"The will of the people is the best law."
-Ulysses S. Grant
A member of Marriott’s Luxury Collection, The US Grant Hotel in San Diego is a luxurious and historic property that has been welcoming guests since its opening in 1910. Located in the heart of downtown, the hotel is just steps from popular attractions like the Gaslamp Quarter and Balboa Park. The US Grant has a rich history, having hosted celebrities and dignitaries over the years, and today it continues to be one of the city’s most popular hotels. Travelers looking for a truly unique experience will want to check out the US Grant Hotel. Here’s what you need to know about this San Diego landmark.
The US Grant Hotel is located in downtown San Diego and was built in 1910
Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, the US Grant is an iconic historical landmark dating back to 1910. It was built by local entrepreneur and philanthropist Ulysses S. Grant Jr., son of President Ulysses S. Grant. The hotel was designed to be luxurious and modern for the time, with an impressive grand lobby featuring marble flooring and high ceilings. This grand and majestic hotel offers a unique blend of modern amenities set against a backdrop of classic elegance.
Just steps away from San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, the US Grant provides guests with easy access to shopping, dining and entertainment options, as well as top attractions such as Balboa Park, Little Italy and Seaport Village. Spend your time discovering downtown San Diego or just relax in this world-class hotel that has been a cornerstone in downtown San Diego for over 100 years.
The hotel was named after Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th president of the United States
An iconic destination and a designated historic landmark, it took its name from one of America’s greatest presidents: Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th president of the United States and hero of the Civil War. Since then, this classic hotel has been a favored haunt of celebrities, politicians, and dignitaries alike, while its luxurious amenities remain welcoming to all. Its remarkable history adds to the magical allure of The US Grant, making it truly worthy of its legendary namesake.
The hotel has hosted many famous guests over the years, including Charlie Chaplin, John F. Kennedy, and Elvis Presley
The US Grant has seen a lot of history walk through its doors over the years. Great names like Charlie Chaplin, Albert Einstein, Charles Lindbergh, John F. Kennedy, and Elvis Presley have all called the hotel home during their time in San Diego — the latter even famously recording at nearby radio station KFSD in 1956! In all, 12 Presidents and 5 former First Ladies also called the US Grant home during their time in San Diego.
On top of that, the Great White Fleet Association made the US Grant their home for their annual reunion dinners. The Great White Fleet was a term applied to the U.S. Navy’s battle fleet that circumnavigated the globe from 1907–09. The historic journey was planned by President Theodore Roosevelt to demonstrate America’s naval power to other nations and was seen as a symbol of America’s increasingly prominent role on the world stage.
To commemorate this voyage, the US Grant hosted the reunion dinner for nearly 35 years, up until 1974. Naval officers, lectures about naval history and geography during that era, and dignitaries from around the world attended the reception honoring veterans who served on those ships. The hotel also serves as an official remembrance site for USS Baltimore Sailors who made their way across the Pacific Ocean more than 100 years ago. Just imagine all of the incredible conversations and stories shared within these walls.
In recent years, the hotel has undergone extensive renovations to restore its original grandeur
Recently, the beloved hotel has undergone extensive renovations to restore its regal decor and furnishings. The storied lobby of the hotel features grandly ornate chandeliers and mahogany accents that transport you back to the turn of the 20th century. Think “The Great Gatsby” meets Hollywood opulence. With state-of-the-art amenities including a stunningly renovated spa and modernized guest rooms, you can experience an unforgettable stay while touching history.
The Grant Grill is the signature restaurant of the US Grant Hotel, opening in 1952. The restaurant quickly became a power-lunch spot for downtown businessmen, lawyers and politicians. In 1969, a group of prominent local women staged a sit-in at the restaurant, resulting in the abandonment of its men-only policy. A plaque commemorating the first women reservation at Grant Grill is displayed in the restaurant to show the historic change that it underwent post 1969.
The Grant Grill menu features dishes made with fresh local ingredients, such as wild-caught seafood, artisanal cheeses and handcrafted cocktails. For dessert, you can enjoy signature creations like their famous Butterscotch Pot de Crème or White Chocolate Panna Cotta. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a relaxed meal with friends, the Grant Grill’s warm atmosphere will make it an enjoyable time for everyone.
The US Grant is your piece of luxury while visiting San Diego
If you’re looking for a luxurious and historic hotel in downtown San Diego, the US Grant is the perfect place for you. Whether you’re looking for a place to stay during your next business trip or you’re planning a romantic getaway, they will surely exceed your expectations.
