THE ARTFULLY ELEGANT KENSINGTON PARK HOTEL IN SAN FRANCISCO

Having only a few shorts days to spend in San Francisco, we knew we wanted to stay somewhere centrally located in order to get around quickly. After doing a little research, we quickly knew that we wanted to base ourselves in Union Square.

While most people complain that Union Square lacks personality or that true San Francisco feel, staying their suited our needs just fine. So don’t let those kind of comments steer you away from staying there– after all, Union Square is where most of the city’s ritziest hotels are located, and for good reason.

The Kensington Park Hotel is located right off of the Powell Street cable car line in a historic Gothic building dating back to the 1920s.

A little underwhelming from the outside, the real magic is felt when you step inside. It was like being swept away to another era– one of elegance and opulence. With chandeliers hanging overhead and plush inviting sofas next to a baby grand, I felt like I was in the lobby of a theatre.

We were graciously greeted at the front desk and swiftly checked in. Throughout the rest of our stay we always felt welcomed when the front desk staff would call us by name.

During the check in process, we were invited to a selection of tea, fruit infused water or sherry, which is complimentary for guests daily. Coming down each morning to make myself a cup of tea was the perfect way to begin the day until I could finally get everyone out the door for actual breakfast.

Heading upstairs to our room we passed the mezzanine level, which accommodates the ticket office for the San Francisco Playhouse, which is also located conveniently inside the Kensington Park building.

Our room was perfect for three people to stay in, with two large beds. The fluffy pillows and bedding actually made it hard to get up in the morning because it was so comfortable, but we pushed ourselves because we needed to get out to see what San Francisco has to offer.

Waiting for us on our antique desk was a complimentary bottle of wine– sourced right from the area, which we enjoyed after a long day of sightseeing.

Our room had a nice view over Union Square, and we would keep the windows open during the day to provide a little circulation as there is no air conditioning in the hotel. (But don’t worry, it’s San Francisco. Do you ever really need air conditioning here?) There is of course heat however as that’s a necessity here!

I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Kensington Park hotel, especially if you’re looking for someplace with a little more personality than your standard cookie cutter hotel. Yes, this hotel is a little older, but I think that’s what gives it its charm! Plus, the staff couldn’t be friendlier and the location couldn’t be more convenient for visitors.

A huge thank you to San Francisco Travel and the Kensington Park Hotel for hosting us during our time in San Francisco! As always, all opinions are my own regardless of who’s footing the bill.