national monuments in washington dc Although this Eastern-influenced hotel caters largely to corporate travelers, it holds one of the fe

Innkeepers John and Renate Kenaste, and daughter G abriele, are polite hosts who maintain some nice touches in their family-r un inn such as vintage national monuments in washington dc claw-foot tubs, an antique bird-cage elevator, and complimentar y afternoon tea with homemade cookies. The continental breakfast included in the room rate features coffee, tea, croissants, and muffins. There s also Humphrey, a friendly golden r etriever. Note: During peak months in summer, rates push the Golden Gate into the moderate price category.

When choosing a part of town in which to stay, think about family members special needs or inter ests. Perhaps a little one takes a midday nap , so a central location would be best. I f y ou hav e activ e y oung children, y ou may appr eciate the playgrounds within walking distance of Marina or N ob H ill hotels. Teens may pr efer Union S quare or S oMa for pr oximity to shopping and the Metreon. If your family s main inter ests ar e classic attractions such as Alcatraz and Ghirardelli Square, Fisherman s Wharf could be the place (although

Although this Eastern-influenced hotel caters largely to corporate travelers, it holds one of the fe w, and one of the most spacious, indoor swimming pools in the city. The pool is connected to the N ikko s health club, but the staff insists that guests tend to exercise in the early morning and evening, which means the rest of the day children can splash around freely. The pool is located in an expansive glass-roofed atrium, which also houses ex ercise equipment and J apanese hot tubs, so y ou can wor k out or enjoy a soak while y ou keep on ey e on the kids. A full-ser vice spa is set to open in 2009. Decor is tastefully understated, and rooms get a lot of natural sunlight. With a pullout sofa and guest washr oom, the N ikko s junior suites ar e quite family-friendly. E ven standard double-double rooms are large and have entryways that give the impression of more space. Views start above the 10th floor. Rooms on the three executive-level Nikko Floors also have vanities and more spacious bathrooms, and the Nikko Lounge offers national monuments in washington dc board games and Internet access, so your teenagers national monuments in washington dc can still IM their pals at home. The Nikko welcomes all pets. (Just be sure to inform the hotel if y ou plan to leave a Great Dane in y our r oom for the day , so they can aler t the housekeeping national monuments in washington dc staff!) The white marble lobby is stark, but kids will enjoy the indoor fountain, which has become a multi- currency wishing well. The hotel houses an on-site Starbucks and Anzu restaurant, which specializes in sushi and steak, but has a childr en s menu as well.