You can do better than Holidayy Inn Express at Fisherman's Wharf
Fellow members,
The wife and I stayed at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Fisherman's Wharf in early July. I believe there is another Holiday Inn Express on Fishermen's Wharf, but this review is for Holiday Inn Express and SUITES. The location is excellent for the Wharf experience. Lots of shops, restaurants, and a wonderful view. The breakfast is very adequate, what you usually get at Holiday Inn.
There were a few issues with this property, which may or may not have been taken care of. For a large hotel, I would expect more than 2 elevators, and since one was not working this made for some long wait time. The remote on our TV did not always work, so you used the controls on the front. None of these items are deal breakers.
My biggest problem was the valet parking. Upon arrrivng there was a large sign 'Valet parking $45 per night', which was a real surprise. Their website did not mention the cost for parking and I found this to be abusive. Add tax and the parking for one day was over $50. The attendant said there wasn't much choice for the area (what else could he say). Not knowing there was an outdoor lot one-half block away that would have saved a bunch I paid the fee.
The cable cars are only one block from the hotel, but the line was soon long (probable one hour +), we walked to China town, about one and one half miles.
The hotel in general was just OK, but add the outrageous parking and I would suggest you can do better. Maybe the financial district and then walk to various spots of interest.
Daytraveler