Best Hotels in Laurel Heights, San Francisco
Looking for a new spot to explore in San Francisco? Laurel Heights could be it. This central family-friendly neighborhood holds several cute boutiques and is surrounded by a bounty of hotels in the area, from basic budget hotels to luxury hotels.
Nestled between hotspots like the Presidio and Alamo Square, Laurel Heights is a true San Francisco neighborhood. Whether you’re seeing a show at the Fillmore, visiting a student at USF, hitting Golden Gate Park or just exploring the city,we have the hotels you need in and around Laurel Heights.
Why We Love Laurel Heights
This classic San Francisco ‘hood is central to some of our faves. Here are just a few reasons why we love Laurel Heights:
- Sweet hotels: Instead of staying in the midst of the skyscrapers, why not find a real city boutique hotel in Laurel Heights? From cozy residential style inns to more high-end suites down the road, Laurel Heights is ready and waiting for your arrival in San Francisco.
- It’s all green: Laurel Heights is sandwiched by two of the greenest areas in the city. On one side, the Presidio sprawls across to the bay featuring the famous Palace of Fine Arts and crazy views of the Golden Gate. On the other side sits Golden Gate Park with picnic spots for days and museums like the De Young and the California Academy of Sciences.
- Venue views: With so much going on in the city, chances are you might be visiting San Francisco for an event. Several popular venues sit right in reach of Laurel Heights. Check out an indie band at the famed Fillmore, catch a flick at the cocktail-serving Kabuki or hit the Outside Lands music festival in Golden Gate Park.
- Photo op: Head down to Alamo Square for one of the most famous views in all of San Francisco — the painted ladies. These Victorian homes are recognizable worldwide, most notably for their appearance in the opening credits of Full House. Bring a blanket to enjoy time in the grassy square itself.
- Grab grub: Laurel Heights has a few secret food and beverage gems worth writing home about. Fuel up on caffeine at Four Barrel Coffee, wait patiently in line for the ultimate pastry at B. Patisserie, dine on posh cuisine at Spruce and sip on a greyhound at Lion Pub.
What to Do in Laurel Heights
Laurel Heights is a unique location, surrounded on all sides by districts filled with various activities. Whether you're looking to learn a bit of West Coast history, enjoy a walk or two through the cities and eucalyptus forests, go out for an exciting night on the town or just kick back and take a break, the Laurel Heights neighborhood has something for you. While in the area, you should:
1. Learn the History
With such a rich culture and history, San Fran is home to many museums, including:
- The San Francisco Fire Department Museum in Laurel Heights, which details the growth of the department and honors every firefighter, past and present
- The Walt Disney Family Museum, founded by Walt's daughter
- The Presidio Officers' Club, a cultural center and restaurant housed in a historic military meeting place
- Fort Point, a Civil War-era fortress tucked under the Golden Gate Bridge
- The De Young Museum, housing a broad variety of fine art and a sculpture garden
2. Take a Hike
If you enjoy the natural beauty of the outdoors, Laurel Heights is surrounded closely by parks both small and large. Just southwest of the heights sits Golden Gate Park, a 1,000-acre area perfect for strolling. Alamo Square Park is much smaller, but bordered by the painted ladies, a renowned and photogenic row of colorful Victorian houses. Alta Plaza Park and Lafayette Park are short for walks, but perfect for great views and resting on the lawn with a picnic. The most significant nearby walking path is the Presidio, boasting 1,500 acres of trails, historical sites, grassy fields and eucalyptus trees. Walk far enough, and you can catch scenic views of the bay.
3. Enjoy Live Music
So much of San Fran is rooted in art, which is why it's no surprise there are so many live music venues scattered throughout the neighborhoods. Laurel Heights is central to a few, including:
- The Fillmore
- SFJAZZ
- Boom Boom Room
- The Independent
- Neck of the Woods
In these venues, you'll find local artists and DJs from every genre of music and popular bands on tour. You may not catch any major pop-stars, but you'll have a fun time swaying to the sounds of jazz or indie, singing along with a pop-punk or cover artist, and dancing through the night to roots, R&B and hip-hop.
4. See the Sights
Picturesque views and popular photo sites surround the Laurel Heights area. The Lyon Street Steps is a famous staircase completely lined with hedges, where visitors can climb to the top to get a view of the Palace of Fine Arts dome. Close by sits renowned artist Andy Goldsworthy's Wood Line, a 1,200-foot sculpture made of recycled eucalyptus trunks that explores the first stage in the life of trees. There are a few other sites worth seeing within the Golden Gate Park, including:
- The Conservatory of Flowers
- The 1914 Herschell-Spillman carousel
- The Hamon Observation Tower
- The Japanese Tea Garden
- Two historic windmills
- The National AIDS Memorial Grove
5. Relax
Need to spend some time on self-care or meditation, or just want to relieve some stress? There are plenty of ways to relax around Laurel Heights.
Studio Soothe offers spa treatments, such as facials, skincare and massages, by appointment. With warm, inviting spaces and intimate rooms, it's a popular spot to unwind, so be sure to book a week or so ahead.
Kabuki Springs and Day Spa also offers massages by appointment, as well as a clothing-optional bathhouse. The bathhouse includes a hot pool, cold pool, dry sauna, steam room, showers and various bathing amenities, such as body scrubs, face cloths, teas and cucumber slices. Days are determined by gender. Monday, Thursday and Saturday are reserved for men, while Wednesday, Friday and Sunday are reserved for women. Tuesday serves as an all-gender day.
Laurel Heights is also a short ride from the coast, so you can take a break, sit in the sand and listen to the sounds of the bay on Baker Beach. With craggy cliffs and the Golden Gate Bridge, you'll get lost in the scenic views and rhythmic waves.
Where to Eat in Laurel Heights
After a day of business or pleasure, it's likely you'll be hungry for something delicious. Dine in style at one of the many Californian restaurants with locally sourced ingredients for an authentic taste of San Fran. Or, try something more Mediterranean and stop in an Italian place for fresh pasta and delicious desserts. Not interested in an upscale ambiance or just want a quick meal? Grab a bite at a burger joint, and be sure to get some fries and a milkshake while you're at it. Laurel Heights has options for everyone, in any direction. Some of the local favorites include:
1. Vixi Cucina Italiana
Named for the Roman expression, "I have lived," this intimate Italian restaurant serves fresh favorites and traditional recipes paired with your selection of wine. With locally sourced produce, seasonal dishes and that classic San Fran gelato, Vixi brings the best of Italy to the heart of Laurel Village. Enjoy a classic, such as the chicken or eggplant parmigiana, or try a potential new favorite, like the polenta farcita or cavatappi pasta. Bring a friend and share a few dishes — you might have a hard time deciding on one.
2. Spruce
For an upscale experience, social atmosphere and California-inspired dishes, look no further than Spruce. Chef Mark Sullivan's personal connections with local farmers and winemakers inform the selections, providing a fresh menu. With specialized menus for brunch, lunch, dinner and tastings, as well as a wine list that boasts over 2,500 labels to choose from, Spruce is the perfect venue for an evening of celebration or relaxation.
3. B. Patisserie
Based on modern French tea rooms and created with an inviting open kitchen, B. Patisserie is the perfect place for a light lunch. Their menu includes a variety of beautifully crafted viennoiserie, pastries and tartines — delicate open-faced sandwiches. Enjoy coffee and a tartine and be sure to try something sweet after, even if you take it to go.
4. Mel's Drive-In
Serving up hearty breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes with '50s flair, Mel's keeps the traditional American diner feel alive and well in San Fran. You can stick with the drive-in classic — a burger, fries and a milkshake — or branch out with other sandwiches, soups and salads. Regardless of what you order, you can count on Mel's to serve something delicious, morning, noon and night.
5. As Quoted
For light, healthy fare inspired by local farms, As Quoted provides a chic and minimalist cafe experience. They serve breakfast through lunch and offer options that avoid dairy, soy, nuts and gluten. Enjoy an organic salad, open-face sandwich, seasonal soup or smoothie to start and keep your day on track. Whatever you choose to order, every plate is picture-worthy.
6. Garibaldis
Located in a stylish neighborhood on Presidio Avenue, Garibaldis merges Mediterranean and Californian cuisine in their specialized lunch, dinner and dessert menus. From sautéed seafood to lamb tenderloins to gnocchi, you might have a hard time deciding which delicious entree to order. A neighborhood favorite for over 20 years, this restaurant is a beautiful venue for any occasion — even if there is no occasion.
7. Roam
With freshly baked bread, local and seasonal produce, commitment to ethical ingredients and a devotion to sustainability, Roam has everything it takes to be a modern success. Custom build your burger from the patty up, and whether you enjoy meat or go meatless, you're guaranteed a delicious creation of your design. You can also choose from chef-selected house styles or salads and sides, but you're always free to add on from the artisanal toppings list.
Grab a Drink in Laurel Heights
Looking to relax and enjoy a drink? We've got you covered. There are a few gems that focus more on their glasses than their plates. With different ambiances, attitudes and drink programs to choose from, you can visit a new location every night — or find the perfect spot for you and return for seconds. Find your fancy and take a sip at one of the local wine, beer or cocktail bars, including:
1. Tofino Wines
With a focus on natural, eclectic and well-balanced wines from family-run estates in California, France, Italy and Spain, Tofino provides a full experience for any visitor. They sell a selection of more than 700 varieties, and they offer tastings, a full wine and beer bar, events with wine importers and a menu of crafted snacks to pair with a glass or two. If you like what you try, you can take a bottle home straight from Tofino.
2. Internos
You'll be drawn to Internos by the cozy atmosphere and rustic decor, but you'll stay for the wine. Serving by the glass, this wine bar offers labels from all over the world, including locally from Northern California. They also have beer by the bottle and on tap, for those who aren't as romanced by vino. Visit and enjoy the ambiance, as well as a few appetizers and snacks from the kitchen.
3. Richmond Republic Draught House
Offering a lengthy draught and bottle list with something for everyone, Richmond Republic Draught House is an excellent place to enjoy a craft beer with a friend or fellow brewery enthusiast. They also offer wine and soft drinks as well as non-alcoholic beer, for those who aren't as inclined. Whether you're into hops or not, Richmond Republic has a food menu that puts average pub menus to shame. Enjoy your casual evening here with a nice, cold brew.
4. Barrel Head Brewhouse
If you love campy music-and-movie-inspired names for dishes and seeing the tanks your beer is made in, then you'll love Barrel Head Brewhouse. Try their house beers, brewed on location, or choose one of their signature brewtails, cocktails, guest beers, wines or even build-your-own manhattans. Can't decide? Get a flight and try 5 ounces of several of their house beers.
5. Brass Tacks
With a stylish and relaxed environment and crafted cocktails, Brass Tacks is one of the best venues for a chic but quiet evening. Their space is comfortably intimate, with warm lighting and decor that is at the same time modern and humble. Here, you can have a Conversation, made from rye whiskey, root syrup and orange bitters, or sip on a Knife In The Water, with manzanilla sherry, Salers aperitif, Dolin Blanc and Peychaud's bitters. Or, enjoy one of their available wines and beers. Whatever your preference, Brass Tacks is excellent for a cocktail or casual drink.
Where to Find the Best Hotels in Laurel Heights, San Francisco
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