Union Hotel

The Union Hotel (bed and breakfast) is an historic property in desperate need of TLC, pride of ownership, and a significant investment. We stayed 4 nights; long enough to find bathroom ceiling lights that did not work (yes, we reported this and it wasn’t fixed), worn out electrical outlets, not enough outlets, and a breakfast not worth bothering with. I have no idea who owns the Union; I just know it doesn’t need to be this way. Yes, it’s going to take a significant investment to make it meet the expectations of travelers seeking to enjoy a vacation in the lovely community of Benicia. I just hope that investment is made ASAP. Note: It pains me to write this review!

What we liked, this trip and one previous (11/2022) about our stay at the union hotel: 1) Friendliness & ‘workable solution’ of management & staff. Arrived with one night’s booking (Saturday/ Sunday they were full) and was allowed to choose a room where air conditioner was temporarily not working for a second night at a discounted rate appx. $26 higher than where we had planned to stay in Martinez and $80 LESS than the least expensive of Benicia’s 3 other (over priced) options!?! 2) Continental breakfast: find it hard to believe comments that disparage the fine Continental breakfast the Union hotel puts out. There’s not much chance that Union MIGHT have let it’s game slip between when we stayed here, November ‘22 and this weekend; it was great BOTH times. I feel it is more likely that people are really hooked on the plasticity of what is offered by chains? Do they not realize they are being ($80!?) over-charged for a breakfast they could get built into the Union hotel’s more reasonable rates? Selection was creative, had variety, and most of all allowed us to go through till lunch without hunger. 3) Charm, functionality, and simplicity of furnishings while providing a comfortably firm bed and good pillows. Especially appreciated 2 chairs and a couch. 4) Price: clearly still a stay-in-Benicia section. Rates were 1/3 less than all others.

We had the delightful experience of staying at the Union Hotel in Downtown Benicia. However a disclaimer: we do seek out 'Historical Hotels' and for us this one was a classic. Modernized some years ago but still retains an 'Old Feeling' of something special. Great location (heart of downtown / shops and restaurants / bars). Rooms were large and nicely appointed. Clean baths and linen. Very nice adjoining bar and restaurant. This place may not be for everyone, don't expect a lot of the amenities of the large corporate chains (concierge or bell captain service, a pool or underground parking). The hotel is privately owned and locally managed & staffed with everyone being friendly, courteous, helpful and great tour guides. If you are looking for that classic historical hotel that is so prevalent in our California small towns - this is a wonderful find! Looking forward to our next visit.