If you are wondering what to do in the city for Christmas or the holidays then read further. If you enjoy Christmas or not, there are lots of things to do in our enchanting city. So, let's get geared up and ready for some holiday fun. Many San Franciscans do their own thing for the holidays, but we all agree that having fun is the most important thing. Here are 10 awesome and enchanting things to enjoy and spend the holiday season in the 415.
1. Brunch at the Palace Hotel on 2 New Montgomery Street.
The Palace Hotel transforms into a holiday wonderland this time every year offering tea with Santa every Saturday in December. Also, there will be brunch seatings on Christmas Day, in either the Grand Ballroom or the exquisite 19th century Garden Court.
2. Ice skate at Union Square.
You can ice skate as well at Yerba Buena Gardens and the Embarcadero Center. The Union Square rink is the most special because you are amid the dynamic bustle of downtown and the shiny Christmas tree in the square.
3. Enjoy Jazz and Southern cuisine at Biscuits and Blues.
If you want to eat delicious food and get groovy then head to this jazz club at 401 Mason Street in San Francisco. Take advantage of discount tickets for this venue/restaurant, which was voted the No. 1 blues nightclub in the USA.
4. Explore Grace Cathedral and Huntington Park in Nob Hill.
Grace Cathedral is open to the public from 7am to 6pm, and based on the service schedule. Once you're at Huntington Park, adjacent to Grace Cathedral, you’ll find plenty to marvel at outside this majestic building. Walk around the church grounds and note the exquisite doors of solid bronze, and the labyrinth in front.
5. Check out snow village at the Hyatt Regency in Embarcadero Center.
Venture to the Embarcadero and indulge in some holiday lights and thrills. First, visit the Hyatt Regency hotel lobby and marvel at the Christmas displays then check out the iconic Snow Village. Also, the Embarcadero ice rink is very close.
6. Visit the San Francisco Botanical Gardens for free on Christmas.
The Botanical Gardens are Golden Gate Park’s most overlooked jewel. The park is free and open to everyone on Christmas Day, although San Francisco residents never pay an entrance fee. Explore 55 acres of native plants, succulents, magnolias, and more.
7. Geek out at 'Tis the Season for Science Fest at California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park.
Celebrate and enjoy the holidays with a little science. This festival and exhibition will feature performances by musicians, cultural groups, visitors can meet a pair of live reindeer, and experience indoor snow flurries! This event runs through January 8.
8. Top of the Mark: 999 California Street
Top of the Mark delivers top views, traditional Christmas food, and pianists serenading diners with traditional holiday tunes. This is a memorable and iconic place anytime of the year, so take advantage of the dramatic views of the city and bay when you visit.
9. Go to Winter Walk at Stockton Street between Geary and Ellis in Downtown.
Winter Walk lasts until December 31. Winter Walk features a light art show that is projected nightly onto Macy's as well as food trucks and carolers around the streets leading to Union Square. Get in the holiday spirit!
10. Holiday Lights at San Francisco Zoo
Venture out to the zoo and enjoy the 100 acre park, conservation center and Zoo under beautiful and bright lights. Expect to see Santa Claus, reindeer, and more. Festivities end on January 1.
What did you think of these enchanting things? Let us know your opinions, and also don't hesitate to give any suggestions too. If you're curious, check out The One Place In San Francisco That Looks Like Something From Middle Earth.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!