A road trip to check out Christmas light displays around San Francisco is sure to get anyone into the holiday spirit. This is a wonderful and enticing road trip you can take around the beautiful city's Christmas lights and dazzling holiday displays. The Christmas road trip around town will capture the beauty of neighborhoods like Noe Valley, Nob Hill, the Marina, Downtown, and more!
The best Christmas lights near San Francisco seem to be within a few areas, so this trip will be doable in a relatively short time. So take down some notes for this special road trip and get ready to buckle up. First things first, check out the road trip map:
1. Hyatt Regency
Start your holiday lights around San Francisco tour by the bay. The Hyatt Regency and Embarcadero Center features more than 17,000 lights. You can also enjoy ice skating at a holiday ice rink while taking in the scenery at Five Embarcadero. But the centerpiece is the Hyatt Regency San Francisco and the Christmas tree with 300,000 lights. Learn more about the Embarcadero Center and other great San Francisco Christmas attractions.
2. Ghirardelli Square
You have to check out the beautiful lit-up tree at Ghirardelli Square on this Christmas road trip. The lights will dazzle and excite the senses. Grab some chocolate to keep the buzz going too! Discover more about Ghirardelli Square.
3. Union Square
Next up, proceed to a popular attraction in San Francisco for more lights. The Union Square lights and display are across from the front entrance of Macy's. The dazzling Christmas tree will be decorated with many lights and 1,100 shining ornaments. This is a must-see for anyone looking for the best Christmas lights near San Francisco. Read more about Union Square and other San Francisco gems.
4. Fairmont Hotel
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From here, head uphill and check out the splendor of the Fairmount. This Christmas light display around San Francisco is not actually outside; the Fairmont Hotel is world-famous for its incredible two-story gingerbread house and candy displays. Don't forget to explore the Fairmount's lobby and be amazed by the 23-foot Christmas tree. Get more details on the Fairmount Hotel gingerbread house.
5. Civic Center
Now, you'll go downhill to City Hall to take in some more holiday lights around San Francisco. This time with civic pride. The tree at Civic Center Plaza is majestic, adorned with white lights. And City Hall dazzles in red and green for the holidays. Visit the website for the Civic Center for more information.
6. Union Street Fantasy of Lights
The final stop of this Christmas road trip is more serene and fitting for an end. Experience Union Street as it’s transformed into a holiday scene where kids can meet Santa. Last but not least, enjoy the sparking lights and make sure to catch the ponies dressed up like reindeer. Looking for a place to stay? Check out this bed and breakfast on Union Street and other places to stay in San Francisco.
What are your favorite Christmas light displays around San Francisco? Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below!
If you're curious about other great things in Fog City, check out these 10 unforgettable San Francisco tours.
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