Redwood Inn

The Redwood Inn is a four-story cement building, a typical roadside motel with faded yellow and maroon paint, and outdoor staircases and hallways leading to rooms. The top floors overlook the surrounding neighborhood, including vinyl siding apartment buildings on either side, and another motor inn across the street. The inner courtyard faces a backyard garden, but there's definitely more pavement than greenery on this property. The atmosphere is minimal, clean, and car-centric, with plenty of outdoor and covered parking spaces. The reception area is a step back in time, with a hodgepodge of '70s- and '90s-era furnishings and decor, including fake tropical plants, floral-patterned wallpaper, and a pair of polka-dot-patterned armchairs with curtains to match. Faux marble columns finish off the room, which is the only public area here. Guests are tourists, including some families, who don't spend much time on the property. 

The Redwood is situated in the Marina District at the edge of busy Lombard Street (Highway 101), where there is a more residential feel. Ghiradelli Square and Russian Hill are within 10 minutes on foot, while the many restaurants and bars of Chestnut and Union Streets are one and two blocks away, respectively. It’s a 20-minute walk east to Fisherman’s Wharf, and a 10-minute drive west to the Golden Gate Bridge. While a bit isolated from the rest of the city, the property is near public transportation – bus and BART stops are less than 10 minutes away on foot, with access to anywhere in the city, often in 30 minutes or less. San Francisco International Airport is about an hour away via BART or around 25 minutes by car without traffic. 

All rooms are accessed from the outside and are undeniably dated. Decor combines polyester bedspreads in a garish floral pattern, bland striped curtains, and faded green carpeting. The tube-style TVs date back to the 1990s if not earlier, though have free HBO. While not the most stylish or modern, and showing some wear and tear, rooms are clean. Each has free Wi-Fi access, a mini-fridge, coffeemaker, small table and chairs, and microwave upon request. Bathrooms, in spite of their aged pink or green tile floors, are clean and have shower/tub combos and basic toiletries. The sink area is just outside the bathroom, with plenty of counter space. The sound of traffic is ever present, and walls are thin. 

The Redwood has free outdoor parking and some covered spaces, as well. Guest rooms have free Wi-Fi and HBO, and there are free pastries at reception. There is no bar, restaurant, or even a lounge area. The Redwood's best feature is its Marina District location, allowing guests to access great spots on foot, or via nearby public transportation.