Info 450 Powell St., 800/795-7129, sirfrancisdrake.com, from $139.

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SAN FRANCISCO HOTELS From Japantown to Union Square, here are five fantastic properties with atmosphere to spare. • Launch the slide show

HOTEL BERESFORD
'Hood Near the theater district, but bordering the still-sketchy Tenderloin area.

First Impression The Beresford is one of the city's oldest grande dames--it was built in 1911--with original woodwork and period furnishings, such as a writing desk in a parlor off the lobby.

Rooms Several of the 114 rooms were just refurbished, adding crown molding and colonial-style door frames. Hallways are lined with photos of popular city sights.

Plus The White Horse Tavern & Restaurant, known for its generous filet mignon, is a favorite with theatergoers.

Minus The "friendliest hotel in San Francisco" motto is a bit of an exaggeration (we're talking to you, front-desk clerks).

Info 635 Sutter St., 800/533-6533, beresford.com, from $89.

ORCHARD GARDEN HOTEL
'Hood Steps from Chinatown and North Beach, a historically Italian area, and home to the iconic City Lights bookstore.

First Impression Everything is earth-friendly, from the fluorescent bulbs in the hallways to the soy ink used to print your bill. The beige-on-beige lobby was constructed from recycled cement.

Rooms The 86 rooms are done in muted greens and beiges, with headboards of sustainably grown maple. Even the toilet paper is recycled paper.

Plus High-tech amenities include Wi-Fi, iPod docking stations, and (continuing the eco theme) key cards that turn on the electricity when you enter a room.