Hotel Shattuck Plaza

Located in a historic, Mission-style structure, the Hotel Shattuck Plaza is Berkeley's top hotel. Its name pays homage to Francis K. Shattuck, a representative in the California State Assembly, a former Oakland mayor, and a prominent figure in Berkeley's early history. Originally christened the Shattuck Hotel, the property was designed by architect Benjamin McDougall, and first opened its doors in 1910. Built near the site of Shattuck's former estate, the project was approved by his widow, Rosa, and was erected in his memory. It's undergone a series of changes over the years: An annex was constructed in 1914; a covered arcade was added in 1926; and an extensive renovation was completed in 2009. Nowadays, the 199-room hotel is owned and operated by Radiate Hospitality. It occupies a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, and anchors Downtown Berkeley, much like it did over a century ago. And with its proximity to two international airports and a Bay Area Rapid Transit station, it serves as an excellent base from which to explore the city that grew up around it.