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InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco

A historic luxury landmark perched at the crest of Nob Hill, this Old World European-style hotel is famous for its grand architecture and the panoramic views from the Top of the Mark sky-lounge.

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InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco
www.topofthemark.com, og_image_www.topofthemark.com

What is the InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco known for?

It is a historic luxury hotel and beloved landmark located at the crest of Nob Hill, known for its grand architecture and its association with one of San Francisco's 'Big Four' railroad founders, Mark Hopkins.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-out is at 12:00 PM. Check-in is listed as 4:00 PM by IHG and 3:00 PM by Travel Weekly.

Does the hotel have a bar with a view?

Yes, the hotel features the Top of the Mark sky-lounge, which is famed for its panoramic city views, signature cocktails, and tapas menu.

When was the hotel built?

The InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco opened in 1926.

Where is the hotel located?

The hotel is located at One Nob Hill, 999 California Street, at the top of Nob Hill in San Francisco, California.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco is a venerable luxury landmark situated at the very top of Nob Hill. Opened in 1926, the hotel was constructed on the former site of the mansion belonging to Mark Hopkins, one of the "Big Four" railroad founders who helped establish the Southern Pacific Railroad. Upon its completion, local San Franciscans were so impressed by the design that they declared the building to be "architecturally perfect." Designed in an Old World European style, the property serves as a focal point for the neighborhood, positioned exactly at the crossing of three cable car lines. This strategic location provides guests with easy access to the Financial District, Chinatown, and Union Square. The hotel currently offers 383 classically elegant rooms, including 33 suites, and maintains over 19,000 square feet of function space across 17 meeting rooms and two ballrooms. One of the hotel's most legendary features is the Top of the Mark. Established in 1939 by hotel owner George D. Smith, who transformed the penthouse into a sky-high haven for the elite, this lounge remains a premier destination for cocktails and tapas. It is widely celebrated for providing breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay Area and the city below.

Visitor tips

  • Visit the Top of the Mark between 4:00 PM and 11:00 PM (Sunday-Thursday) or 3:00 PM to 12:30 AM (Friday-Saturday) for drinks and views.
  • Use the cable car to reach the hotel, as it sits at the crossing of three different lines.
  • Allow extra time for the steep climb up Nob Hill if you are walking from downtown.

Nearby context

The hotel crowns the summit of Nob Hill, a neighborhood known for its prestige and steep inclines. Its position at the intersection of three cable car lines makes it a central hub for those exploring the transition between the Financial District and the residential heights of the city.

Sources

Evidence and links