Kimpton Alton Hotel: Retro-Chic Stay at Fisherman’s Wharf

Alex MedinaSusanica Tam
Alex Medina - Staff Writer Susanica Tam - Editor 4 Min Read
Photo by Mikhail Nilov

The Kimpton Alton Hotel, which opened its doors in May 2021, brings a fresh, retro-chic vibe to San Francisco’s iconic Fisherman’s Wharf neighborhood. This 248-room boutique hotel offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and the city skyline, along with unique amenities that cater to the modern traveler.

Key Points

  • The Kimpton Alton Hotel embraces the aesthetic of the original 1970s building it occupies, with unique furnishings representing an array of retro styles.
  • The hotel offers a 986-square-foot meeting space called the Studio, which features natural light from a large skylight.
  • Guests can enjoy iconic views of either the San Francisco Bay or the city from the hotel’s guest rooms.

Retro-Chic Design and Amenities

The Alton’s design pays homage to the original 1970s building it occupies. The hotel’s unique furnishings represent an array of retro styles, while the brand’s signature Living Room public space features dimmed lighting, vintage area rugs, blonde-wood floors, an eclectic art collection, and an earthy color palette.

Guest rooms are outfitted with turntables and a few records, providing a bit of retro rock ‘n’ roll character to the stay. A lending library of vinyl selections is available to all who want to spin more favorites.

Dining and Wellness

The hotel’s signature restaurant, Abaca, is scheduled to open at the end of June 2021. Acclaimed local chef Francis Ang, originally from Manila, has collaborated with his wife, Dian, to put a Filipino twist on California cuisine and cocktails. A 30-seat patio will provide outdoor seating along Jones Street.

Wellness amenities at the Kimpton Alton Hotel include:

  • A 24-hour fitness center with two Peloton bikes
  • Use of hotel bicycles to explore surrounding neighborhoods
  • Morning coffee and tea service, and evening social hours, both served in the Living Room

Location and Nearby Attractions

The Kimpton Alton Hotel is located in the heart of San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf, a popular tourist destination known for its seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and street performers. Guests can easily walk to nearby attractions such as:

  • Pier 39, home to sea lions, shops, and restaurants
  • Ghirardelli Square, a former chocolate factory turned shopping and dining complex
  • The Embarcadero, a waterfront promenade with stunning views of the San Francisco Bay
  • Alcatraz Island, the infamous former prison accessible by ferry from Pier 33

FAQ

What types of rooms are available at the Kimpton Alton Hotel?

The hotel offers 248 guest rooms, including eight spa rooms with large soaking tubs and two spacious one-bedroom suites with views of Alcatraz.

Is parking available at the hotel?

Yes, the Kimpton Alton Hotel offers valet parking for guests.

Are pets allowed at the Kimpton Alton Hotel?

Yes, the hotel is pet-friendly and welcomes furry companions.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in time is 3:00 PM, and check-out time is 12:00 PM.

Is there a resort fee?

Yes, the hotel charges a daily resort fee, which includes amenities such as Wi-Fi, fitness center access, and morning coffee and tea service.

The Kimpton Alton Hotel offers a unique, retro-chic experience in the heart of San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf. With its stunning views, unique amenities, and prime location, this boutique hotel is an ideal choice for travelers seeking a memorable stay in the City by the Bay.

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Staff Writer
Alex Medina is a former CollegeUnified alumni (2018-2019). He is currently the staff writer for CollegeUnified. After graduating from Francisco Bravo Medical Magnet High School in 2015, he pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and New Media at Mount Saint Mary’s University. alex.medina@collegeunified.com
Editor
Susanica Tam is an equity-minded editor, and photo professional that calls CollegeUnified home. She leads the inaugural Fall 2024 photojournalism cohort along with Kate Valdez. Susanica is especially interested in culture, language, and identity stories and is the first person in her family to be born in the U.S. She attended the USC School of Journalism on scholarship and most recently also the Transom Storytelling Workshop. susanica.tam@collegeunified.com