Fodor's Expert Review Laurel Inn

The blue-and-tan facade of this stylish inn suggests its 1963 urban-motel origins, yet the spacious rooms themselves are quite modern. Shops and restaurants are a block away on Sacramento Street. The quiet location, paired with the fun vibe of the cocktail bar, make this a prime choice for travelers who want to experience life in a San Francisco residential neighborhood.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Pets are welcome here at no charge.

room

Spacious rooms were rei-magined by designer Oren Bronstein in 2017. The 1950s retro vibe features velvet furnishings, geometric patterned highlights, walnut wood and orange accent lamps. Work from local artists spruce up interiors. Families like the adjoining rooms, and the 18 rooms that offer kitchenettes.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Accommodations in the rear have cityscape views and tend to be quieter.

Photo: Loving the newly renovated rooms at #thelaurelinn! There's just the right amount of #retro. #pacificheights #sanfrancisco #modernluxury #interiorscalifornia / @lauraecksteinjones

bathroom

Marble splashed bathrooms feature Jonathan Adler products. Request a bathtub if you desire one.

lobby

The blue mosaic tile entrance invites guests to experience the playful lobby, where travelers hang out on couches, some draped by blankets, to read or work. Succulents and fresh flowers bring life to the common spaces.

gym

For a fee, day passes are available to the extensive exercise facilities, classes and pool at the Jewish Community Center, directly across the street.

dining

The hotel offers complimentary pastries and coffee in the mornings. Swank Cocktail Lounge also whips up Blue Bottle Coffee for guests. After dark at Swank Cocktail Lounge, enjoy bar bites like paninis and pizzettas.

YOU SHOULD KNOW The inn serves complimentary lemonade and cookies in the afternoon.

drinking

The Swank Cocktail Lounge lives up to its name, with 1960s-era furnishings, mixologists slinging funky and classic cocktails, baristas whipping up Blue Bottle coffee, and James Bond on the telly outmaneuvering all his foes.