Kimpton Alton Fisherman's Wharf by IHG

The hotel is right in the middle of Fisherman's Wharf, so it's easy to get around, and it felt like a home away from home. I also liked that it was set away from the mischief and drama. Yveey and Mary made a big difference during check-in and were friendly, professional, and eager to help. They even pointed me toward things to do in the area. Manager Nathan took time to show me around my suite and explain its features, and made clear that my comfort mattered to him. Had an amazing weekend here, and I'd recommend it to anyone visiting the area.

I've stayed here several times, and the rooms and bathrooms are pretty. Mary and Esmeralda were attentive and a great help. It's good value for the money. One serious heads-up: valet doesn't open again until 6 a.m. If you have an earlier flight, your car may be stuck in the garage. They won't move it because of “insurance reason,” and the valet staff may not tell you that ahead of time, so you could end up needing a new flight.

The lobby and exterior look great, and the evening wine or apple cider and morning hot chocolate were nice. Front desk staff were lovely. The room was another story. Room 222 was small and felt like a Holiday Inn Express with a music player, nothing special. The location is convenient, but parking cost us over $75 plus tax. We later found cheaper nearby parking, and street parking is free after 6 p.m. on weekends.

The location is hard to beat. It's steps from Boudin in Fisherman's Wharf, the F line toward Embarcadero and Market Street and then Chase Center, with Ghirardelli Square just across the way. Trader Joe's, The New Thai restaurant, and Joe Dimaggio North Beach playground are about two blocks off. Locals queue at The New Thai, so go before 6 p.m.; the playground is where you get off from Chinatown Muni and locals play bocce there. There's also a three-story public garage diagonally across from Kimpton Alton, with good overnight parking, and Avis parks there. At the hotel, beds were among the most comfortable we've had, and you can request indoor plants for the room. We liked the complimentary happy hour and breakfast at onsite Abaca, though it can get busy in the evening, so book ahead. The shampoo and conditioner smell great too.