If we HAD to choose a ‘must-see’ item on this list — because they all are ;) — it would be the Palace Hotel. The hotel is a historic, iconic landmark in this city, originally built in 1875 by William Ralston and William Sharon and designed by architect, J.P. Gaynor. However after the 1906 earthquake, the hotel had to be completely rebuilt and the new hotel was designed by Trowbridge and Livingston, who created the opulent, Belle-Époque spaces seen today.

Since then, the hotel owners have dedicated themselves to preserving the historical details while adding modern amenities, keeping true to the original design and integrity of the hotel (fun fact: the Palace Hotel is SF’s only interior landmark). If you do stay here, you can enjoy the sky-lit indoor pool and take full advantage of their top-tiered concierge services — the team knows the city like the back of their hand and can provide recommendations for your visit.

The Palace is in the heart of downtown San Francisco and open to all who wander in. You will catch tourists casually peek inside to marvel at the Austrian crystal chandeliers that float above The Garden Court, and spot locals waiting for friends at The Pied Piper Bar before carrying on with their nightly activities. The entire interior space is filled natural light, creating a warm, welcoming ambiance for all guests (even if you’re not staying there). Locals know The Garden Court is the best place in the city to enjoy an afternoon tea and Sunday brunch. The Palace has made its mark in culinary history by being credited with the invention of the Boothby cocktail, green goddess salad dressing, and turkey tetrazzini. So what’s the best time of the year to visit, you ask? CHRISTMAS — The Garden Court gets dazzled and dressed up with gigantic holiday trees decorated with beautiful ornaments. Plus, you can take part in the Palace’s grand holiday brunch assortment while basking in the holiday spirit.

Bonus: Did you know that the original design of the courtyard had a circular driveway for horse carriages to enter into the hotel? Now that’s making an entrance!

Photo credit: Jason Dewey Photography