Has anyone stayed at the Columbus Inn recently? How is the location? They offer free parking which is a huge plus as we've got a car and were hoping to keep it. However, if it costs more to park the darn thing than a weeks rental, we'll have to re-think the issue. We're looking for a hotel at a decent price (for July) that's in a central location where we can hop on a bus/cable car and really see the city. The car is for "other day trips" as we've got 7 nights. We're hoping not to spend more than $125.00 per night. Is this possible? Thanks.

We stayed there 15years ago for the location and value. Across from the Marriot, free parking underneath. Totally no frills but OK. Its a great location

For your purposes, it looks fine. It is just south of Fisherman's Wharf, from where you can get transportation to anywhere in the city. Meaning, that it is not exactly in a "central" location, but a good one for seeing the city. AAA gives it three diamonds. And how smart you are to look for a place with free parking.

If, for some reason, that doesn't work out, another alternative is the motel row on Lombard Street, which also has free parking and good transportation options. Google Cow Hollow Suites, Canturbury Motor Inn, Chelsea Motor Inn and Lombard Motor Inn. They belong to a group, their rates are reasonable, and they get good reviews.

They are a little further from the center but San Francisco transit is really very good. Even when I drive into the city for the weekend I choose it over trying to drive my car.

They must have torn the Marriot down before I stayed there a couple years ago.

It was OK for the price, and our room was a good size--as I recall. It is close to North Beach, and there is a big Safeway within walking distance (in the direction of Fisherman's Wharf). For low cost and "free" parking, I like the location of Pacific Heights Inn (Union Street), but I think the rooms at Columbus Inn are better.

Get tickets for Beach Blanket Babylon, as soon as you know your vacation dates.

Sorry, Hilda, I'm puzzled by Columbus inn being across from Marriott? Are you sure you're talking about Columbus Inn in the Van Ness area, not Columbus street where Marriott is?

There is a Columbus Inn near Fisherman's Wharf. I, also, was confused by the reference to the "Marriot"...???

Hi jroberts, are you talking about the Columbus Inn aka Columbus Motor Inn at 1075 Columbus?

There was a Marriott at Fisherman's Wharf 15 years ago, the Columbus Motor Inn was caddy cornered from one of the corners of the Marriott. We stayed the previous year at the Marriott. I have no idea if the Marriott is still there, it was 4-5 blocks from the wharf. I like the location

Loveitaly, yes, The Columbus Motor Inn at 1075 Columbus Ave. I havne't heard any negative comments, I may just book this place. Anybody else say at the Pacific Heights Inn, at Union Street as Happytrailstoyou has suggested?

Hi jroberts, I have never stayed there but I have never read anything bad about it, in fact I think a former poster (who has been banned) often suggested it to people. If you stay there let us know how it is. And have a fun time in SF!!

We;ve stayed there and its fine - very clean, convenient (bus stop RIGHT outside the front door) and FREE parking, which is a huge benefit in san francisco. Ask for a third floor room for a view of the bay!

I just wanted to let everyone know that we did stay at the Columbus Motor Inn in July and thought the place was great. It is NOT a Hilton or Four Seasons but it is a great hotel at a fantastic price in a realy good spot. The rooms were extremely clean and large and the staff couldn't have been more helpful! I would not hesitate to stay here again and again.

Thanks for the report. I'm glad it worked for you.

HTTY