The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square: A Historic Beacon of Luxury and Elegance
The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square stands as an iconic symbol of luxury, history, and impeccable service in the heart of San Francisco. This grand hotel, with its storied past, opulent accommodations, and prime location, offers an unparalleled experience for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the charm and vibrancy of one of the world's most beloved cities. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the many facets that make The Westin St. Francis a premier destination for visitors from around the globe.
A Storied History
Opened in 1904, The Westin St. Francis has been a landmark in San Francisco for over a century. Its founding was part of the broader development of Union Square as a central hub of the city. The hotel's original design by architect George W. Kelham featured Beaux-Arts architecture, which set a new standard for luxury and elegance in San Francisco.
The hotel survived the devastating 1906 earthquake and subsequent fires, thanks to its robust construction. In the aftermath, it served as a refuge for the city's residents and a symbol of resilience. The restoration and expansion efforts in the years that followed solidified its status as a premier luxury hotel.
Architectural Grandeur
The Westin St. Francis is an architectural marvel that seamlessly blends historic elegance with modern sophistication. The hotel's original 12-story structure, now known as the Landmark Building, is complemented by the Tower Building, added in 1972, which soars 32 stories high and offers breathtaking views of the city and the bay.
- Landmark Building: The historic Landmark Building retains its early 20th-century charm, with marble columns, crystal chandeliers, and intricate woodwork adorning its grand lobby and public spaces. The rooms and suites in this building exude classic elegance, with period furnishings and luxurious amenities.
- Tower Building: The modern Tower Building offers a contemporary contrast, with sleek design elements and panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows that provide stunning views of the San Francisco skyline. The rooms and suites in this building feature modern decor and state-of-the-art technology.
Luxurious Accommodations
The Westin St. Francis offers a variety of accommodations to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of its guests. Each room and suite is designed to provide the utmost comfort and relaxation, with a focus on blending historic charm with modern convenience.
- Traditional Rooms: These rooms offer a cozy and elegant retreat with plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and views of the city or Union Square. The decor reflects the hotel's rich history, with period details and luxurious finishes.
- Deluxe Rooms: Located in the Tower Building, these rooms feature contemporary decor and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer panoramic views of San Francisco. Guests can enjoy modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet, and ergonomic workspaces.
- Suites: The spacious suites offer separate living and sleeping areas, making them ideal for families or guests seeking extra space. Each suite is individually decorated, with features such as fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and private balconies. The St. Francis Suites and Specialty Suites offer enhanced luxury with additional amenities and personalized services.
- Luxury Suites: For the ultimate indulgence, the hotel offers a selection of luxury suites, including the iconic Presidential Suite. These opulent accommodations feature expansive living areas, dining rooms, and private terraces with stunning views of the city. Guests staying in these suites enjoy exclusive amenities and personalized services, ensuring a truly memorable experience.
Exquisite Dining
Dining at The Westin St. Francis is a culinary delight, with a variety of restaurants and bars offering a range of dining experiences to suit every palate.
- The Oak Room Restaurant: This elegant restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a menu that highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy a range of dishes, from classic American fare to innovative culinary creations, all served in a refined setting with views of Union Square.
- Clock Bar: Designed by renowned mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim, Clock Bar offers a chic and contemporary atmosphere for enjoying handcrafted cocktails, fine wines, and premium spirits. The bar’s menu features a selection of artisanal small plates, making it a perfect spot for a casual evening or pre-dinner drinks.
- Caruso’s: Located in the Tower Building, Caruso’s offers a relaxed and inviting ambiance for enjoying breakfast, lunch, or a light snack. The menu features a variety of healthy and delicious options, including freshly baked pastries, gourmet sandwiches, and seasonal salads.
- The St. Francis Tavern: This cozy and historic tavern offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for enjoying a pint of beer, a glass of wine, or a classic cocktail. The menu features a selection of hearty pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and shareable appetizers.
Wellness and Spa
The Westin St. Francis is committed to promoting wellness and relaxation, offering a range of facilities and services designed to help guests rejuvenate and unwind.
- WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio: The hotel’s state-of-the-art fitness studio is equipped with modern exercise machines, free weights, and cardio equipment. Guests can enjoy a range of fitness classes, including yoga, Pilates, and strength training, as well as personalized training sessions.
- Heavenly Spa by Westin™: The luxurious spa offers a variety of treatments designed to promote relaxation and well-being. Guests can indulge in massages, facials, body treatments, and aromatherapy sessions, all performed by skilled therapists in a tranquil setting.
- In-Room Spa Services: For added convenience, the hotel offers in-room spa services, allowing guests to enjoy a range of treatments in the privacy and comfort of their own room. Services include massages, facials, and beauty treatments, all tailored to meet individual needs and preferences.
Meetings and Events
The Westin St. Francis is an ideal venue for meetings, conferences, weddings, and special events, offering a range of versatile event spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.
- Meeting Rooms: The hotel features over 56,000 square feet of meeting space, including 33 meeting rooms equipped with the latest technology. Whether hosting a small business meeting or a large conference, the hotel’s experienced event planners can assist in organizing a successful and memorable event.
- Ballrooms: The hotel’s grand ballrooms, including the historic Alexandra’s and the elegant St. Francis Suite, provide a stunning setting for weddings, galas, and social events. With their ornate decor, crystal chandeliers, and spacious layouts, these ballrooms offer a timeless and elegant backdrop for any occasion.
- Rooftop Terrace: The rooftop terrace offers a unique and breathtaking venue for outdoor events, with panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline and bay. It’s an ideal location for cocktail receptions, al fresco dining, and other special celebrations.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
The Westin St. Francis’s prime location on Union Square provides easy access to San Francisco’s most popular attractions, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks.
- Union Square: Just steps from the hotel, Union Square is a bustling hub of activity, featuring high-end shops, department stores, art galleries, and theaters. Guests can explore the square, enjoy street performances, and shop for luxury brands and designer labels.
- Chinatown: A short walk from the hotel, San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest and one of the largest in North America. Guests can explore its vibrant streets, visit traditional temples, and enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine at numerous restaurants and tea houses.
- Fisherman’s Wharf: A popular tourist destination, Fisherman’s Wharf offers a range of attractions, including the historic Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, and the Aquarium of the Bay. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood, take a boat tour of the bay, and visit the famous sea lions.
- Golden Gate Park: This expansive urban park offers a variety of outdoor activities and attractions, including the de Young Museum, the California Academy of Sciences, and the Japanese Tea Garden. Guests can enjoy walking, cycling, and picnicking in the park’s beautiful gardens and green spaces.
- Cultural Attractions: San Francisco is home to a wealth of cultural attractions, including the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), the Palace of Fine Arts, and the historic Alcatraz Island. Guests can explore the city’s rich cultural heritage and enjoy world-class art, theater, and music.
The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square is more than just a hotel; it is a historic landmark that offers a unique blend of luxury, elegance, and exceptional service. Whether you are visiting for business or leisure, the hotel provides an unparalleled experience in the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant and dynamic cities. Its rich history, luxurious accommodations, exquisite dining, and commitment to wellness make it a premier destination for discerning travelers. By staying at The Westin St. Francis, guests can immerse themselves in the charm and sophistication of San Francisco, creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
