If you are interested in staying in the heart of downtown, Union Square is the best location for you. With tons of shopping, restaurants, and art galleries, there is boundless entertainment in Union Square. Also, it is incredibly close to public transit, so you can easily visit any of the other attractions in San Francisco.
Once considered the number one tourist attraction in San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf is an excellent place to stay for families. There are many attractions in this area, including Alcatraz Island, Ghirardelli Square, and Pier 39. For families looking for a quieter location, they should consider staying in Russian Hill. It is within walking distance to Fisherman’s Wharf yet is in a more residential neighbourhood keeping you out of the bustle.
For lively nightlife, the Mission District or the Castro are the ideal areas to stay.