Last minute solo trip hotel suggestions?

Question

Hi everyone. I originally planned another trip but need to change the destination. Looking to do a last minute trip. Interested in the 17-mile drive tour, golden gate bridge, and a city tour. Planning about 4 nights. Looking for a nice central place to stay. I had previously looked at fisherman's wharf but that does seem touristy. I hear good things about union square. Looking for suggestions on a nice safe place to stay - budget around $300 per night with possible soaking tub in room. Also, are restaurants allergy friendly? Willing to use public transit to get around. Thanks for your help in advance...

Answer

For a last-minute solo trip to San Francisco with your interests and budget, Union Square is indeed a great choice. It’s centrally located, relatively safe, and gives you easy access to public transit, shopping, and dining options. It’s less touristy than Fisherman’s Wharf while still being convenient for getting around the city.

Regarding hotels around your $300 per night budget with potential soaking tubs, here are some suggestions:

Hotel Nikko San Francisco – Centrally located near Union Square, modern rooms, some suites feature deep soaking tubs, indoor pool, and very allergy-friendly with hypoallergenic bedding options.
Penthouse or suite at the Grand Hyatt – Also Union Square, some upgraded rooms include soaking tubs. Central location makes it easy to catch cable cars or walk to Powell Street for city tours.
Handlery Union Square Hotel – Classic San Francisco hotel, some rooms have large tubs. Allergy-conscious dining and accommodations upon request.
Kimpton Sir Francis Drake – Boutique feel, centrally located, some suites with soaking tubs, and Kimpton is known for accommodating dietary restrictions and allergies in their restaurants.

For city transit, you can easily use the MUNI buses, cable cars, and BART to reach the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, or downtown areas. Many hotels will provide maps and advice for public transit routes.

As for restaurants and allergy-friendliness:

Most Union Square and downtown restaurants are familiar with common allergies and can adjust menus upon request, especially for gluten, nuts, and dairy.
Chain restaurants near Union Square such as Cheesecake Factory, The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus, and even local spots like Mourad or Boulevard can accommodate allergies.
Always call ahead or mention your allergies when booking or upon arrival to ensure staff are aware and prepared.

For day trips:

The 17-Mile Drive is doable as a day trip from SF, though it’s easier to rent a car for that portion.
Golden Gate Bridge can be visited by bike, bus, or rideshare. Walking across is also popular but can take 1–2 hours round trip.
City tours—consider a hop-on hop-off bus tour for flexibility, or book a guided walking or Segway tour to cover neighborhoods efficiently.

Overall, Union Square provides a safe, convenient base, with several hotels offering soaking tubs and allergy-conscious amenities, and excellent access to transit and day trips.

Last minute solo trip hotel suggestions?

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