Fodor's Expert Review InterContinental Mark Hopkins
999 California Street, San Francisco, California 94108, USA See on Map
The circular redbrick drive of this towering Nob Hill architectural landmark leads to an opulent lobby. The legendary rooftop lounge, the Top of the Mark, is the real star of the property with a breathtaking near-360-degree view of the city The hotel oozes with history, from the nearly century-old mural in the Room of the Dons to the mini-museum off the lobby and the art installations by local Academy of Art students. Stroll around and learn about the rich past of San Francisco's Big Four railroad barons and why this hotel was a favorite of film director Alfred Hitchcock and so many celebrity residents.
YOU SHOULD KNOW During the week, the hotel offers complimentary town car service to downtown.
room
Rooms, with Frette linens and goose-down duvets, glow with gold, cream, and yellow tones. Rooms on the upper floors have views of either the Golden Gate Bridge or the downtown cityscape.
bathroom
Bathrooms, lined with multi-color Italian marble, feature tubs, and upscale bath products.
lobby
The mirrored, marble-floor lobby is a museum in itself, with art installations from local fine artists, and a historic mural paying homage the the legacy of the original owner, Mark Hopkins. Hanging chandeliers, rich textured furniture, and a kindly staff add to the luxury.
gym
The 24-hour fitness center features state-of-the-art cardio equipment, weights, and stretching areas. For those really wanting a work out, hike up and down Nob Hill a couple times.
dining
The Nob Hill Club serves food throughout the day--their innovative coffee-experience will have you buzzing throughout the day. The real showpiece of the property is Top of the Mark, where you can sip a martini, dance to live music and join the masses to celebrate New Year's Eve. Top of the Mark serves tapas and light bites in the evenings.
Hit up Top of the Mark for its lovely Sunday champagne brunch.
drinking
Nob Hill Club features an impressive wine list in a subdued setting. Atop the hotel at Top of the Mark expect views of the entire city while you sip a martini and listen to live music.
LOCATION
Getting Around
Parking rates are steep. Most travelers leave their vehicles at home and take advantage of San Francisco's great public transit system. The cable car stops within a block from the hotel, connecting travelers with Union Square, the Financial District, Chinatown, and beyond. Hop on a Muni bus, or walk to the BART/Muni train station to reach the airports and outer neighborhoods. Walkers and fitness buffs will appreciate the steep climb back to the hotel after a gander around town.
Restaurants
The tasting menu at Sons & Daughters (7-minute walk) features dishes like smoked lobster mushrooms or fois gras terrine. The beloved Nob Hill Cafe (4-minute walk) serves Nonna-style Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere--the pesto fettuccine is divine.
WHY WE LIKE IT
Views, views, views from the upper floors and the lovely Top of the Mark allow travelers to feel like millionaires.
QUICK FACTS
Fodor’s Awards
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