Fodor's Expert Review Hotel des Arts

447 Bush St., San Francisco, California 94108, United States See on Map

Climb a narrow, nondescript staircase to discover this small, funky hotel that doubles as an art gallery. Hallways and rooms have been transformed by international artists who painted splashy murals and installed site-specific small sculptures. The exhibited art is rotated constantly, so you can let serendipity be your guide.

If you're looking for a cool souvenir of your stay, some small paintings are available for purchase.

room

The highlight of the tiny rooms are the murals on the walls. Internationally recognized artists created wall-sized paintings that will appeal to those interested in the craft of street art. Don't expect much in rooms besides a bed, a TV, a small desk, and a bathroom.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Rooms include Wi-Fi.

bathroom

Some of the tiny bathrooms feature clawfoot tubs. The artsy vibe, unfortunately, does not extend to the bathrooms.

lobby

Art greets guests when they enter the small lobby area--though there's not much room for lounging.

dining

The staff serves a minimal Continental breakfast that will leave most hungry.

drinking

At the corner, pop into Cafe de la Presse for morning coffee and pastries, or for an afternoon aperol spritz.

LOCATION

Getting Around

Parking rates are just over $34 a night. Muni buses and cable cars stop within a couple blocks. Walkers will appreciate the hotel's proximity to Chinatown, Financial District, SoMa, Nob Hill, North Beach and more. Hop on Muni/BART trains at Powell Street Station to access San Francisco and Oakland airports, Golden Gate Park, the Castro, and the East Bay.

Restaurants

For an innovative glimpse at modern Chinese cuisine, head over to Chef Brandon Jew's Mister Jiu's (6-minute walk) for salt-crusted seafood, and foraged mushroom bao. For a more casual experience, wander over to the lively Ramen Bar (12-minute walk) for exquisitely prepared noodle bowls.

Bars

Live music and affordable cocktails lure locals to the Rickhouse (3-minute walk). Hike up Nob Hill for a fantastic sunset view of the city and the bay at Top of the Mark (7-minute walk).

WHY WE LIKE IT

Finally there's an artsy spot for budget travelers. Hotel des Arts offers minimalist rooms with breakfast in the heart of the action.

QUICK FACTS

Trendy
43 rooms
Breakfast Yes
Lunch No
Dinner No
Bar No
Cafe No
Room Service No
$
Yes
Parking Lot
No

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 800-956–4322; 415-956–3232

What’s Nearby

People also liked

Handlery Union Square Hotel

Handlery Union Square Hotel

$$ | 351 Geary Street

A family run historic property in the center of San Francisco's shoppi... Read More

© Global Image Creation, LLC

The Alise San Francisco

$$$ | 580 Geary Street

Elegant style infuses this new San Francisco boutique property Read More

Tilden Hotel

$$ | 345 Taylor St

San Francisco's hip hideaway for budget travelers Read More

Proper Hotel

$$ | 1100 Market Street

The wild west meets Parisian chic in the hippest hotel to grace SF pro... Read More

Hotel Via

$$$ | 138 King Street

This sleek new hotel overlooking AT&T Park is not just for baseball fa... Read More

The Yard, with four fire pits, shuffleboard, Giant Connect Four, custom food truck open 7am - 9pm

Hotel Zephyr

$$$ | 250 Beach St.

Unobstructed views of the bay in this edgy, yet playful tribute to San... Read More