I’m just back from a trip visiting my daughter and excited to share my insights about staying at The Guild– a gorgeous hotel in downtown San Diego. As I’ve paid my dues living in dorms and campus housing – this was a good reason to stay at a brand new hotel! 😉
The Guild is in the historic Army-Navy YMCA building, which hosted thousands of military personnel over the years. Along with all the interior upgrades it’s received (the old basketball court is now a ballroom!); the exterior of the building has also been beautifully restored.
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LOCATION
A block from the train station – it’s the perfect spot with so many San Diego sites nearby. From here I easily walked to and explored Little Italy, the Gaslamp Quarter, Seaport Village and the harbor area. You can be enjoying the beach on Coronado Island in a few minutes by car and it’s also a convenient 10 minute ride to the airport.
ROOMS
During my stay at The Guild I had a room with 2 queen size beds (they are super comfy!). Keep in mind if you prefer a king size bed, those rooms seem quite a bit smaller. The rooms are modern in design but at the same time still feel cozy. I loved the bathroom with it’s black and white decor and luxurious shower! It’s a nice extra touch with a flat iron also included for your us
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LOBBY
One of my favorite places in The Guild was the sophisticated lobby! The beautiful bar is the focal point and it’s surrounded by smaller, more intimate seating areas. I noticed it attracts the after work crowd along with those staying at the hotel enjoying a drink before going out for the evening. This is a stylish lobby with most people in business attire or a little more dressed up (compared to the casual San Diego beach attire).
I recommend this hotel for couples or a getaway with friends, as it’s definitely not family friendly (I didn’t see any children during my stay in mid August). The Guild doesn’t offer extra amenities such as a pool, spa or fitness center (there’s access to a nearby gym). It is a terrific location as a home base for your San Diego vacation, a unique setting for your wedding or celebration, and a very trendy bar to grab a drink!
Until the next adventure – bon voyage!
Kris