Orchard Hotel050

The Orchard Hotel, just off Union Square, offers quiet luxury for the whole family. Just walking through the doors into the lobby sets the stage for the warm and soothing experience guaranteed to guests at this European-style boutique hotel.

A trickling fountain is the backdrop for a friendly front desk staff who greet guests by name as they come and go, the walls boast original and artsy black and white photographs of San Francisco (taken by renowned photographer Helmut Horn), and inside the rooms, the Orchard forgoes traditional florals or trendy bright colors, and instead uses soothing and rich shades of gold, cream, red, and black.

The 104 rooms in the hotel (all non-smoking) are filled with luxurious details like down comforters; soft, cotton robes and slippers; plush towels; and Aveda bath products.

For families with small children, the ideal room is the Orchard's two-room suite with a king bed in one room, and a pullout queen sofa in the other. The rooms, with a door between, each have their own climate control and television/DVD player. The shared bathroom is large enough for a couple family members at a time - with both a standing shower and a separate bathtub, and lots of counter space. There are plenty of yummy snacks in the mini-bar, with room for a bottle or two of baby's milk that may need stored.

Families with teenage children might consider booking the king room that connects to the room with two twins. It allows for lots of privacy, but easy visiting (chaperoning) access, too. A smaller family, with just a baby, could enjoy the comfort a room with a king bed. A crib is available upon request. A playpen and stroller are also available.

The Orchard's other amenities include a buffet breakfast in the hotel's lovely Vignette Restaurant, an exercise room, free wifi, laptop safes, same day laundry service, room service, and a daily newspaper. The hotel uses all organic products for housekeeping - a big plus for guests with allergies or environmental concerns.

The hotel is located near the heart of one of San Francisco's most popular shopping and theater districts, just steps from the Powell Street Cable Car line.