8 Best Hotels in The Central Valley, California

Erected in 1928 during the Oil Rush era, the eight-story Padre is a sophisticated contemporary haven. Inside and out, a $18-million renovation completed in 2010 pays homage to the hotel's colorful history: the exterior reflects much of the original Spanish Colonial Revival character; the marble-tiled lobby's neoclassical columns sparkle again; and the rooms and suites bear names such as the Oil Baron, Head Honcho, 40 Winks, and Maverick. Amenities include spa tubs, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi throughout the building, and five dining venues, the fanciest of which, the elegant, neoclassical Belvedere ($$$), emphasizes fresh, seasonal California fare. Noteworthy among the others, the second-floor rooftop lounge pleases with its views and fire pits, and the Farmacy café is open from 6 am to 10 pm.

Easily Stockton's nicest nonchain property, the glass-walled University Plaza is also one of the city's most conveniently located large hotels: overlooking McLeod Lake and Miners Levee, it's near the Stockton Arena, Banner Island Ballpark, the Haggin Museum, and the Bob Hope Theatre. It's also quite fabulous and packed with perks such as free Wi-Fi everywhere and Starbucks coffee in all the guest rooms. The rooms' thoughtful layout—the desks are large and the data ports and electrical outlets are easily accessible—keeps the hotel's business clientele happy, and the comfortable beds, crisp decor, and fancy bath products leave them and the many leisure travelers feeling pampered indeed. The hotel's Delta Bistro and Lounge serves American favorites and pours local wines and clever cocktails.

A safe choice, the full-service Marriott caters to the business and convention crowd with spacious, tech-updated rooms that also serve vacationing families well. Welcome splashes of color enliven the public spaces, and the room furnishings are handsome and smartly arranged. All rooms have flat-screen high-def TVs and high-speed Wi-Fi and are stocked with nice bath products.

Its downtown location is the lodge's primary draw—the McHenry Mansion and the McHenry Museum are nearby, and the county historical library is across the street. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, microwaves, refrigerators, and 32-inch flat-screen TVs.

Attentive service and generous breakfasts are touted at this clean chain hotel on the fringes of historic downtown. This is as good as it gets in a rather fragrant agriculture-driven town, and it's not too shabby.

The city's largest hotel, adjacent to the convention center, rises 15 stories above downtown. Rooms include free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs.

Fountains, lush lawns, and exotic plants provide a spectacular setting for this hotel. Occupying 7½ acres in Bakersfield's business district, it's a mile west of Highway 99. The large rooms come equipped with coffeemakers, irons, hair dryers, and free Wi-Fi access. The pool is just shy of Olympic size.

Close to downtown and near many upscale restaurants, this is a good choice for business and pleasure travelers. The spacious and quiet rooms have large desks and flat-screen televisions with 30 channels.