Hotel Whitcomb

, San Francisco, United States
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Hotel Whitcomb

, San Francisco
2 star

Rooms: 458

1231 Market Street - San Francisco - California - 94103 - United States Hotel Website | | 415 626 8000
816 Traveller

Reviews - Hotel Whitcomb

6/10
Excellent Location
Submitted by: H. Yamaguchi in 27/05/05
  • Age Group:
  • From: United States
  • Traveller type: Business Traveller
Staff is accommodating and friendly. Location is excellent if you are using public transportation (BART, Muni or buses). Parking is also available if driving. Rooms were comfortable. Most of our party had a large room. One group had a very small room located off the hallway. You don't want that room! This was our second year booking at the Ramada Plaza Downtown, we love the location and price.
Check Rates and Availability for the Hotel Whitcomb
2/10
Unsafe area
Submitted by: JeanLuc Berry in 05/05/05
  • Age Group: 41 - 50
  • From: France
  • Traveller type: Family Traveller
Very small room and dirty bathroom. It's very expensive considering unsafe area.

Historical Traveller Reviews of Hotel Whitcomb

Unique and Amazing

from ycsomarv69
We stayed at the Hotel Whitcomb in late March. I picked the hotel because it appeared unique and had history. We booked our room directly with the hotel via phone and only paid about $80 a night for a king size bed. This was our first trip to SF and I wanted it to be perfect and memorable since I would be proposing to my partner on this trip. It was amazing. The hotel staff was courteous and helpful. The hotel decor is amazing from the lobby all the way to the rooms. I can't say enough about how nice the hotel was. There were a few things about the hotel that could be improved however it is around 100 years old and some of age is what makes it so memorable and different than all the other hotel chains. When we booked our room I did it over the phone because I wanted to find a smoking room. They advised they had two out of there over 400 rooms and told me on 3 occasions that I could get a smoking room. When I arrived that was not the case and I was told they did not have any. Not a big deal but was slightly disappointed in the mis information. But after I checked in and was able to take in the beauty of the hotel I forgot about the whole smoking issue and enjoyed it just the same. (Actually we smoked less because of it). If I had to list the worst thing about the hotel I would have to say the water saving shower heads. If I had only one suggestion to make to the hotel it would be to reconsider the shower heads as there are many other water saver heads out there. Just a thought! We drove to SF and used the valet parking where we left our car without worry for 4 days. I don't suggest trying to drive in this city unless you know it well and at $28 a day to park and the public tranportation right out the front door of the hotel there is no need to drive. The public transportation is affordable at a $1.50 for most. If you go make sure to try the Hotel resturant. It is top notch and I had a perfect experience. You should also look up Incredible Adventures for a tour of the Muir Woods and Wine Country. Affordable and completely enjoyable.
In conclusion, this hotel is a +4star hotel at a -3star price. You will not be disappointed and since my partner said "yes" we will either be going back for our honeymoon or maybe even plan our wedding there. Either way, I will definately stay at this hotel again and after my experience there I think any other hotel would be a let down.
Management Response from DerwoodSF
Dear Guest,
Thank you for taking time to write a few words about your stay at the Hotel Whitcomb. I hope all went well with your intended proposal!! I do apologize for any misinformation you received about a smoking room. As of the first of this year we have become a 100% smoke free hotel. I am, however, very pleased that the staff provided such excellent service. I hope to be able to personally welcome you back to the Hotel Whitcomb on your honeymoon!!
Kind regards,
Darin Sturgill

Exceeded my expectations

from rictheater
I was in town on business and the host company booked my room here. Have been to SF many times and stayed in about a dozen different hotels there over the years. TA reviews of Whitcomb were mixed, so I was a bit concerned. But every part of my experience exceeded my expectations.

A large group was checking in, so I went to the bellman and checked a bag so I could spend a couple of hours enjoying the glorious sunny afternoon I arrived. He was friendly and helpful. The concierge was friendly and helpful. When I checked in later, the front desk staff was also friendly & helpful.

City rooms in old hotels are often tiny, but this one was adequate--queen bed, table with two easy chairs and a desk and chair. Bathroom was very small with staff shower, but everything was exceptionally clean. Furnishings looked like they were fairly new, nice curtains and wallpaper and art on the walls.

Returning from the theatre, found the bar closing ( a bit too early on a Friday night!) but the security guard/doorman referred us to a bar two blocks away -- a good suggestion and very friendly.

Starbucks convenient in the building.

It was just a quick stay, but the place appeared very well maintained for a historic hotel. It does border a neighborhood with quite a few homeless on the street, but I found many homeless everywhere in SF along the whole Market Street corridor during this visit--more than I've seen before. I did not fee this was an unsafe neighborhood, and the locals who went to the bar with me said it was not.

The room rate was, I believe $75, which is a bargain for SF--may have been a special rate for the business that booked me. But it is not in the hear of the tourist district where rooms are at least double that rate. However, it's only a 15 minute walk to Union Square or you can take BART -- there's a station right out front of the hotel.

I will probably stay here again.

I had a room near the back and there was some early morning noise by workers attending the garage of the nearby office building, but SF is a big city and such noises are to be expected.
Management Response from DerwoodSF
Dear Guest,
I am so pleased that the Hotel Whitcomb exceeded your expectations and that you enjoyed your stay with us. I am also very pleased that the staff was so helpful and accomodating - from the concierge to the security staff to the front desk agents. As you mentioned, the hotel does have a wonderfully central location for exploring all that San Francsico has to offer. I hope you will stay with us agian in the near future.
Kind regards,
Darin Sturgill

Highly recommend Hotel Whitcomb!

from suward
You've heard the term "I left my heart in San Francisco" well I left my heart in Hotel Whitcomb.... in San Francisco". As soon as I set foot through the lobby doors, I was impressed by its beautiful decor. The staff is SO friendly and helpful, yeah I know they're supposed to be friendly and helpful - its the hospitality industry...but this was different...

I am a young single female traveller who often travels alone - I'm still new to all this traveling stuff so I'm still learning the ropes and the 'do's and don'ts'.

Safety is always a concern for me and when the "going gets tough" I usually pack up and go home. Well, the "going got tough" and this time I couldn't go home (i'm on a multi destination city trip) .

For whatever maybe the reason, my point is that at the height of my stress, the hotel staff and management looked after me and ensured that my problems were solved; they were polite, attentive, compassionate, professional and where they couldn't help - they ensured that I was comfortable. I'm not just talking about front desk but, also maid service (this one lady was really cool I wish I got her name), bell service - Yan, Mark in accounting - credit card problems - right up to the Hotel Manager, Khazi.

Providing good service is the job of a hotel and its staff, providing excellent service is what makes a hotel and its staff exceptional, a hotel becomes exceptional by the way they handle emergencies and Hotel Whitcomb did just that!

I highly recommend this hotel not only for its comfortable bouncy beds, free internet services, beautiful decor at an affordable price- I'm recommending it for the staff services. But don't take my word for it - I encourage you to book a room and find out for yourself!

Thank you Hotel Whitcomb!!!
Cheers,
Susannah
Management Response from DerwoodSF
Dear Susannah,
Thank you so much for taking time to write a few words about your stay at the Hotel Whitcomb. I am so very pleased that the staff took such great care of you and thank you so much for mentioning a few of the staff by name. I truly hope to be able to personally wlecome you back to the hotel in the near future!
Kind regards,
Darin Sturgill

Hotel from Hell...

from ozzrod1
When we got to the hotel we didn't know where to park, turns out that you have to pay for parking on top of having your car behind the hotel inside an alley way. As we continued the staff inside seemed very nice. The food was amazing! but the walls!?!?! were thin!! You can not sleep. If you are a light sleeper then I do not recomend! I am a heavy sleeper and I still woke up! there were very loud people that checked in and the "hotel security" did nothing about it when they were called. You can hear the ice machine working a mile away, the rooms are very small, no lock on the bathroom doors! WTF??? You have to pay for everything even internet downstairs. Just take your laptop. This is really not a good place to stay. I also read reviews and didn't listen i should have paid 100 bucks more it would have been worth it!
Management Response from DerwoodSF
Dear Guest,
Thank you for your comments about your stay at the Hotel Whitcomb. As you may or may not know, all hotels in San Francisco do charge an additional fee for valet parking. Perhaps you were mistaken about where your car was being parked. We do have a separate entrance to valet parking as well as a two level, enclosed and secured garage for all of our guest's cars. With regards to noise, every major metropolitan area in the United States will have a higher noise level than a rural area. Regarding noise within the hotel, we do have 24 hour security and will always send a security officer to investigate any noise complaint was once we receive notice of such an occurance. I am happy to hear that the staff was friendly and provided you excellent service.
Kind regards,
Darin Sturgill

Great Hotel at a Great Price

from fiuchris
We got a great deal on this hotel through Orbitz once we decided to go to San Francisco. At first I was worried that we had booked too quickly and maybe should consider other options, but my partner convinced me to keep our original plans. I was very glad that we stayed at the Whitcomb!

The location is great transit-wise - it is on the F-Line (historic streetcars) and is directly above the Civic Center Station of BART and MUNI Metro. It is also within walking distance of downtown and the financial district - it's not a short walk, but is enjoyable. I never felt unsafe at or around the hotel, and the hotel had great security. That said, it is close to the Tenderloin area so I would recommend taking the same precautions one would take in any large city, especially after dark. There are also many homeless people, although no more than other big cities.

Our flight came in very early and the staff was friendly and worked with us to let us check in at around noon, well before the posted time of 3pm. In addition, they were quick to fix a broken light in our restroom.

The rooms were actually larger than I expected given what we paid (less than $80/night) and the location. Our room faced Market St. and we did hear sirens and the streetcars rumble by, but did not have any problems falling asleep.

The Starbucks in the lobby was great for our early mornings!

I would recommend this hotel and would definitely stay here again when I return to San Francisco.
Management Response from DerwoodSF
Dear Guest,
Thank you so much for taking time to write a few words about your stay at the Hotel Whitcomb. I am so pleased that you found the staff friendly and helpful as well as finding the hotel location an excellent place to explore San Francisco. I hope to be able to personally welcome you back to the Hotel Whicomb in the near future.
Kind regards,
Darin Sturgill

Friendly staff and affordable!

from Mandolin01
The grandness of the hotel stops at the lobby (beautiful woodwork and old world charm.) The hallway leading to rooms has a "funky" smell ( combination hospital and restaurant smell. ) The carpet in the hallway sure needs to be steamed-clean (it is obviously dirty and could be the reason for the odor.) The room is small. I will not recommend it for guests with children, but it will get the job done for a couple who will spend most of their time outside. The bathroom is clean, but needs updating and some repairs. The sink area is tiny and really has no space to store your own toiletry stuff. The location is fine. It is very close to the post office, pharmacy, UPS store and a small diner across the street. The BART station, electric trolley or bus stop is right outside the hotel (very convenient feature.) You will not need a car to stroll around the city. The beggars and/or homeless are all over Market street and basically pose no harm - annoying, yes, but harmless in my eyes. It may be intimidating for folks who are from small towns, but, the scene is what I would expect from any big cities.

The staff was very friendly and accommodating. Kudos to the concierge who spent time answering our questions and provided us with materials we needed with a smile on her face. I can't really comment on the promptness of the front desk service, no other customers were around when we checked in.Overall, I would recommend this hotel for its central location and price, just don't expect Four Seasons or Ritz accommodations.
Management Response from DerwoodSF
Dear Guest,
Thank you for taking the time to write a few words about your stay at the Hotel Whitcomb. I am pleased to hear that the staff provided such excellent service, especially our concierge staff. As the hotel is almost 100 years old, we are always striving to keep the facilities in good working order and up to date. As you mentioned, the hotel has an excellent location to explore all that San Francisco has to offer. Please feel free to contact me directly next time you are planning on staying with us as I would like to personally welcome you back to the Hotel Whitcomb.
Kind regards,
Darin Sturgill

A Pleasant Stay at Hotel Whitcomb

from SRNmama
My husband and I stayed at Hotel Whitcomb while we visited our daughter who lives in San Francisco. When we first walked into the Whitcomb we were taken aback by the beautiful lobby with it's original historic charm. The staff was friendly and prompt and breakfast as the restaurant was excellent. Now, I am a very light sleeper and quite picky about where I sleep. I usually have the worst time sleeping in uncomfortable hotel beds but this was not the case with Hotel Whitcomb. The beds as well as the pillows were very comfortable. Overall our experience at Hotel Whitcomb was very pleasant and we would stay there again. The only con would be the road noise if your room faces the front of the hotel but that is to be expected when staying in the city.

Having Starbucks right down stairs was also a perk!
Management Response from DerwoodSF
Dear Guest,
Thank you so much for taking the time to write a few words about your stay at Hotel Whitcomb. I am so pleased to hear that you enjoyed the service as well as the historic ambience the hotel provides. I look forward to personally welcoming you back in the near future!
Kind regards,
Darin Sturgill

Old hotel, small rooms, sketchy neighbourhood

from Jeffreyk951
We stayed for 4 nights, for a conference at the Moscone. The hotel itself is old. It is nearly 100 years old from what I gather. It has been renovated and at one time was probably one of the cities nicer hotels. It is close to the Moscone center (10 min walk), and the BART (subway) is no more than 20 feet from the main entrance. Street cars pass directly in front of the building.

The neighbourhood, is the major downside to the hotel. From what I can gather, it is one of the lower income neighbourhoods. There are many homeless and mentally ill people wandering there during the night and day. I came across 1-2 beggars who actively asked for money. Nothing threatening but it just gives you an idea for the neighbourhood. Someone had written that their baggage was stolen -- I can see that happening. Many homeless going throught the garbage and trying to sell stuff (CDs, DVDs, cell phones etc that may have been stolen). There are constantly sirens and traffic noise around.

Parking is $23 a day (Valet only). The lot attendants were friendly enough but were a little hard on the cars from what I could see. (accelerating hard, jamming the brakes etc.) But they are there 24 hours a day so they watch the cars.

The entrance and lobby are quite nice -- marble and granite. Wood support beams and plenty of brass. Service was pleasant and fast. There free wireless internet (slow) throughout the building and a business center with 4-5 computers. There is a Starbucks and a restaurant (pretty good but expensive).

In the evenings there are several staff acting as security checking people as they come in. Inside, I felt safe.

The hallways are huge and old. 12 foot ceilings with crystal chandeliers (it was quite dark). There are big mirrors at the ends of the halls that are slightly warped. This gives the place a very old and spooky feel.

The rooms are small, old but clean. The bathrooms are a little bigger than those on a cruise ship. I could barely stand in it without touching the door or the sink. It was clean enough and everything worked but it is not modern by any means. Some plugs are 2 prong, so I had to go looking for something compatible with my laptop. There was no safe, although there were a limited number of small safety boxes at the front desk.

So all in all, for a conference it is "ok". It is a convenient location. If I were female and traveling alone I would not advise this location. Market street in general is fairly seedy, so stay out of this area. I would not return to this hotel.
Management Response from DerwoodSF
Dear Guest,
Thank you for taking the time to write a few words about your stay at the Hotel Whitcomb. As you may know, the hotel is part of the prestigous Historic Hotels of America group. As the hotel is almost 100 years old, there are many aspects to the property that give it that rich sense of history. We have also recently opened our very own "Hall of History", detailing many proud moments from the Hotel Whitcomb's past. I hope to personally welcome you back to the hotel in the near future.
Kind regards,
Darin Sturgill

Classic style at the Whitcomb

from The_Boarder_Line
A discount website got me two weekend nights at the Whitcomb for way cheaper than anyplace else downtown. This might mean I got the worst room in the place - but apart from a blah view (look - a monolithic Holiday Inn!), my room was terrific: clean and comfortable, with little to no street or hallway noise. It wasn't large, but it was cozy, and the tasteful decor & furnishings had The Whitcomb's biggest advantage: Character. The rooms, the hallways, and the inviting lobby all feel old-school grand while still being friendly. The staff was welcoming too.

As far as the location, the nearby transit puts many varied attractions within easy reach. Truth be told, some sketchy characters do drift outside the Whitcomb. They're also at the nearby public library and even at well-heeled areas like Union Square. They are not in the hotel. While I wouldn't want to loiter outside or stroll around the block late at night, I never felt unsafe here ... be sensible, stay alert, and enjoy yourself.
Management Response from DerwoodSF
Dear Guest,
Thank you for taking time to write a few words about your stay with us. As you mentioned, the hotel is in an excellent location for site seeing in San Francisco, as all major public transportation is just a few steps from our front door. Thank you also for your kind words about the staff. I am so pleased they provided you with the excellent service we strive for everyday. I personally look forward to welcoming you back to the Hotel Whitcomb on your next stay.
Kind regards,
Darin Sturgill

the Whitcomb in San Francisco, lavish and location at this price, wow

from vegaspokergods
I choose the Whitcomb due to it's great price and location downtown but was very suprised by the beauty of the hotel and the rooms. Its hard to beat the ease of getting to the hotel. BART and MUNI stop right at the front door. I was very tired when I arrived due to flight delays and they managed to get me an early checkin. The Staff was very friendly and the room was nice with a great view of city hall. This was my first time staying at the Whitcomb but not my last as I am coming back in March for a wedding.
Management Response from DerwoodSF
Dear Guest,
I am so pleased that you enjoyed your stay with us at the Hotel Whitcomb. As you mentioned, the hotel is very centrally located with close proximity to all major public transportation, thus making the hotel an excellent location for business or pleasure while in San Francisco. The staff and I look forward to welcoming you back for your future wedding plans!
Kind regards,
Darin Sturgill

Top Local Tips for San Francisco

Attention visiting hipsters The BART train can take you to the Mission, home of true indie theatres and unique shops and restaurants. Plus, you can walk to a huge Goodwill at Mission and 12th (?) with a pretty snazzy collection of good-condition clothes.

Marin Headlands The best views of the Golden Gate Bridge we found are from the Marin Headlands. We were coming north (from Napa) through Marin County on US-101. Take the exit immediately before the bridge. The first parking lot allows you to park and walk under the bridge to get to the bridge sidewalk access. If you continue up the steep, winding road you will pass numerous breathtaking vistas of the bridge, the skyline, and the ocean!

weekend passport get the MUNI passport if you don't have a car and you want to travel around the city. It's cheaper than taking a cab. Also, if you're leaving SFO, take the BART since it only costs $5.15 compared to $30-$40 if you use a taxi.

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Other names for Hotel Whitcomb

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  • san fransico hotels
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  • hotel whitcomb
  • Address: 1231 Market Street - San Francisco - California - 94103 - United States
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"Excellent Location" - H. Yamaguchi

"Unsafe area" - JeanLuc Berry

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