The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows

The Lafayette Hotel in the trendy North Park neighborhood in San Diego is quite different from the rest of the hotels on this list. It's a hip boutique property with a history dating back to 1946 and a roster of celebrities who have spent the night here. The Olympic-sized pool is a highlight, with day and annual use passes available for non-hotel guests and occasional DJs spinning tunes. Don't let the craft cocktails fool you, The Lafayette has family suites with bunk beds for the kids and a king bed for parents. Interior decor is vibrantly-colored and a bit retro, unlike the hotel's colonial facade. It's cool and you'll feel that way during your stay.