Hotel Zeppelin, San Francisco

I lived in San Francisco during college so coming to visit the city and see all the changes was exciting. The Hotel Zeppelin was built in a once slightly shabby area that has since come alive with new hotels and restaurants for travelers looking for something different. We arrived at noon on a Friday afternoon and were immediately greeted by the hotel staff at the front desk. They were able to accommodate an early check-in, completed in just a few minutes. The lobby is as hip as the hotel name sounds, but it also offered a cozy atmosphere, with a roaring fire and comfy couches and chairs in the lounge area. Unique wall art, statues and lighting remind you of the cool factor.

Our premier room was even more fun than I expected. Walking into the small entrance, you’re met with the bar with an espresso machine, mini fridge and lots of complimentary water; this all sits across from a generous, full-sized mirror. The heather gray walls and high ceiling gave the room an airy feel, and decent light came through the full wall of windows, despite the fire escape just outside. Two full beds were separated by a large side table, which had double-sided outlets for everyone’s electronics and a chic green lamp. Adjacent sat the lounge area with full-sized couches and funky tie-dye pillows next to a 55-inch, mounted TV.

A great John Boos desk had plenty of space and outlets. I was even more delighted by the bottle of Pinot Noir and Circus Animal Cookies tel sitting atop it. By far the best part of the room was the ceiling light which, when turned on, projects a peace sign and the word “love” on the ceiling.

The slate-tiled bathroom was wallpapered with grey-and-white lettered names of famous bands like the Doors and Santana. A single, raised black bowl sink on a white counter had plenty of space for personal and beauty products. Three hanging bulbs surrounded a large mirror and gave great lighting. I loved the Roil products offered to guests, including the body lotion and wash. The stand-alone, glass-enclosed shower was roomy and had great water pressure.

I am a robe snob, and the Zeppelin’s jersey hooded robes were comfortable, not overly large, and soft.

The hotel offers room service, but I recommend trying the Rambler Bar & Restaurant, the on-property eatery. On Friday and Saturday nights it’s a typical San Francisco eatery with loud music and groups of young and old gathering together. The pizzas are cooked in a stone oven, and the pumpkin soup was perfect for a colder evening.

The fitness center sits on the upper floors of the hotel, giving you a unique sight of the San Francisco skyline while using the modern cardio and weights — perfect if it’s a rainy or windy afternoon. If you are up for a challenge, try walking up Powell Street’s steep incline through Nob and Russian hill; just follow the cable car!

Hotel Zeppelin, San Francisco

545 Post Street
San Francisco, California 94102