Lovely, charming hotel. Warm staff. Only complaint (minor) is the low lighting in the room. Our suite's sitting area was practically in the dark day and night. Proximity to Gaslamp District and Horton Plaza a plus. Walking distance to USS Midway and Star of India,

This hotel is a landmark and the rooms are appropriately stunning. Very lovely accommodations and the drinks at the Grill were old school awesome (I enjoy a well-crafted cocktail, who doesn't?). This place is on the edge of the gaslamp district and has done me well on my several visits to San Diego. Easy driving access and good location. I ordered a movie one night (don't recommend that as they're crazy expensive) and we had tv issues for an hour. Someone came to fix the issue, but I never ended up watching said movie and they took the charge off (as they should, but with no hassle). Great experience both times I've been here and looking forward to the next. The grand lobby makes you feel extra special, if you like that sort of thing.

We stayed at the US Grant in San Diego after some research, as high end properties were hard to come by in the city due to the fact that most hotels of that category were located well outside San Diego proper, in La Jolla or Del Mar. We didn't find the Marina too appealing either since we wanted to be as close to the action (Gaslamp Quarter or Little Italy, Hillcrest was far off anyway) as possible. So, right before flying to the USA we came across The US Grant, which had very good reviews and a very nice appearance; to my surprise, room rates were incredibly affordable, so I immediately assumed there would be a catch.

Well, I was definitely wrong: right from our arrival we found the hotel to be sensational. A 1910 building with an enormous lobby, featuring beautiful carpets and ballrooms as well as a nice Christmas decoration. Check-in was speedy, although as it is often the case with big hotels I found the staff to be corteous and efficient albeit a bit cold and impersonal. Our car was properly taken care of (for US$35 a night) and we were escorted (through beautiful corridors) to our room on a high floor which, to my surprise, not only had great views over the city but had been completely renovated in a classic-chic style, with an ample bathroom (shower was not well-maintained, though), very comfy bed, a huge closet and overall modern facilities. We particularly liked a full-figure mirror at the entrance. There was complimentary bottled water as well as chocolate provided by the turndown service.

Breakfast was superb, too. It was à la carte but with plenty to choose from, and the staff was professional and attentive. A great way to start the day.

Location: unlike some reviewers, I didn't find it to be dodgy or scary. Granted there are some homeless around, as everywhere in San Diego, but it looks as if some people are scared off by the presence of poor people around. Not to mention it is perfectly located, within walking distance to all the action at the Gaslamp Quarter, adjacent to two great breweries and not-too-far from Little Italy on foot. You can also leisurely walk to Labrea Park or the Marina during daytime hours, so its location is also perfect for exploring the city's attraction. You can do no wrong with this one.

Overall, I was pleasantly surprised with the hotel and the value for money turned out to be excellent. If you want a good property outside the major chains at the Marina area or the luxurious hotels well far off San Diego, do not think twice.

Overall I would HIGHLY recommend the US Grant. My boyfriend & I had am amazing time here. Everyone we interacted with was beyond helpful - from concierge, to valet (in & out privileges), to Tom, the bar tender (we got to know him quite well). The customer service was superb! Clearly a lot of care and pride has been taken to the upkeep and appearance of this historic hotel. The room we stayed in was quite large (corner room) and the lobby was impressive. The only downside was that the hotel is just on the edge of where the neighborhood starts to get a bit dodgy. Although there were many homeless people on the streets, hardly anyone harassed you for money, etc. they were just very present in the general area. That being said, the proximity to Gas Lamp, restaurants, bars, shopping, etc. is perfect.