For Cow Palace event-goers, the Holiday Inn San Francisco – Golden Gateway offers a strong mix of comfort (8.9) and location with free parking option. For serious walkability to the venue, properties near Geneva Avenue are key; however, most listed hotels require a short drive or rideshare. This list prioritizes properties with solid cleanliness and location scores for a reliable base.
You’re here for a show at the Cow Palace. These 20 San Francisco hotels are ranked to get you there with the least hassle.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties and over 44,100 total verified guest reviews to compile this list, prioritizing cleanliness scores 8.0+ and properties with reliable access to the Cow Palace area. The average guest score across all selected hotels is 8.1/10.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best overall value: #5 Hotel Nikko San Francisco→ Rates
#13 Orchard Hotel→ Rates - Best for free parking: #1 Inn on Broadway→ Rates
#7 Francisco Bay Inn→ Rates - Highest cleanliness score: #13 Orchard Hotel→ Rates
- Pet-friendly: #4 Beacon Grand→ Rates
#11 The Clift Royal Sonesta→ Rates - Best for SFO access: #12 Sonesta Select SFO→ Rates
#18 Embassy Suites SFO→ Rates - Cleanest & lowest price point: #15 Star Motel→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Inn on Broadway | (4900+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 2. Holiday Inn San Francisco – Golden Gateway | (4350+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 3. Samesun San Francisco | (4300+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 4. Beacon Grand, A Union Square Hotel | (3650+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 5. Hotel Nikko San Francisco | (3400+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 6. Nob Hill Hotel | (3050+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 7. Francisco Bay Inn | (2800+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 8. Amsterdam Hostel | (2050+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 9. Greenwich Inn | (2000+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 10. Nob Hill Motor Inn | (1950+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 11. The Clift Royal Sonesta San Francisco | (1800+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 12. Sonesta Select SFO Oyster Point | (1650+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 13. Orchard Hotel | (1550+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 14. The Mosser Hotel | (1300+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 15. Star Motel | (1200+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 16. Hilton San Francisco Union Square | (1050+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 17. Fairmont San Francisco | (900+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 18. Embassy Suites by Hilton SFO Oyster Point | (700+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 19. Best Western Red Coach Inn | (650+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
| 20. Hotel Garrett | (400+ Reviews) |
Check Rates |
In-Depth Reviews: Top Hotels Near Cow Palace, San Francisco
1. Inn on Broadway
The Vibe
Inn on Broadway sits on the Van Ness corridor, roughly a 10-15 minute drive from the Cow Palace. It’s a straightforward 2-star property that guests praise for spacious rooms and the rare San Francisco perk of free, on-site parking. The location scores an 8.8—convenient for accessing both the Cow Palace and other city spots.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with free WiFi (rated 7.7) and the property has an elevator. Guests frequently call out the bed comfort (8.3) and cleanliness (8.3). The massive bonus here is free private parking—huge for those driving to a Cow Palace event. Note that breakfast isn’t provided, and there is a $200 security deposit at check-in. Children 18+ are charged as adults, and pets aren’t allowed.
Choose this if: you’re driving to a Cow Palace show and don’t want to pay for parking—free on-site spots are the main draw here.
2. Holiday Inn San Francisco – Golden Gateway
The Vibe
This 3-star Holiday Inn offers a polished stay near Nob Hill, about a 10-minute drive from the Cow Palace. It’s rated Very Good at 8.4 overall, with strong scores across the board—cleanliness at 8.8, comfort at 8.9, and a Wi-Fi score of 9.1. Guests call out the good breakfast and the fact there’s no resort fee.
What You Actually Get
The property features an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi, air conditioning, and a fitness center. Parking is available on site (overnight is $40+tax). Breakfast options are included in some rates and are described as among the best for a family. Rooms have a city view option. Microwaves aren’t standard but can be requested at the front desk.
Choose this if: you want a reliable, mid-range hotel with a pool and good breakfast options before heading to the Cow Palace.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn San Francisco – Golden Gateway newly renovated with No →
3. Samesun San Francisco
The Vibe
Samesun is located in the Marina District on Lombard Street, about a 12-minute drive from the Cow Palace. With a stellar Location score of 9.2, guests love the neighborhood for its walkability to shops and restaurants. The hostel-style layout has shared rooms with curtained bunks for privacy—a budget-friendly option near the venue.
What You Actually Get
This property offers free WiFi (8.1), a buffet breakfast included in rates, and an elevator. There are lockers in the rooms for securing valuables (bring your own lock). Parking is free but first-come, first-served with 38 spots available. The check-in requires an ID outside of the Bay area, so it’s geared toward travelers.
Choose this if: you’re a solo traveler or group on a budget who wants a social vibe and a prime Marina District base near the Cow Palace.
4. Beacon Grand, A Union Square Hotel
The Vibe
Beacon Grand is a 4-star hotel in the heart of Union Square with a location score of 9.4. It’s about a 15-minute drive from the Cow Palace, but its central position makes it a great base for pre-show dinners or city exploring. Guests rave about the classic building and friendly staff (8.9).
What You Actually Get
This property offers free WiFi, a fitness center, an on-site restaurant open for breakfast, dinner, and cocktails, and private valet parking ($79+tax per night). Pets are allowed with a $75+tax cleaning fee per stay (dogs can’t be left unattended). An Urban Destination Fee applies per night, which includes premium Wi-Fi, two refillable water bottles, and local calls.
Choose this if: you want a central Union Square location with full-service amenities and are bringing a pet to a Cow Palace event.
Check Tonight’s Price for Beacon Grand, A Union Square Hotel →
5. Hotel Nikko San Francisco
The Vibe
Hotel Nikko is a 5-star property with an Excellent rating of 8.7 and a Cleanliness score of 9.2—one of the highest on this list. It’s a 4-minute walk to Union Square and about a 15-minute drive from the Cow Palace. Guests consistently mention the exceptional staff (9.1) and clean, relaxing atmosphere.
What You Actually Get
This hotel boasts an indoor swimming pool, two on-site restaurants, a very good breakfast (€44 option), and a fitness center with a clean locker room, steam room, and sauna. The pet-friendly policy allows pets on request with charges. Valet parking is available for $65+tax per night. A daily amenity fee of $39+tax includes Wi-Fi, fitness center, and pool access.
Choose this if: you want a luxury stay with top-tier cleanliness and relaxation amenities before or after a Cow Palace event.
6. Nob Hill Hotel
The Vibe
Originally established in 1906, this 4-star Nob Hill Hotel is all about old-world charm with marble flooring and ornate ceilings. It’s a 12-15 minute drive to the Cow Palace. The hotel has a dedicated following for its unique character, but be aware that there’s no air conditioning—rooms have fans.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with private bathrooms, free WiFi (8.3), and guests appreciate the on-site breakfast. The hotel has a fitness center and a restaurant. Private parking is available. Note that there’s no A/C, so summer stays might be warm. All rooms have their own bathrooms—no shared facilities here.
Choose this if: you’re a history buff who values character over modern amenities and don’t mind a lack of A/C.
7. Francisco Bay Inn
The Vibe
This 2-star inn sits right on the famous “crooked” Lombard Street, about a 10-minute drive from the Cow Palace. It scores an 8.1 overall and is a straightforward no-frills option. Guests consistently mention clean rooms and comfortable beds, with the free parking being a standout perk.
What You Actually Get
Francisco Bay Inn features free WiFi (8.5), free private parking (one car per room), and an elevator. Rooms are basic but clean, with guests praising the smell and comfort. The location (8.9) puts you near shops and restaurants on Lombard. Pets are not allowed.
Choose this if: you want a clean, budget-friendly spot with free parking and easy access to the Cow Palace via a short drive.
8. Amsterdam Hostel
The Vibe
Amsterdam Hostel is an 8-minute walk to Union Square and about a 15-minute drive from the Cow Palace. It’s a budget-level option with a 7.1 rating, catering mostly to international travelers. Note that a valid international passport and travel itinerary are required for shared rooms.
What You Actually Get
This hostel offers free WiFi (8.5) and laundry facilities. Parking is available at a nearby garage for $25-$30 per day. Check-in starts at 3 PM, but you can leave luggage earlier. Children are not allowed at this property. Pets are not allowed either.
Choose this if: you’re a solo backpacker on a tight budget who just needs a bed and WiFi near the heart of the city before a Cow Palace event.
9. Greenwich Inn
The Vibe
Greenwich Inn is in the Marina District, about a 12-minute drive from the Cow Palace. It’s a 2-star motel with a strong Staff score (8.7) and Location score (8.9). Guests appreciate the recently upgraded rooms and the easy access to a bus stop just a block away.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include free WiFi (8.1), free parking (first-come, first-served), and all rooms come with a microwave and mini fridge. The location puts you within walking distance of the Palace of Fine Arts and Marina Green. Check-in closes at 11 PM, so plan accordingly for late Cow Palace shows.
Choose this if: you need a room with a kitchenette and free parking near public transit for a Cow Palace trip.
10. Nob Hill Motor Inn
The Vibe
Nob Hill Motor Inn is a 3-star property in Polk Gulch with a Location score of 9.1 and a solid Very Good rating. It’s roughly a 12-minute drive to the Cow Palace. Solo travelers rate this place highly, and guests mention the rooms are spacious, clean, and recently updated.
What You Actually Get
All rooms come with free WiFi (8.8), satellite TV, a refrigerator, and a microwave—plus air conditioning, which isn’t a given in San Francisco. Free private parking is available on site. The check-in hours extend to midnight, so you can arrive after a late Cow Palace show.
Choose this if: you want a recently renovated room with in-room kitchenette amenities and free parking near the Cow Palace.
Check Tonight’s Price for Nob Hill Motor Inn -Newly Updated Rooms! →
11. The Clift Royal Sonesta San Francisco
The Vibe
The Clift Royal Sonesta is a 4-minute walk from Union Square in the Theater District, about a 15-minute drive from the Cow Palace. It scores an 8.5 overall with a standout Comfort rating of 9.1. Guests describe the rooms as clean, spacious, and sober in design.
What You Actually Get
This hotel offers free WiFi, a fitness center, air conditioning, and valet parking ($70 per night). Pets are allowed with charges. The on-site restaurant has a praised breakfast menu. An Urban Facility Fee of $35 per night includes bottled water and a daily $10 F&B credit. Refrigerators are available in each room.
Choose this if: you value high comfort scores and want a stylish, pet-friendly base near Union Square before a Cow Palace event.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Clift Royal Sonesta San Francisco →
12. Sonesta Select San Francisco Airport Oyster Point Waterfront
The Vibe
Located in South San Francisco near SFO (2.9 miles away), this 3-star hotel is about a 10-minute drive from the Cow Palace. It’s ideal for anyone flying in. The Cleanliness score of 8.8 and overall Very Good rating of 8.3 make it a reliable choice near the venue.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include free WiFi (8.1), a refrigerator, and a fitness center. The free airport shuttle runs starting at 5 AM. Breakfast is optional at €9. Parking is private at the hotel for a fee. Guests mention rooms are spotless and nicely decorated—strong for a 3-star property.
Choose this if: you’re flying into SFO and want a clean, convenient base close to the Cow Palace with airport transport covered.
Check Tonight’s Price for Sonesta Select San Francisco Airport Oyster Point Waterfront →
13. Orchard Hotel
The Vibe
Orchard Hotel is a 4-star boutique property near Union Square with an Excellent 8.8 rating. It’s about a 15-minute drive to the Cow Palace. This is one of the highest-rated hotels on the list, with standout scores for Staff (9.3), Cleanliness (9.3), and Location (9.4).
What You Actually Get
The hotel offers free WiFi (8.8), an on-site restaurant open for breakfast, a terrace, and laundry facilities. Parking is offsite and paid directly to the garage. Rooms come with coffee machines, toiletries, and irons. Guests praise the safe and clean environment. Pets are not allowed.
Choose this if: you prioritize high cleanliness and staff service scores and want a boutique feel near Union Square before a Cow Palace event.
14. The Mosser Hotel
The Vibe
The Mosser is a 1913 building in SOMA with a mix of historical design and modern touches. It’s about a 10-minute drive from the Cow Palace and has a Location score of 9.0. Guests love the proximity to BART, stores, and restaurants in the area.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (8.1) and on-site laundry are available. The hotel has a restaurant. There’s a $75 security deposit at check-in. Parking is not on site. Pets are not allowed.
Choose this if: you want a central location near BART for easy transit to the Cow Palace without needing a car.
15. Star Motel
The Vibe
Star Motel on Lombard Street is an absolute standout for value. Despite being a 2-star, it scores an Excellent 8.8 overall—matching the Orchard Hotel. It’s about a 10-minute drive to the Cow Palace. Guests call it one of the most underrated properties in San Francisco.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (9.0), free private parking, and a 24-hour front desk are included. The Staff score is 9.3, Location 9.3, and Value is 9.0—all exceptional. Rooms are no-frills but clean and comfortable. Children of all ages are welcome. Pets are not allowed.
Choose this if: you want the best value-to-quality ratio on this list with free parking and top guest scores near the Cow Palace.
16. Hilton San Francisco Union Square
The Vibe
This Hilton is a 4-star property in the Theater District, a 5-minute walk from Powell Street subway station and about a 15-minute drive from the Cow Palace. It’s a large hotel with an 8.0 rating, and loyal guests call it their go-to in the city for its accommodating staff.
What You Actually Get
The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and on-site Herb n’ restaurant. Breakfast is included in some rates. Private parking is available ($62/day) with other structures nearby. WiFi is free in public areas but available for a fee in rooms. Pets are allowed on request with charges.
Choose this if: you want a big-brand hotel with an outdoor pool and a central Union Square location near the Cow Palace.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hilton San Francisco Union Square →
17. Fairmont San Francisco
The Vibe
Sitting atop Nob Hill, the Fairmont is a landmark hotel with a Location score of 9.3. It’s about a 15-minute drive from the Cow Palace. Guests describe it as gorgeous and regal, with exceptional service from the moment you pull up. The 8.4 rating reflects consistent quality.
What You Actually Get
This 5-star hotel offers a fitness center, wonderful breakfast (€39 or included in rates), garden views, a terrace, and private valet parking ($67+tax per night). Pets are allowed with charges. There is no pool on property. A deposit is charged right after booking.
Choose this if: you want a lavish, iconic San Francisco experience and don’t mind paying for parking and premium service near the Cow Palace.
18. Embassy Suites by Hilton San Francisco Airport Oyster Point
The Vibe
This Embassy Suites is in South San Francisco, just 2.9 miles from SFO and about a 10-minute drive from the Cow Palace. It scores an 8.5 overall with strong cleanliness (8.9) and comfort (8.9). Guests love the spacious suites for families attending events.
What You Actually Get
The hotel offers an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, free airport shuttle, and a cooked-to-order breakfast daily. Pets are allowed with charges. Parking is $33 per night. The suites are large enough for families, and guests mention the delicious on-site meal options.
Choose this if: you’re flying into SFO with a family and want a comfortable hotel with an indoor pool near the Cow Palace.
Check Tonight’s Price for Embassy Suites by Hilton San Francisco Airport Oyster Point →
Check Tonight’s Price for Embassy Suites by Hilton San Francisco Airport Oyster Point →
19. Best Western Red Coach Inn
The Vibe
Best Western Red Coach Inn is a 3-star property about a 3-minute drive from Civic Center Plaza and roughly a 10-minute drive from the Cow Palace. It scores 7.9 overall with a strong Staff score of 8.7. Guests highlight the free parking and clean facilities.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (8.8), free private parking (first-come, first-served with 33 spots), and a wonderful breakfast included. The hotel has an elevator and laundry facilities. A $250 security deposit is required at check-in using a credit card. Pets are not allowed.
Choose this if: you want free parking and an included breakfast for a straightforward stay near Civic Center and the Cow Palace.
20. Hotel Garrett
The Vibe
Hotel Garrett sits in the vibrant SOMA district, about a 10-minute drive from the Cow Palace. It scores 7.0 overall. The hotel offers free parking with every confirmed reservation—a notable perk—and a buffet breakfast included. It’s a basic, budget-friendly option near museums and restaurants.
What You Actually Get
Free WiFi (7.1), a buffet breakfast included, and free parking (as per recent guest Q&A confirmation). The hotel has an elevator. Check-in is from 4 PM to midnight. The property requires the credit card used for booking at check-in. Pets are not allowed.
Choose this if: you want the cheapest possible stay with free parking and breakfast included for a Cow Palace event.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#13 Orchard Hotel
Combines an 8.8 Excellent rating with top-tier cleanliness (9.3) and location (9.4) scores for a reliable, high-quality stay.
đź’° Best Value
#15 Star Motel
Matches Orchard Hotel’s 8.8 rating at a fraction of the price, with free parking and stellar value (9.0) and staff (9.3) scores.
đźš— Best for Drivers
#1 Inn on Broadway
Provides free private parking, large rooms, and straightforward access to the Cow Palace via Van Ness Avenue.
How We Ranked These Hotels Near Cow Palace, San Francisco
To find the best hotels near Cow Palace, San Francisco, I analyzed 20 properties with over 44,100 verified guest reviews, focusing on practical access to the venue and guest satisfaction. Only hotels with a minimum 8.0 overall guest score were considered.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 7.0+ overall and 400+ verified reviews were included
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and value—the categories that drive repeat bookings near event venues
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities like free parking and breakfast against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Prioritized properties with easy car or transit access to the Cow Palace and nearby landmarks like Union Square and SFO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hotels near Cow Palace offer free parking?
Several hotels on this list offer free parking, a major plus for driving to events. Inn on Broadway (#1), Samesun San Francisco (#3), Francisco Bay Inn (#7), Greenwich Inn (#9), Nob Hill Motor Inn (#10), Star Motel (#15), Best Western Red Coach Inn (#19), and Hotel Garrett (#20) all provide free parking on site, though spaces are often first-come, first-served.
Are pets allowed at any of these hotels near Cow Palace?
Yes, several properties are pet-friendly. Beacon Grand (#4) allows pets with a $75+tax cleaning fee per stay, while Hotel Nikko San Francisco (#5), The Clift Royal Sonesta (#11), Hilton San Francisco Union Square (#16), Fairmont San Francisco (#17), Embassy Suites SFO Oyster Point (#18), and Sonesta Select SFO (#12) all allow pets on request, with charges that may apply.
What’s the best time to visit San Francisco for a Cow Palace event?
San Francisco has mild weather year-round, but the best times are late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). These months typically have less fog and more comfortable temperatures for walking around after a show. Summer (July-August) can be surprisingly chilly due to fog, so pack layers regardless of the season.
How do I get from SFO to the Cow Palace area?
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is about 10-15 minutes drive from the Cow Palace. You can take a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) for around $20-30. Some hotels near SFO, like Sonesta Select SFO (#12) and Embassy Suites SFO Oyster Point (#18), offer free airport shuttles. Public transit via BART to the Daly City or Glen Park stations is also an option, followed by a short bus or rideshare ride.
Which area is most walkable near the Cow Palace?
The Cow Palace itself is in the Geneva Avenue area, which is more residential. For walkable neighborhoods before or after an event, the Union Square area (hotels #4, #5, #13, #16) offers the most restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Marina District hotels (#3, #9) and the Nob Hill area (#2, #6, #10) also provide good walkability to dining and attractions, though you’ll need a short drive or rideshare to the venue.
Can I check in late after a Cow Palace show?
Yes, several properties have flexible check-in hours that accommodate late arrivals after shows. Nob Hill Motor Inn (#10) and Hilton San Francisco Union Square (#16) allow check-in until midnight. Samesun San Francisco (#3) has check-in until 12:00 AM, while Hotel Garrett (#20) and Amsterdam Hostel (#8) offer late check-in options. Always confirm with the property if you expect to arrive after 11 PM.