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4-star hotel Check-in 16:00 · Check-out 12:00

University Club of San Francisco

Experience the charm of the University Club of San Francisco, rated 4.5 stars, offering stunning city views, exceptional dining, and a rich historic ambiance. Ideal for weddings and leisure, this upscale venue is steps away from iconic attractions like Al

800 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States View on map
9/10
Exceptional Based on 292 recent guest reviews
Free Wi-Fi Free breakfast Accessible Kid-friendly Restaurant
What recent guests emphasize

Charming historic ambiance with attentive service

Guests appreciate the unique vintage character, scenic city views, and friendly staff, while noting some areas show signs of age and limited modern amenities.

Guests often praise

  • Beautiful historic building with antiques and a museum-like atmosphere.
  • Outstanding, attentive, and accommodating service from staff throughout stays and events.
  • Great city and skyline views, especially popular for special occasions like weddings.
  • Enjoyable restaurant with good food and a comfortable dining experience.
  • Complimentary breakfast contributing to a convenient stay.

Worth knowing

  • Facilities show signs of age, with some rooms and floors described as tired or creaky.
  • Some guests experienced limited maintenance issues, such as non-working showers or plumbing delays in shared areas.
  • No air conditioning or pool; heating is provided in rooms where needed.
  • Parking is not available on site, and no airport shuttle service is offered.
  • Fitness center and bar available but gym facilities may be in a separate building.

Best for

  • Visitors seeking a boutique, character-rich hotel with historic charm.
  • Guests who appreciate a quiet, upscale neighborhood setting near cultural attractions.
  • Couples or groups celebrating special events such as weddings.
  • Travelers looking for convenient access to downtown sights like museums and the Golden Gate Bridge.
  • Those valuing attentive service and a vintage ambiance over modern hotel luxury.
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About this property

Welcome to University Club of San Francisco

The University Club of San Francisco, located at 800 Powell St, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern convenience, earning it a commendable rating of 4.5 stars. This private club is a splendid choice for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the elegance of San Francisco.

Guests often rave about the beautiful setting of the club, making it an excellent venue for special occasions. One recent wedding guest praised the venue's stunning ambiance and the highly attentive staff, particularly highlighting the exceptional service provided by Gavin and Yvonne during the planning process and event execution. Such personal touches truly make the University Club stand out.

However, it’s important to note that this historic building does come with its quirks. Some reviews point out that while the decor may evoke a feeling of vintage luxury, certain amenities, like the fitness center and facilities, have room for improvement. For example, one guest noted issues with the water in the separate gym building, and another mentioned the need for additional heating in rooms. Still, the charm of antiquity seems to captivate many, transporting visitors back in time, reminiscent of the grandeur found in productions like Downton Abbey.

The location is truly stellar, nestled in a historic upscale neighborhood famous for its steep streets and rich culture. Visitors are within proximity to iconic attractions such as the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Alcatraz Island, and the Golden Gate Bridge, making it an ideal spot for both leisure and exploration.

Dining options at the club also receive high marks, with guests complimenting the quality of the food served at the in-house restaurant. The availability of free breakfast is a lovely perk, enhancing the overall experience for both overnight guests and members.

In summary, the University Club of San Francisco is a distinguished venue that elegantly marries historical significance with contemporary hospitality. While it may have some areas for enhancement, the personal service, remarkable location, and vintage appeal create a memorable experience. It is highly recommended for those seeking a unique stay or a beautiful venue for special celebrations.

Summary compiled by GoHotelly editors from verified guest reviews, partner descriptions and editorial notes.
Facilities & essentials

What's on-site and what you should know before you arrive

The short version: what's available day-to-day, and the key practical details most travelers search for.

Most popular facilities

Free Wi-Fi
Free breakfast
Accessible
Kid-friendly
Restaurant
Fitness center
Bar
Smoke-free

Not available at this property

Parking
Pool
Air-conditioned
Pet-friendly
Airport shuttle
Verified guest reviews

What recent guests are actually saying

Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.

N
nikw502 Aug 01, 2025
10

We recently had our wedding here and could not be happier. The staff were great and the space was beautiful. Best location in the city for out of towners, amazing view and ambiance. Gavin and Yvonne were incredibly nice, attentive, and accommodating through the entire planning process and the event itself. Outstanding!

JB
Juan Barillas Jul 01, 2025
10

I stayed here hoping to use the Sauna and their steam room. I didn't end up using it. But generally the place was like a museum, definitely old. The room was ok, the floors make the wood sound when walking. It had a great view, and it felt I traveled back at the like Downtown Abbey. I would definitely come back, it was not perfect but had a great vintage experience

JL
john Lee May 30, 2025
8.0

The building is what it is. What do I mean by that? The building is old. In the separate building which housed the gym and squash courts, the water had not worked for several days. Which meant the toilets had not been flushed for several days. The front desk staff does nothing to help with luggage. Now I understand that it is a private club, and that is not their role. But they could hold the door open. The continental breakfast is pathetic. You can find better hotels cheaper.

SH
Sami Hero May 28, 2025
8.0

Very historic building. Rooms are a bit tired and need the extra heaters that are luckily in the room. Super nice and effective service, great food in the restaurant.

DR
Debasis R Apr 11, 2025
10

Watched 4th July fireworks from the street. Great location.

A_Y
Alfred_plays _RBX yt Apr 04, 2025
10

Awesome place for wedding and had nice city view on the 4th floor. I would definitely recommend this place to friends and others.

Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find University Club of San Francisco

Nob Hill, San Francisco, CA, USA

Historic upscale neighborhood with steep streets, luxury hotels & the Cable Car Museum.

  • Powell St & Sacramento St 1 min Walk
  • Powell St & California St 1 min Walk
  • California St & Powell St 1 min Walk
  • San Francisco International Airport 26 min Car · 1 hr 10 Transit
  • San Jose Mineta International Airport 58 min Car · 1 hr 36 Transit
  • Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport 31 min Car · 49 min Transit
Things to do nearby

Worth the walk or a quick ride

Curated spots travelers usually pair with a stay in California. Distances are rough real-world times, not straight-line.

Alcatraz Island 44,411 reviews

Alcatraz Island

San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

4.7 · Historical Place
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art 16,398 reviews

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

151 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

4.6 · Modern Art Museum
Golden Gate Bridge 85,478 reviews

Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Brg, San Francisco, CA, United States

4.8 · Bridge
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