The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

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500 W Broadway, San Diego, CA, 92101
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The Guild Hotel combines modern elegance and historic charm right in the heart of Downtown San Diego. Enjoy nightlife, history, dining, shopping and more!
Jess Tucker
Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Prices starting at $169 / night
The Guild Hotel
The Guild Hotel Overview
Whats Nearby
Things to Know
Property Amenities
Parking
Rooms & Rates
Things to See and Do
Popular Activities
Similar Hotels
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Highlights

Rates
Amenities
To Do
Nearby
Rooms
Amenities
To Do
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Experience Boutique Luxury Even On a Business Trip at The Guild Hotel

The Historic Guild Hotel San DiegoLobby Bar to the Guild Hotel San Diego

Business travelers are sure to be familiar with San Diego’s Core-Columbia neighborhood, but did you know that whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, there’s an excellent boutique hotel tucked away here right in the heart of Downtown San Diego?

It’s a short walk from the Gaslamp District and Little Italy, and just a few steps away from the San Diego Bay. It’s surrounded by shopping and dining and not far from Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo and a number of our favorite museums in San Diego as well!

Entrance to the Guild Hotel San Diego
Entrance to the Guild Hotel San Diego

Past and Present

The Guild Hotel is part of San Diego history, located in a former YMCA building that was originally constructed in 1924. As it was retrofitted to be a 4 star, luxury hotel, the designers made sure to maintain many of its historic design elements.

Today, the hotel offers three different options for dining and drinking on-site.

Luca offers modern Mediterranean food in a chic courtyard where you can enjoy San Diego’s beautiful weather. The Grace Garden is also situated outdoors and offers healthy options for lunch. Indoors, you’ll find the Guild Bar, where you can enjoy cocktails, beer, and wine in an elegant lounge space.

The Guild Hotel also offers continental breakfast for a small fee.

Keep in shape at the hotel’s modern fitness center on site that is open 24/7. As a nice perk, you rent a beach cruiser bike from the front desk based on availability.

The hotel is also known for its spacious ballroom, which is an ideal place to host weddings and other events.

Local Tips
Prohibition: San Diego's Original Speakeasy Bar
Prohibition is the original speakeasy bar in San Diego and it is well worth checking. This 1920's atmosphere bar is a great place to grab a craft cocktail or a beer with a friend. You might even catch some live music on your visit.

Why The Guild Hotel Is a Favorite for Our Team

There’s lots to love about the guest experience that awaits at The Guild Hotel. Here, I’ll share some of my favorite takeaways from my own stay there.

Main Entrance at the Guild Hotel San Diego
Main Entrance at the Guild Hotel San Diego

A Gorgeous Building

Located in a former YMCA building, The Guild has undergone many renovations to make it the hotel it is today, but it’s never lost that old-world charm that makes it so stunning both inside and out. It’s a little piece of San Diego’s history, and I think it’s one of the most beautiful buildings in the downtown area.

Before a Show at the Rady Shell Theater
Before a Show at the Rady Shell Theater

An Ideal, Walkable Location

If you’re hoping to explore Downtown San Diego, The Guild Hotel is close enough to many major attractions to put them well within walking distance. These include highlights like the restaurants of Little Italy, the San Diego Convention Center, and The Rady Shell outdoor concert venue at the Marina.

At The Guild Hotel, you’re just a few minutes’ walk away from the Embarcadero along the San Diego Bay which also houses the Seaport Village shopping center. The Cruise Ship Port isn’t far either, which makes the hotel an excellent choice for anyone planning to embark!

Entrance to San Diego International Airport
Entrance to San Diego International Airport

A Comfortable Common Area

Tired out from carrying your luggage between the San Diego International Airport (SAN) and the hotel? Take a few minutes to kick back in the hotel lobby, which is fitted with comfortable seating and a fun, upscale atmosphere.

One of the best features of the hotel lobby is the attached bar, which has a significant cabinet of whiskies and bourbons. The Guild Bar is also a great spot to get a cocktail or to enjoy a light meal. The classy use of marble countertops and velvet upholstery help to elevate the experience to something truly luxurious.

The Guild Hotel
Prices starting at $169 / night

What's Nearby

Embarcadero
Embarcadero
7 min Walk
USS Midway
USS Midway Museum
7 min Walk
Petco Park
Petco Park
20 min Walk
Balboa Park
Balboa Park
27 min Walk
San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo
7 min Drive
Old Town San Diego
Old Town San Diego
9 min Drive
Pacific Ocean
Pacific Ocean
16 min Drive
Beach
Coronado Beach
17 min Drive
SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld San Diego
17 min Drive
Cabrillo Nat. Monument
Cabrillo National Monument
21 min Drive
Beach
La Jolla Cove
31 min Drive
The Guild Hotel
Prices starting at $169 / night

Things to Know Before Arrival

Neighborhood Core-Columbia
The Core-Columbia area of Downtown San Diego is a beautiful mix of sky rises, restaurants, and hotels, complete with activities like music venues and museums.
Check In / Check Out
4:00 PM / 11:00 AM
Pet Policy
Pets are allowed for an extra charge of USD 75.00 per pet (may vary based on length of stay). Dogs only. Service animals exempt from fees.
Wifi
Free WiFi in Lobby & Rooms
Breakfast
Not Included
Property Size
162 Rooms

Property Amenities

Bar on Property
Bar on Property
Business Center
Business Center
City Hotel
City Hotel
Concierge Desk
Concierge Desk
Conference Center
Conference Center
Family Friendly
Family Friendly
Fitness Room
Fitness Room
Golf Nearby
Golf Nearby
Hotel Near Bay
Hotel Near Bay
Laundry
Laundry
Museum Nearby
Museum Nearby
Pets Allowed
Pets Allowed
Restaurant on Property
Restaurant on Property

Parking

Self Parking
Self Parking
$35 / day for Self Parking

Room Amenities

Air Conditioning
Air Conditioning
Crib
Crib
Daily Maid Service
Daily Maid Service
Flat Screen TV
Flat Screen TV
Handicapped Accessible
Handicapped Accessible
Iron
Iron
No Smoking
No Smoking
Phone in Room
Phone in Room
Roll Away Bed
Roll Away Bed
Getting Around
SAN Airport
SAN Airport
- 36 min Walk
Trolley
Trolley Station
- 4 min Walk
Cruise Port
Cruise Port
- 9 min Walk
This Month's Forecast
53°F / 75°F
Sunny in November
Dec
48°F / 69°F
Sunny in December
Jan
48°F / 68°F
Sunny in January
Feb
49°F / 69°F
Sunny in February

Rooms & Rates

Double Room at the Guild Hotel San Diego

The Guild San Diego has beautifully designed rooms that are reflective of the latest interior design trends. Each hotel room has a chic cosmopolitan feel and features local artwork.

You can expect access to a smart TV and complimentary WiFi. All rooms also come with a desk, plush bed or beds, and complimentary water and coffee.

Here are some of the room types available at the Guild Hotel.

The Guild Hotel
Prices starting at $169 / night
The Apprentice

This room is available with either one queen bed or one king bed. Although it is the smallest room available in the hotel, it does not skimp on comfort or design, with beautiful rose gold accents and a sleek black-and-white bathroom.

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The Society

This room comes with one king bed. It’s slightly larger than the Apprentice room and comes with both a desk and a lounge chair.

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The Journeyman

This room is available with either two queen beds or one king bed and can sleep two to four people. The bathroom comes with a robe and slippers for extra comfort.

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The Artisan

This beautiful room comes with floor-to-ceiling windows and offers plenty of natural light. It comes with one king bed.

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The Society Suite

This suite is a great option for groups who need a little bit of extra space.

The suite comes with a king bed as well as a sofa bed, and rollaway beds are permitted for an extra fee. The bathroom comes with a robe and slippers for extra comfort, and the desk provides a comfy space to get work done.

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The Master Suite

This suite is slightly larger and provides plenty of space to spread out that other accommodation choices available at the hotel.

It has a king bed as well as a living area with a sofa bed. Rollaway beds are permitted for an extra fee. The bathroom features a walk-in rain shower and comes with robes and slippers.

Some of these suites have city views, while others have a partial view of the San Diego Bay.

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2 Bedroom Penthouse Suite

To experience the ultimate luxury at the Guild Hotel San Diego, opt for the 2 Bedroom Penthouse Suite!

This grand suite features two bedrooms, each with their own king bed, and 2.5 bathrooms, so everyone in your group has plenty of space to relax. There is also a separate living area with a sofa and a table complete with seating for four.

The suite has soundproof windows that let in plenty of natural light and stunning city views. Guests who stay in the penthouse also have their own private patio off of the master bedroom.

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The Guild Hotel
Prices starting at $169 / night

Exploring What’s Nearby The Guild Hotel

SeaWorld Exit at SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld Exit at SeaWorld San Diego

When you stay at the Guild Hotel San Diego, you’re right in the heart of America’s Finest City. Some of San Diego’s best and most popular attractions and activities are just a short walk or drive away!

From museums in Downtown and nearby Balboa Park to SeaWorld San Diego in Mission Bay plus the San Diego Convention Center, Petco Park and San Diego Cruise Terminal all just a short distance away, The Guild Hotel San Diego is right in the middle of some of the best of what San Diego has to offer.

With so much to do so close to the hotel, be sure to pick up a Go City San Diego Pass before your trip! The Go City San Diego Pass can save you money on admission to some of the area’s top attractions and activities.

You’ll save even more when you use our discount code GVSD5OFF to double up on the savings!

Petco Park Stadium from the Park in the Park
Petco Park Stadium from the Park in the Park

Amenities and Activities Offered Through the Hotel

Before you hit the town, see what The Guild Hotel offers guests on hotel grounds.

Visit the Dandy Time Barber

The Guild has its own barbershop which is sure to leave you feeling pampered. Like everything else about The Guild, this is a boutique experience that prioritizes the guest experience.

Services offered include hair and beard trims, facial massages, and scalp treatments for gentlemen.

Shop at the Boutique

Need a few last-minute travel essentials? Head to The Guild Boutique to pick up a few odds and ends.

This on-site store stocks everything from snacks and drinks to high-end wellness and skincare products from brands like Bay Wreath Co., Salt & Stone, and Dermtlgy.

Keep Active and Cool Down

If you’re the type of person who doesn’t like to miss a gym day even while on vacation, The Guild Hotel San Diego has you covered. As we mentioned before, the hotel has its own private fitness center equipped with Peloton bikes, weights, and Life Fitness cardiovascular equipment.

You can also take an exclusive wellness class designed around the innovative bay wreath BODY method, led by its creator Erika Baker. These full-body workouts are offered as complimentary group sessions or general classes for an additional fee.

Once you’ve worked up a sweat, cool down at the neighboring AquaVie Spa. Guests of The Guild get a discount on all spa services.

Petco Park Stadium from the Park in the Park
Petco Park Stadium from the Park in the Park

What to Do in Core-Columbia

San Diego’s Core-Columbia neighborhood is primarily a business district, but there are plenty of attractions and things to do in the area around the hotel.

In particular, Core-Columbia is known for its cultural scene. See live performances of music and theater at arts venues like the San Diego Civic Theatre (with the Balboa Theatre not far away either!). You can also go for a stroll around the East Village area to watch a Padres game or attend a concert at Petco Park.

Here are a few of our other favorite attractions that are accessible from San Diego’s downtown.

Brothels, Bites and Booze Walking Tour in the Gaslamp Quarter
Brothels, Bites and Booze Walking Tour in the Gaslamp Quarter

Tour San Diego

Our favorite way to experience a little bit of everything that Downtown has to offer is by taking a tour of San Diego. There are many excellent tours to choose from, all led by knowledgeable and friendly guides, but one that stands out for us is The San Diego Highlights Tour.

This is an all-day tour that takes about 7 hours, ensuring you’ll get to visit all of the most well-known sightseeing spots both Downtown and in La Jolla. You’ll also have the opportunity to hop off the bus and explore some of these locations.

One of the many Jets That You Can Sit in at the USS Midway Museum
One of the many Jets That You Can Sit in at the USS Midway Museum

Climb Aboard the USS Midway

The Guild Hotel is just a few blocks away from the USS Midway Museum. This historic naval ship has been converted into a museum where you can learn more about San Diego’s Navy history as well as the latest naval technology.

The museum also hosts fun events throughout the year for both kids and adults.

Boarding the Bus for the Guided Bus Tour at the San Diego Zoo
Boarding the Bus for the Guided Bus Tour at the San Diego Zoo

Visit the San Diego Zoo

Another must-visit for anyone in the San Diego area is the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

This zoo is widely lauded as one of the best in the country with hundreds of different animal species. It’s located in historic Balboa Park, which is known for its architectural landmarks and beautiful views of the San Diego area.

Boardwalk at Sunset in Front of Hotel Del Coronado
Boardwalk at Sunset in Front of Hotel Del Coronado

Go to Coronado Beach

No San Diego vacation is complete without a day at one of the more than 75 San Diego area beaches.

Head across the bay to Coronado to soak up the sun or maybe even go for a surf. The beach at Coronado is very pristine and is ideal for families. While you’re there, you can even stop by the historic Hotel Del Coronado for a perfect photo op.

Entrance to the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Downtown
Entrance to the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Downtown

Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

One of the best indoor activities to check out near the Guild Hotel is the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.

The Guild Hotel even offers two tickets per room as part of their destination fee. The museum is located in a historic train depot and has rotating exhibits featuring contemporary artists.

If you need a few extra tickets for the museum, pick up a Go City San Diego pass to receive discounted admission to the museum as well as more than a dozen other San Diego area museums in close proximity to the hotel.

Popular Activities

Hop On & Off Narrated Trolley Tour
Hop On & Off Narrated Trolley Tour
Jump onto one of the authentic trolleys, and see over 100 sights in San Diego! Listen to the tour guide and learn as you go. Create your own tour with 12 boarding areas!
Buy Now
San Diego Harbor Cruise
San Diego Harbor Cruise
Enjoy this ‘San Diego Top Pick Award’ winner as you set sail on a three level luxury ship providing 360-degree views of San Diego’s scenic beauty. Relax for a 1-2 hour narrated tour, learn about the city from the bay.
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The World Famous San Diego Zoo
The World Famous San Diego Zoo
Spend the day at the iconic San Diego Zoo! Featuring over 3,500 animals and 650 species, this zoo is the heart of Balboa Park. There are multiple exhibits & experiences for all ages to learn about animals and their habitats.
Learn More
USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum
USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum
Located in downtown San Diego, the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum provides history of aircraft built in California. The museum includes over 60 exhibits with restored aircraft and tours of the carrier.
Learn More
Visit SeaWorld San Diego
Visit SeaWorld San Diego
The world-famous SeaWorld San Diego is home to animal shows, roller coasters and other rides for the entire family. Enjoy encounters featuring the famed Orcas, dolphins and sea lions, or take a tour through the habitats.
Learn More
Coronado Museum of History & Art
Coronado Museum of History & Art
The Coronado Museum of History & Art features interactive exhibits that explore the history of aviation, local military, and the Coronado area. Spend a few hours at one of San Diego’s great museums.
Learn More
LEGOLAND Hopper Ticket
LEGOLAND Hopper Ticket
Enjoy the 2nd day FREE with this LEGOLAND® California Hopper Ticket! Save BIG when your 2nd visit occurs within 9 days of your 1st to LEGOLAND California, SEA LIFE Aquarium or the LEGOLAND Water Park.
Learn More
New Children's Museum
New Children's Museum
The New Children's Museum of San Diego is the perfect trip for those traveling to San Diego with their family. The museum is focused on contemporary art and stimulating the minds of children. Fun for all!
Learn More
Surf Lessons in La Jolla
Surf Lessons in La Jolla
Ride the waves in La Jolla, a premiere surfing destination! This 90-minute lesson is fit for both beginners & intermediate surfers, with a choice of private or public lessons. All necessary equipment is included. Surfs up!
Buy Now
The San Diego Maritime Museum
The San Diego Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum of San Diego is famous for restoring, operating and maintaining historic boats from all around the world. The museum provides daily public tours of their collection of ships.
Learn More

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