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Our History – The Guild Hotel, A San Diego Landmark Reimagined

Curators of Experiences. Brokers of Delight. Hosts of Timeless Hospitality.

Born in 1924. Reborn for the Modern Traveler.

The Guild’s oath
“… providing comforts and conveniences that will afford practically unlimited opportunity for pleasure and social diversions.”1924 Dedication

 

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1924: YMCA Opens

500 West Broadway would be home to the new Army Navy YMCA, and host to tens of thousands of guests within months of opening its doors.

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1924-1970: Army Navy YMCA

No one decade defines the building, from dedicated to the newest evolution, millions of guests have passed through the doors celebrating service, family and friends.

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2019: The Guild Opens

The Guild Hotel is a reimagination of the iconic historic Armed Services YMCA building in the heart of Downtown San Diego.

The Guild Hotel is a reimagination of the iconic, historic Armed Services Building with a rich YMCA history in the heart of downtown San Diego. Born in 1924 and reborn in 2019, The Guild, a Marriott San Diego Tribute Portfolio Hotel, seamlessly blends historic charm and modern amenities for an inspiring stay in America’s Finest City. Perfect for savoring an authentic downtown experience, our hotel is steps from Little Italy, the Bayfront, the historic USS Midway Museum, and also in close proximity to the renowned Gaslamp District, Petco Park, the home of the San Diego Padres, the San Diego Convention Center, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo ®, SeaWorld, Balboa Park, Seaport Village, and San Diego International Airport.

Explore and indulge in an unforgettable taste of modern nostalgia. high ceilings, original tilework, elegant archways and exposed brick walls complement our Riviera-style courtyard and Grace Garden, an outdoor urban oasis suitable for romantic soirees. Find sanctuary in our fashionable accommodations complete with complimentary Wi-Fi, Smart TVs, free bottled water and local artwork.

Whether planning a corporate retreat, fundraising gala, or a dream wedding, The Guild has a variety of uniquely restored, creative indoor and outdoor event spaces. Savor custom cocktails at The Guild Bar, or overtake our one-of-a-kind ballroom, which throughout our hundred-year history has hosted everything from boxing matches to Marine Balls. Dwell in luxury at The Guild Hotel, San Diego, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel.

A Century in the Making

The Guild Hotel began its story in 1924 as the Armed Services Building, originally serving as a YMCA for military service members in downtown San Diego. For decades, it stood as a cornerstone of community and camaraderie—hosting boxing matches, social gatherings, and a haven of rest for those serving our nation. Its high ceilings, ornate tilework, and grand archways reflected the architectural elegance of the era, while its walls held nearly a century of stories

A Thoughtful Reimagination

In 2019, this historic landmark was thoughtfully reborn as The Guild Hotel, a Marriott Tribute Portfolio Hotel. Carefully restored to preserve its original character, the hotel blends modern amenities with historic charm, offering guests an inspiring sense of modern nostalgia.

The preservation of exposed brick, vintage stonework, and elegant details provides a connection to its past, while newly designed interiors, stylish suites, and contemporary comforts ensure a refined and memorable stay.

In the Heart of San Diego

The Guild’s central location makes it the perfect base for exploring America’s Finest City. Just steps from Little Italy and the Bayfront, and only moments away from the Gaslamp Quarter, Petco Park, the USS Midway Museum, the San Diego Convention Center, and Seaport Village, the hotel offers unrivaled access to the city’s cultural, culinary, and coastal highlights.

For those venturing further, the San Diego Zoo®, Balboa Park, SeaWorld, and San Diego International Airport are only a short drive away.

A Modern Guest Experience

Today, The Guild Hotel invites guests to discover an inspired balance of past and present. Our fashionable accommodations feature complimentary Wi-Fi, Smart TVs, free bottled water, and curated local artwork.

Whether visiting for business, leisure, or celebration, The Guild offers creative event spaces, a stylish on-site bar, and the sophistication of a hotel that has been nearly a century in the making

The Guild Legacy

From its beginnings as a YMCA serving San Diego’s military community to its rebirth as a modern Tribute Portfolio destination, The Guild Hotel stands as a living piece of the city’s history—preserving the spirit of 1924 while embracing the best of today.