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Argonaut Hotel

Why We Like This Place

As befits its prime waterfront location on Fisherman’s Wharf, the Argonaut Hotel easily seduces visitors with an abundance of seaside and historic charm. A recent makeover has transformed the Argonaut—one of the main occupants of a landmark 1907 building that had once housed the wharf’s largest fruit and vegetable cannery—into a chic boutique hotel. The building’s exposed brick and wooden beams have been incorporated into the interior’s playful design concept, which takes its inspiration from the luxury cabins of Gold Rush-era steam ships bound for San Francisco. And like the excited passengers arriving here for the first time, your family and friends will be looking forward with anticipation to your celebration at the Argonaut.

First off, out-of-towners will be captivated by the iconic surroundings, and even locals will find themselves rediscovering its allure. The hotel overlooks the green stretch of the Maritime National Historical Park, as well as numerous antique vessels docked along the water’s edge. Everyone will want to capture classic photos in front of a cable car, or the bay with Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance.

Once inside, guests relax in the light and airy lobby, which is a playful interpretation of the ocean-journey motif. Navy blue deck chairs flank antique-style steamer trunks, and a working astronomer’s clock above the stately fireplace mantle contributes to the Argonaut’s nostalgic character.

The lobby’s nautical theme is echoed in the prefunction foyer, where guests enjoy the cocktail hour. Receptions follow in the Golden Gate Ballroom, which recalls the formality of first-class ocean travel when one always dressed for dinner. Yet be assured, the ambiance is neither stuffy nor ho-hum: Chandeliers are shaped like giant ships’ compasses and beautifully textured wall coverings reminiscent of woven jute add exotic, seafaring flavor. The spacious ballroom has a flexible layout, and can be sectioned off for a wedding ceremony or used altogether for one grand gala.

You can also tie the knot outdoors in the Del Monte Courtyard, landscaped with twinkle-lit trees. The bride makes her entrance down a brick staircase, and exchanges vows with her groom in front of the legendary skyline. The adjoining Maritime Room, with large windows and lofty ceilings, hosts social hours or intimate receptions. Brick walls, rough wooden columns and maritime-inspired accents lend an informal though no less authentic atmosphere.

All the hotel’s events feature superb coastal cuisine from its next-door restaurant, the Blue Mermaid Chowder House and Bar. The chef welcomes customized menus, but who could resist including one of the signature chowders and fresh, sustainably caught seafood dishes? This trendy dining spot is also available for private events, and has a patio that can be tented for rehearsal dinners or casual get-togethers.

Want more novelty? The hotel’s first floor houses the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park Museum Visitors Center, a unique social hour venue. Interactive displays of nautical memorabilia let guests drink in the neighborhood’s storied past along with their champagne. The Argonaut’s event pros can even arrange an intimate soiree aboard the tall ship Balclutha moored nearby.

After the festivities, guests retire to luxuriously outfitted accommodations, most with postcard views. Together with its 4-diamond service and amenities, the Argonaut offers an epic destination wedding experience.

Capacity

Ceremony	Reception/Special Events	Meetings
Max. Seated Indoors: 270 Max. Seated Outdoors: 270	Max. Seated Indoors: 320 Max. Seated Outdoors: 0 Max. Standing Indoors: 450 Max. Standing Outdoors: 0	Max. Seated: 300
CEREMONY CAPACITY: The Argonaut holds up to 270 seated guests both indoors and outdoors. EVENT/RECEPTION CAPACITY: The hotel accommodates 320 seated or 450 standing guests indoors (270 with a dance floor). MEETING CAPACITY: With over 8,500 square feet of private space, the Argonaut can accommodate groups ranging from 10–300 guests.

Fees & Deposits

An initial $2,000 deposit is required to confirm the date and time. A second deposit is due 60 days prior to the event. The estimated final balance is due 3 days prior to the event. Any overages or additional requests will be billed at the conclusion of the event. Ceremony and setup fees range $250–$1,000. Wedding packages start at $115/person for evening events and $100/person for daytime events. Non-package, à la carte meals range $50–85/person. Five-hour wedding packages include passed hors d’oeuvres, 1-hour open house bar, and the option of a 3-course meal, lunch or dinner buffet or heavy appetizer reception. Wine is included for 2 hours with the meal service, and a champagne toast is offered as well. Wedding packages also include chair covers and sashes, and complimentary accommodations for the night of the event. Special guest room rates may be negotiated. A 23% service charge and tax are additional.

Availability

Daily until midnight. Early morning hours by arrangement. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

Catering Provided Alcohol Provided Location Uses Ceremonies Wedding Receptions Special Events, Parties Business Functions/Meetings Rehearsal Dinners On-Site Accommodations Services/Amenities Catering: provided, approved outside catering allowed Kitchen Facilities: n/a Tables & Chairs: provided Linens, Silver, etc.: provided Restrooms: wheelchair accessible Dance Floor: provided Bride’s & Groom’s Dressing Areas: yes Meeting Equipment: full range Parking: valet or public garage Accommodations: 252 guest rooms Telephone: pay phones Outdoor Night Lighting: yes Outdoor Cooking Facilities: no Cleanup: provided View: SF cityscape, SF Bay and park Other: event coordination

Amplified Music Indoors w/ Restrictions Wheelchair Access Wheelchair Accessible Site Views Cityscape Ocean/Bay Park Venue Type Banquet Hall/Events Facility Hotel Waterfront/Beach Location Restrictions Alcohol: provided Smoking: outside only Music: amplified OK indoors with volume restrictions Wheelchair Access: yes Insurance: not required but recommended Other: no glitter, rice or birdseed

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