For 5 people, I would get a town car - it will be easiest, fastest and probably the most cost efficient.

I took my 16 year old stepdaughter- we enjoyed the day at Alcatraz - I was glad I booked in advance as it was sold out the day we wanted to go. Just an FYI.

We stayed in Union Square. I have stayed at FW on a few occasions and Union Square - of the two I did prefer Union Square.

My stepdaughter liked walking through China Town, we saw Wicked one night so that was a great treat.

Hello k12lima, although I have not stayed at the Columbus Inn I was there, last year I believe, as two Fodorite's were sharing a room and after taking a boat ride out under the GG Bridge they invited us to use their room to freshen up before our Fodor's evening GTG. I believe you will be happy with your reservation. Great location, large room and very nice and clean. The beds in their room were either Q or K, I don't remember, but there was a lot of walking around space that I do remember as several of us piled into the room. And it is an easy walk to FW. The toilet and shower were in one room and the sink and counter outside of that space which is good when you have 5 people. And Deb is right, take a town car from SFO to the Columbus Inn. Five people and luggage, the good way to go imo.

If you and your family are great walkers walking from your hotel to either Union Sq. or the Emcaradero will be fun. You will be walking through various neighborhoods. Most kids and teens love exploring ChinaTown. Get off of Grant and cut across one of the side streets to Stockton for a less touristy view of ChinaTown. You can walk through the Stockton Tunnel to arrive in Union Sq. When you get to Union Sq. from Stockton walk right (west) one block (Geary is good, Union Sq. will be on your right) and you will hit Powell. Turn left (south) and walk the couple blocks down Powell until you get to Market. Cross Market and you will be at the SF Centre. Most teens enjoy wandering through there.

And no doubt your family will enjoy walking along the Embarcadero which is along the SF Bay (take Broadway east to the Embarcadero and than south on the Embarcadero) and visit the Ferry Bldg. at the end of Market. Or catch the Embarcadero from FW and take your walk. Or if at Union Sq. just walk east on Market and you will be at the Ferry Bldg. Have fun!

Oh I meant to say we enjoyed the Ferry Building on Sat. as well.