The Kensington Park Hotel is a really special place. The welcome I received at check-in was perfect. They even handled a perishable package that arrived before I did and they made me feel like a VIP. They were so friendly and attentive, especially Bob, who seemed to always be around when I needed help.

THE HOTEL is an original Elks hotel from the 1920s located in a safe well trafficked part of town. It looks very historic and the lobby has beautiful architectural features. There's a theater on the second floor and Elks meeting rooms on some of the other floors. The sense of history and the old world style are a real bonus to staying here. People here on TA have complained about smells and noisy pipes; I didn't encounter either. The lobby was lovely.

THE LOCATION can't be beat. It's right off Union Square where the iconic cable cars run up and down the hill. Theaters, restaurants and all the major shopping hotspots are right outside the door. It's easy to get cabs. For the price and quality, this is probably one of the best hotels in downtown SF.

THE ROOM was a little bit of a let down after seeing the beautiful lobby which has so much style and character. While the room was also stylish and recently updated, it could have been a little cleaner. It felt dusty, and the housekeeper missed some of the finer details like wiping down bathroom walls and doors. The bathroom floor tiles and tub look original from the 1920s and need some attention. Replacing some of the old baseboards and a good thorough dusting would go a long way. The mattress was a little worn but there was a feather bed to make up for that and it worked. I definitely slept well. The bedding was all clean, but If you have a problem with feathers, thats something you want to ask about in advance. There is alot of down on the bed. All the rest of the bath fixtures and room furniture are very new and in great shape. I liked the work desk, ample chairs, big closet and amenities like the flat screen tv, ceiling fan, iron and coffee maker. There were plenty of power outlets and everything was well placed. Even though I have some critiques, the room was totally fine and I was happy and comfortable. After the first day I felt like this was home. I would absolutely stay here again.

EXTRA TIPS: you can get a shared van to and from the airport for $15 - $17 each way. If you have a car, dont forget the high parking expense. This is downtown in a historic building not a 40 story mega hotel, so expect street noise. Thats part of the ambiance. I asked for a quiet room and they accommodated me on a higher floor, but I still heard the some sounds of the city. this actually added to the character, especially the jazz trumpeter who did a short concert on the street each night. Checkout is at noon and if you need a late checkout, they won't confirm it until they morning of departure. The wireless works very well. Theres no restaurant on site, but there is one right next door, so close it's almost like it's in the hotel. I had good service there but the food was just so so, especially for the price. It's better to take advantage of their happy hour discounted food and drinks.

Overall, if you get a good rate here, dont hesitate.

My daughter & I stayed here Friday evening. We got there around 4:30 & when we checked in we were told that there was sherry if we would like some. Well, of course! We got up to the room . It's an older type room, but very comfortable facing Union Square. It's close to shopping, restaurants & public transportation.
I have to say that the customer serviced in this hotel is amazing! The front desk & Rueben, the concierge were so much help and with smiles!
Yes, it is a little noisy. Every hotel that I've ever been in in San Francisco is. Just bring earplugs if you're a light sleeper
Will we go back? Yes :)

Stayed at the kensington park hotel at end of Jan-start of Feb. we were a day late checking in due to missed flights and when we arrived our room was not ready because they sold the room for the night we missed. Only downside. The hotel is central to union square and Powell st. Cannot get any better in terms of a base point to shop San Fran. The rooms are spacious and bathroom is old in decor but functional. The staff are very friendly and always had a good morning for us. There is no gym but there is access to a near by Hotel Diva gym if you need. All in all a pleasant stay at the hotel and we would recommend it for a stay in beautiful San Fran, even with all the homeless people looking for handouts you cannot be but amazed by its beauty.

Stayed at the hotel in January, 2013. The hotel is comfortable and clean with a great location across the street from the Westin St. Francis. Nice, but not lavish. The bathroom is rather small, but for the $140 price in downtown San Francisco, it would be difficult to find a better hotel. I'll stay again next time in town on business or with family.