Marines' Memorial Club and Hotel 609 Sutter Street • San Francisco • California 94102

The Marines' Memorial Club is a hidden jewel in San Francisco's exciting Union Square area. This California Spanish Revival beauty was built in 1926, and in 1946 became a memorial to the Marines who lost their lives during World War II. Today, the landmark is a nonprofit club for veterans and their families—and also a fine hotel and special event facility.

The club's rich architectural heritage, first-class food and service, and nostalgically elegant décor bring extra dimensions to any celebration. The entire 10th and 11th floors are dedicated to sophisticated and unique banquet and meeting spaces. Weddings on the 11th floor might begin with a ceremony in the exquisite, take-your-breath-away Crystal Ballroom. A vaulted hand-painted ceiling holds three massive crystal chandeliers. Their ornate prisms shimmer over the gleaming candelabra, and the ballroom's oval shape lends a soft intimacy to the magnificent space. For ceremonies, the staff sets up a raised dais flanked by a pair of ficus trees festooned with twinkle lights. After the service, guests retire to the Crystal Lounge, connected to the ballroom by a foyer. Everyone toasts the happy couple, while taking in the sweeping city view from the Lounge's wall of vaulted windows. (Tear your eyes away from the luminous cityscape for a moment, and admire the Lounge's gold-leafed and frescoed ceiling.) When it's time to dine, guests return to the Crystal Ballroom, which has been transformed with themed linens, silver candelabra centerpieces, and a dance floor.

An equally impressive option awaits on the 10th floor. There's a stately majesty about the Commandant's Ballroom, thanks to a 22-foot-high intricately painted and coffered ceiling, wood detailing, and striking iron chandeliers with matching sconces. Enhancing this ballroom's splendor are vaulted east-facing windows that capture a sparkling city vista. Just as with the Crystal Ballroom, the Commandant's serves as the setting for both ceremonies and lavish receptions. During the cocktail hour, the nearby Heritage and Regimental Rooms, which are connected by an adjoining foyer, are set for cocktail service. Guests can get their drinks from bars set up in either room, then relax at cocktail tables holding flickering votive candles. The Regimental Room looks out toward Nob Hill, and is clad in mahogany paneling. A built-in bar comes in handy during a cocktail hour or rehearsal dinner, and a working fireplace adds to the clubby atmosphere. The Heritage Room enjoys views of Nob Hill and downtown, and Art Deco chandeliers convey a bit of whimsy. Returning to the Commandant's Ballroom for the reception and dancing completes the evening's revelry.

Events at the Club are catered in-house, and feature gourmet contemporary American cuisine. Renovated guest rooms and suites provide a comfortable overnight stay. Newlyweds love Suite #403's oversized tub-for-two; its spacious living room and wall of mirrors are great for pre-wedding primping. The Leatherneck Steakhouse on the 12th floor showcases a stunning panorama with glimpses of the bay over towering skyscrapers—what a dynamic spot for a rehearsal dinner! Though shopping and nightlife is right outside the Club's door, the Marines' Memorial is marvelously self-contained: it also has a health club, an indoor pool, a library, a museum, and its own theater! Whether you are a veteran or civilian, you're sure to find a warm welcome at this timeless club.