Families Play Together in San Francisco at Hotel Zephyr

Hotels are never just beds when we travel. Where we stay is always an integral part of our travel experience, and usually it’s one that enhances it. Ciao Bambino likes nothing better than finding hotels that embody the spirit of a destination in a unique way — this is exactly what Hotel Zephyr offers families visiting San Francisco.

A new boutique hotel, Hotel Zephyr is designed in a nautical theme incorporating play — literally — into private and public guest spaces, making the property an all-age indoor and outdoor playground in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf.

Here’s what we like about Hotel Zephyr for families.

Kid-Friendly Review of Hotel Zephyr San Francisco

A lobby lounge is like an outfit: an integral part of the first impression. At Hotel Zephyr, the lounge sets the tone for the entire property experience. It’s a living room — albeit a big one — with guests reading, talking and relaxing in the plethora of comfortable communal seating. This space is anything but a standard hotel-ish lobby that could be anywhere in the world. Filled with locally inspired art, city photographs and nautical-themed accents, Hotel Zephyr’s lounge is all about being in San Francisco.

Like everything at Hotel Zephyr, the lounge is eclectic and fun with bright, bold colors; industrial metal finishes, such as shipping textures, complete the look. Because there is no onsite restaurant or formal table service in the lounge, guests don’t feel like they are on the clock and beholden to order something in exchange for hanging out, which for families and loitering tourists is bliss.

Room to Play Inside and Out

The hub for families at Hotel Zephyr is the cool playroom with shuffleboard, pool and Ping Pong, and video games. Getting kids to want to leave the space is the one and only challenge.

The playroom opens up to a massive outdoor garden with firepits and more games, including shuffleboard and life-size Connect 4. Soon an Airstream food truck will open with snacks and beverages. Given the appealing and unique setup, locals as well as tourists will come to take advantage of this awesome space where all ages can relax and laugh together any time of year.

Family-Ready Guestrooms

Guestrooms incorporate the same fun nautical theme as the rest of the property. In-room dartboards are a special treat for everyone except, perhaps, the guests next door. Some rooms have fantastic views over the bay and city skyline. The design is trendy and comfortable.

Families can choose between connecting rooms and Premium Waterfront One- and Two-Bedroom Suites, sleeping four to six people.

Very San Francisco Location

The location in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf provides a very San Francisco location from which to explore the city. Walk out to foghorns and cable cars, not to mention some of the best clam chowder and sourdough bread in the city. It’s tourist central right here, and though the downside is an oversupply of souvenir shops, convenience is king. Families can walk to so many fantastic places from the hotel, including North Beach, Ghiradelli Square and the Marina.

Hotel Zephyr is pet-friendly too!

Relevant Links:

Best family hotels and things to do in San Francisco

Things to do in the Presidio with kids

Must-see stops on a Central Coast California road trip

Family road trips offer year-round fun in California

Editor’s note: Amie received a media rate at Hotel Zephyr. As always, our thoughts and opinions on Ciao Bambino are our own. Photos by Amie O’Shaughnessy and Hotel Zephyr.