The building opened in 1928 as the Hotel Mark Twain, named after the famous American author. It was later almost immediately renamed, and after a major restoration in 2016, re-emerged as the Tilden Hotel.
Art Deco Heritage & Union Square Landmark
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant Union Square neighborhood, the Tilden Hotel occupies a storied structure that showcases early 20th-century architectural elegance. As part of the city’s enduring urban fabric, the building stands as a testament to Art Deco design that has gracefully withstood the test of time and transformation.
Art Deco Heritage & Union Square Landmark
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant Union Square neighborhood, the Tilden Hotel occupies a storied structure that showcases early 20th-century architectural elegance. As part of the city’s enduring urban fabric, the building stands as a testament to Art Deco design that has gracefully withstood the test of time and transformation.
Named After Sculptor Douglas Tilden
The hotel pays homage to Douglas Tilden, a deaf Chicano sculptor famed for his monuments in the city. Tilden was born in Chico in 1860, created notable works like the Admission Day Monument (1897) and Mechanics Monument (1901) on Market Street, and died in Berkeley in 1935. The hotel’s name celebrates his artistic legacy.
Billie Holiday’s Arrest
During its time as the Hotel Mark Twain, jazz icon Billie Holiday was reportedly arrested on the premises by police—a story tied to the hotel’s colorful past and later scrutiny in SilverKris’s feature on its reopening.
Billie Holiday’s Arrest
During its time as the Hotel Mark Twain, jazz icon Billie Holiday was reportedly arrested on the premises by police—a story tied to the hotel’s colorful past and later scrutiny in SilverKris’s feature on its reopening.
2016 Redesign by Studio Tack
Brooklyn’s Studio Tack led a comprehensive redesign, transforming the once-gritty SRO into a modern boutique hotel. The renovation retained original elements like steam heating, exposed piping, and decorative staircases, while adding minimalist, light-filled communal areas and updated 118 guest rooms.
2020 - Temporary Closure
Like much of San Francisco’s hospitality industry, Tilden Hotel closed temporarily in 2020 due to the global pandemic.
2020 - Temporary Closure
Like much of San Francisco’s hospitality industry, Tilden Hotel closed temporarily in 2020 due to the global pandemic.
2025 – A New Chapter Begins
Tilden Hotel has undergone a thoughtful renovation and refresh — and is now open. With a renewed focus on genuine hospitality, modern comfort, and relaxed city escapes, the hotel welcomes a new generation of travelers to experience San Francisco from the heart of Union Square. Experience the new Tilden today.