a Union Square location? Will be traveling mid October and thought views of the water in the morning and night from my room would be terrific!

I don't have any experience w/ the hotels you have chosen, but the views of the Bay are beautiful and if you go to Alcatraz, the view of the city scape from the island is just as stunning!

If you're guaranteed a bay view room in particular, ed, I'd go for it. I lived a few minutes from the Argonaut for nine years with one of those views, and with the beam of the Alcatraz lighthouse washing through my bedroom at night, and I never got tired of it.

besides which, October is a stellar month here. The skies should be delightfully clear.

The most stunning view of SFO I ever saw was returning from (then) Sear's Point race track just at dawn from the GG Bridge - I suspect most commuters from Marin and N are immune to the spectacular sight, but... nearly as impressive as the first time @ the Grand Canyon.
Many sunsets in SFO are a close second.
M

Yes, the views of the bay are definitely worth it. You can stay in any major city and look at buildings.

Since mikeko brought up the subject, the most stunning view I've had of San Francisco was looking back across the bay from Alcatraz on a clear day just after a rain. You could see all the hills and they looked like shimmering silver ribbons cascading down the city.

I have stayed at the Argonaut but was treated to a suite - very expensive but great room. Be sure you have a bay view when you make your reservations as all of the rooms might not face the bay. It is a first class hotel and the area is very fun and touristy. Be sure to check out the Buena Vista Cafe and catch the cable car which is right around the corner from the Argonaut. Good seafood is Scomas out on a pier It isn't cheap but you really get a lot of food. Do take in the Alcatraz tour. I recommend it to all my friends who come in from out of town. It is very fun and October will be lovely weather.

My fav hot. is the Stanford Court @ CA and Powell.
Their B'F Lemon Souffle pancakes with raspberries and rapsberry sauce is world class and feeds two.
M

Do any of you have an opinion as to what views from the Argonaut are
the best? GG bridge vs. alcatraz? or any particular rooms that you've
liked? we want to get a deluxe view room, but not a suite. thanks!