Part of the old guard of San Francisco lodging, this legendary hotel offers two wings with distinctly different experiences. The Historic Building is classic and sophisticated, offering Empire-style rooms painted in creams and powder blues. By contrast, the Tower Building’s glass elevators show their 1970s origins, but the contemporary rooms—clean lines, cream-on-white coloring—are wholly modern. (Both wings’ renovations are scheduled for completion by spring 2009.) Chef Michael Mina’s eponymous restaurant draws an epicurean crowd with its New American tasting menu, while the just-opened Clock Bar offers smaller bites in a more casual environment. There’s also a full-service spa and a large health club, and you’re blocks from Union Square.

The Westin St. Francis Amenities:

• 1,195 rooms, 34 suites. High-speed Internet access. Restaurant, bar. Airport transportation available. Fitness center. Pool. Tennis. Spa. Business center.