Landmark attractions around the state are turning 100 in 2014
San Francisco
Port of San Francisco: Along the city’s waterfront, several buildings were constructed in 1914, including the Pier 43 Ferry Arch. Later this year, the Pier 43 Promenade Bay Trail project will complete construction, connecting Pier 39 with Taylor Street’s historic crab sellers and offering excellent views of the bay and the arch.
Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf: About 70 miles south of San Francisco is the birthplace of mainland surfing, Santa Cruz. The Santa Cruz Wharf, which dates to 1914, is one of the longest wooden piers in California, and is hosting centennial celebrations all year long.
Historic Hotels: Located steps from Union Square, the Clift Hotel was billed as San Francisco’s first earthquake- and fire-proof hotel. Hotel Union Square was once temporarily the home of author Dashiell Hammet, who is thought to have written some of his most famous works – such as “The Maltese Falcon” and the “Thin Man” series – while in residence there. The Groveland Hotel’s “Queen Anne Annex” is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is known for its resident ghost, Lyle, who is said to inhabit room 15. The Annex is hosting official 100th birthday celebrations this year.
Los Angeles
Beverly Hills: The city is celebrating its centennial, 100 years after its incorporation as a city on January 28, 1914. A variety of events will honor the occasion, including the Beverly Hills Centennial Party on April 27, to be held on Rodeo Drive.
The Langham Huntington, Pasadena: In honor of this landmark property’s centennial, guests can book the $100,000 Proposal of The Century Package to propose to their loved ones in grand style. The extravagant package includes private use of the Rose Bowl Stadium and a private serenade by the Pasadena Symphony Orchestra.
San Diego
Andaz San Diego: One of the most modernly equipped hotels of its time when it opened in 1914, the former Maryland Hotel was the only one in San Diego to have a bathroom attached to every room.
Spreckels Organ: This powerful instrument can be heard from up to three miles away. The organ was originally given to the city by John Dietrich Spreckels (of the Spreckels sugar fortune), and today the Spreckels Organ Society offers more than 100 yearly concerts.
