San Francisco, October 21, 2025
News Summary
The iconic Phoenix Hotel in San Francisco will close by January 1, 2026, as announced by owner Chip Conley. Financial challenges, worsening conditions in the Tenderloin district, and an expiring land lease were cited as reasons for the closure. Originally opened in 1956 and rebranded as the Phoenix in 1987, the hotel has a rich history of hosting famous musicians and cultural events. As a farewell, Conley will hold events throughout 2025 to celebrate the hotel’s legacy in the community.
San Francisco – The Phoenix Hotel, a renowned rock ‘n’ roll refuge in San Francisco, will officially close its doors on January 1, 2026. This decision was announced by owner Chip Conley, citing financial challenges, deteriorating conditions in the Tenderloin district, and an expiring land lease as contributing factors to the closure.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the hotel has experienced ongoing financial losses, significantly impacting its profitability. Located at 601 Eddy Street in the Tenderloin neighborhood, the Phoenix features 44 rooms, a courtyard pool, and midcentury architecture.
Originally built in 1956 as the Caravan Motor Lodge, the hotel was rebranded as the Phoenix in 1987 by Conley, who was inspired by concert promoter Bill Graham to create a distinctive rock ‘n’ roll hotel. Over the years, the Phoenix has gained a rich history by hosting a variety of famous musicians, including David Bowie, Pearl Jam, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Kurt Cobain.
The hotel has been a focal point for numerous events, such as parties, weddings, and album launches, establishing itself as a cultural landmark in San Francisco. As part of the farewell to this iconic establishment, Conley plans to host a series of farewell events throughout 2025 to celebrate the hotel’s enduring legacy prior to its permanent closure.
For nearly four decades, the Phoenix Hotel has served as a sanctuary for artists, musicians, locals, and travelers, embodying San Francisco’s counterculture and rebellious spirit. Conley reminisced about his journey from owning a rundown motel to creating Joie de Vivre, a successful boutique hotel brand that once managed 52 properties.
In June, the San Francisco Baking Institute purchased the property for $9.1 million. Discussions regarding a lease renewal took place but ultimately did not lead to an extension. Despite the closure announcement, the hotel will remain open for bookings and events through the end of the year, with growing interest in accommodations leading up to this date.
Conley expressed appreciation for the significant memories associated with the Phoenix Hotel, recognizing its substantial impact on the music and art scene over the decades. The hotel has built a legacy that will long be remembered by the community and its frequent visitors.
Key Features of the Phoenix Hotel
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | 601 Eddy Street, Tenderloin, San Francisco |
| Number of Rooms | 44 |
| Original Name | Caravan Motor Lodge |
| Rebranding Year | 1987 |
| Famous Guests | David Bowie, Pearl Jam, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Kurt Cobain |
| Property Purchase | $9.1 million by the San Francisco Baking Institute |
| Closure Date | January 1, 2026 |
FAQ
When will the Phoenix Hotel close?
The Phoenix Hotel will officially close on January 1, 2026.
Why is the Phoenix Hotel closing?
The closure is due to financial challenges, deteriorating conditions in the Tenderloin district, and an expiring land lease.
What is the history of the Phoenix Hotel?
Originally built in 1956 as the Caravan Motor Lodge, the hotel was rebranded as the Phoenix in 1987 by Chip Conley, who was encouraged by Bill Graham to create a rock ‘n’ roll hotel.
What kind of events has the Phoenix Hotel hosted?
The hotel has hosted numerous events, including parties, weddings, and album launches, making it a cultural landmark in San Francisco.
Who are some celebrity guests that have stayed at the Phoenix Hotel?
The hotel has hosted famous musicians including David Bowie, Pearl Jam, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Kurt Cobain.
What will happen to the property after it closes?
In June, the San Francisco Baking Institute purchased the property for $9.1 million, but discussions regarding lease renewal did not result in an extension.
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Additional Resources
- Axios: Phoenix Hotel Closure
- Wikipedia: Phoenix Hotel (San Francisco)
- Kron4: Iconic San Francisco Hotel Closure
- Google Search: Phoenix Hotel San Francisco
- SF Standard: Phoenix Hotel Overview
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Phoenix Hotel
- SFGate: Culturally Stimulating Hotel Closure
- Google News: Phoenix Hotel Closure
- KTVU: Favorite Touring Musicians Shutter
- Hotel Investment Today: Phoenix to Shut Its Doors
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
