If you manage to be in San Francisco this holiday season, Union Square in the heart of the city, has plenty to offer.  Because it’s very tourist-centric, it seems they put extra effort in making the Square really pretty and festive.  Here are some activities and sights to see while you’re wandering around.

Holiday Ice Rink

Whether you’re wobbly on ice skates or trying to perfect a double toe loop (?!) Union Square has an outdoor ice rink for you.  It’s open now through January 15th.  They offer lessons and you can rent skates.  Get your tickets in advance online here.

Winter Walk

This is a festive holiday street fair where many of the streets around Union Square are closed to cars and turned over to pedestrians.  The Winter Walk runs December 14-24 and is open daily.  There will be special live performances, food trucks and festive activities.  Also check out special shopping opportunities at the Indoor Holiday Marketplace at 100 Stockton Street.  You’ll be supporting local businesses and probably find unique gifts. Much more detail is located here.  I definitely need to mention that it’s free to the public and super easy to get to via public transportation.

Macy’s Great Tree

Macy’s has its traditional tree in the center of Union Square and it makes the claim of San Francisco’s most recognizable Christmas tree.  It’s on display from now until January 1st. Needless to say, it’s hard to miss.

Westin St. Francis: Holiday Tea and the Grand Sugar Castle

This is one of San Francisco’s oldest hotels, opened more than a century ago in 1904.  The only hotel located right on Union Square, you can easily hop on a cable car and go exploring all over the city.  During the holiday season the Westin holds their traditional Christmas brunch which is on offer from December 22-30.  They also have a holiday tea where you can enjoy some amazing desserts in a one of a kind setting.  Don’t forget to check out the famous Sugar Castle in the Landmark Lobby of the hotel.  It is on display now through January 2nd.  New this year is an augmented reality experience where scanning a QR code will let you explore the inside of the sugar coated masterpiece.

Here’s to a fabulous holiday season at Union Square or wherever you may be.  Please enjoy and until next time,

May the road rise to meet you and the wind be at your back