Van Ness Inn

It’s easy to find and reach by car, and the neighborhood is quiet and residential while still fairly close to the piers and Columbus Av. The room was very clean, with everything either new or in excellent shape. Breakfast was basic but did the job, though I hadn’t planned to eat at the motel anyway. It wasn’t especially cheap, but I was in Frisco for New Year’s Eve, so I assume that explains the price. I’d booked for two people, then asked to switch to three and was charged extra even though they gave me the same room meant for two. The service could be better. Overall, though, it was satisfactory.

The covered parking is free, the staff were pleasant, and the hotel was clean. It has the look and many standard features of a two-star place, with some areas appearing to have been updated recently. There are rooms with a wall dividing the sleeping spaces, though no doors between the beds. Rates apparently climb quite a bit in the busy season, but in November I found it quite affordable. For a budget hotel near the piers, it deserves its good reviews.

The furniture showed some wear, but it was still perfectly usable. Our room was fine, with a good mattress and bedding, and the bathroom looked recently updated. Staff were friendly and appropriate, and the WiFi was decent. Breakfast was just croissants, bananas, orange juice, and coffee, which was about what I expected for the price. We stayed here on our honeymoon 38 years ago, and I’d come back. For the price, the location is hard to beat.

The room was small and very basic, with some dated furniture, but the bed and pillows were comfortable. It had a mini fridge, microwave, coffee maker, iron, and hairdryer. There’s no phone in the room, though I didn’t need one with my cell. They were a bit stingy with towels, and the TV didn’t work because there was no remote. Staff seemed helpful and nice. Check-in was quick, and the place was clean and comfortable. Parking was good, secure, and well lit. It’s close to bus routes and to Polk Gulch shops and places to eat, plus some other restaurants and transportation. Looks like they’re remodeling, which would earn more stars from me. If clean and basic is what you want, this works.