Columbus Motor Inn

With a location just a few blocks from Fisherman’s Wharf (but far enough away to avoid the touristy chaos), the easy, efficient Columbus Motor Inn offers comfort and convenience. Its 46 rooms may not ooze character, but they are large, modern and well located for city exploration.

Guest rooms are standard mid-range hotel fare, with wooden furniture, papered walls, a table and chairs and space to spare. There are few extras here, but you’ll find standard amenities, including coffee and tea facilities, a telephone, large flat-screen television and free Wi-Fi. Street rooms have small balconies that look out on Columbus Street, but interior rooms are much quieter.

Private bathrooms are large, modern and very clean. They have warm yellow walls, bath/shower combos, toiletries and a hair dryer.

The hotel is not a place of friendly charms. Its lobby is utilitarian and there are no common areas that invite lingering. But true to its name, the Columbus Motor Inn is one of the few hotels in the city that offers free parking, though its location renders a car unnecessary for most major exploration.

The wharf, Ghiradelli Square, Chinatown and Union Square are all within walking distance. The heart of North Beach, with its sundry restaurants (try the lively, delicious Steps of Rome) is just a five-minute walk, and even closer are major entertainment hotspots like local favorite Cobb’s Comedy Club and famous music venue Bimbo’s 365.