Historic elegance perched atop Nob Hil

Located at the most important locus in SF (where all of the cable car lines meet!), Fairmont offers almost-too-easy access to Downtown, FiDi, Union Square, and Fisherman's Wharf, not to mention unobstructed panoramic views of the city, and a restaurant with a freaking pool in the middle of it.Originally opened in 1907, Fairmont was the venue of choice for presidential visits, political gatherings, and glittering balls, so Bill Clinton has definitely been here.Each of the 591 rooms are individually decorated and furnished, meaning no two are alike, but they do all come outfitted with work desks, WiFi, and flatscreens.Their signature resto, Tonga Room, is a throwback to SF's classic Tiki past, serving up Hana pork and coconut-housed mai tais in a room made of bamboo and water features. Happy hour's on Wed-Fri from 5-7p. For a smaller, more harmonious experience mosey into the Laurel Court Bar and relax with a Brandy Alexander, or a dual-bittered Maple Syrup Old Fashioned.And because you're drinking mad fancy Brandy Alexanders, you'll be pleased to know Fairmont's Penthouse is equipped with a tile-floored billiards room, meaning this is your cue to ball.photos:Fairmont