A Historic Landmark Legacy

A treasure unveiled with the Palace Hotel's 1909 reopening, The Garden Court was simply breathtaking and destined to become the Grand Dame of San Francisco. Hailed as one of the most beautiful rooms in the world, The Garden Court is San Francisco's first designated interior landmark. 

Throughout her lifetime, The Garden Court has been the venue of choice for historic moments and magical celebrations.  Some of the nation's most prestigious events, including, in 1919, two luncheons hosted by President Woodrow Wilson in support of the Versailles Treaty ending World War I - took place in The Garden Court.  In 1945, the official banquet honoring the opening session of the United Nations was also held in the iconic venue.  

In 1989, the Palace closed for major renovation. This included the intricate process of restoring every element of The Garden Court.  In 1991, when the Palace reopened, San Franciscans lined up for 3 blocks, eagerly waited to see The Garden Court restored to her original grandeur. In 2006, The Garden Court was the center of the 1906 Earthquake Centennial commemorative event. In 2009, the unforgettable 100 Year Anniversary was celebrated under the moonlit glass dome ceiling and shimmering Austrian crystal chandeliers.  For more than one hundred years, The Garden Court has played an important role in San Francisco's Cotillion Debutante Ball. Each December, debutantes are celebrated at the Palace with a gala event that occupies all rooms in the hotel including a very elegant dinner held in The Garden Court.