Safety around The Bartlett Hotel, block away from Tenderloin

Question

I'm thinking to book a stay at "The Bartlett Hotel and Guesthouse" which is above the Bartlett Hall bar, but I see that it's near the Tenderloin.

Would it be safe if I'll avoid going west of the Mason St and walk to the hotel using Cyril Magnin St or Powell St (and then couple of meters via O'Farrell St)?

Are those paths safe around 11pm?

I see that there are plenty of other hotels nearby (Hilton, Parc 55, Nikko) and restaurants/fast-foods/bars, so this gives some hope that there are also some ordinary people around also in the evening.

I found some older forum posts on tripadvisor that mention this hotel but considering the pace of how quickly everything changes, it would be good to know the current situation in the area.

Answer

The Bartlett Hotel and Guesthouse is indeed located close to the Tenderloin, a neighborhood in San Francisco known for a higher concentration of homelessness, drug activity, and occasional crime compared to other parts of downtown. While the hotel itself is generally safe, the surrounding streets after dark require caution.

If you plan to walk around 11pm, here are some considerations:

Walking via Powell St or Cyril Magnin St and avoiding streets west of Mason St is a reasonable strategy, as these streets are better lit and see more pedestrian traffic from nearby hotels, restaurants, and bars.
The area around O’Farrell St, even for a few meters, can feel less busy at night. Keep aware of your surroundings, stick to well-lit sidewalks, and avoid using your phone while walking.
Traveling in pairs or groups is generally safer than walking alone late at night.

Other nearby hotels like Hilton, Parc 55, and Nikko are located on busier streets, which usually have more “ordinary” pedestrian activity in the evenings. This can make the neighborhood feel safer in pockets, especially on main thoroughfares.

Additional safety tips:

Use rideshare services or taxis for late-night trips if you are unfamiliar with the area.
Avoid carrying valuables openly; keep phones and wallets secure.
Check for any recent local news updates or hotel advisories about the neighborhood, as situations can change rapidly.
If you’re uncomfortable with the proximity to Tenderloin, considering hotels one or two blocks east toward Union Square may offer additional peace of mind while still being central.

In summary, your walking route is reasonable and generally safe if you remain vigilant, but late-night walks in this area should be approached with caution. Using main streets, traveling with company, and being aware of surroundings are key. The hotel itself is fine, and the presence of nearby hotels and bars adds some safety through pedestrian traffic.

Safety around The Bartlett Hotel, block away from Tenderloin

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