Where to stay? Like what Hotel?
If you're on budget Hampton Inn isn't too bad. Not fancy. Typical 3 to 3.5 star hotel.
Just use Hotwire if you're not picky.
If you're looking for baller status and pampering then I have no clue.
If you have a car, you should make the drive to San Fran. It's beautiful there. Very diverse. Has a crazy huge china town. The new acedemy of sciences is fucking amazing. Tons of amazing food.
http://www.calacademy.org/