The charm of San Francisco climbs to new heights when Christmas comes to town. Last week we enjoyed a quick get-away to this city — one of my favorite places. We arrived at the Grand Hyatt on Union Square and right away found Christmas in the elegant lobby. 
It’s easy to fill a couple of days with fun activities here. As always, we rode cable cars. And some sported holiday decorations. 
We strolled along Fisherman’s Wharf and the marina, gazed across the water at the abandoned prison of Alcatraz, and took in the sunset as lights popped on all over the city. 
Along the wharf, we found this towering Christmas tree at Pier 39. 
A visit to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Ghirardelli Square and the original chocolate factory. We found another festive tree, and we may have had hot fudge sundaes here. Shhh! 
Next we hopped on a cable car and rode back up and down the steep streets in the crisp night air, until the sight of Union Square signaled that we were “home” for the evening. 
Not ready to call it a day, we decided to explore the iconic St. Francis Hotel, built in 1904. Here are so many Christmas delights. 
This tree in the lobby is hung with framed photos that tell the history of the hotel. 
Several frames featured this little dog. 
Curious, I asked the concierge if she knows about this pup. Yes, that’s a dog who was found in the rubble of the hotel after the 1906 earthquake. The hotel was demolished in the quake, but the dog survived and was adopted by the hotel cook. His name? Francis, of course. This little guy became a symbol of hope during the rebuilding of the city after the fires and devastation. In the gift shop you’ll find a colorful book telling the story of this honored puppy. 
This season is a wonderful time to visit San Francisco. 
How about you? What’s your favorite place to visit this time of year?
7 Comments
So festive!!
Look at the amazing blue sky
Mollyxxx
Beautiful photos – and beautifully decorated trees.
Thanks for joining us at http://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2016/12/dominus-flevit.html
Oh how lovely! You have definitely found Christmas!
I love San Francisco but have never been there at Christmas. Beautiful! My favorite tree has the framed photos. Great idea!
Wow! San Francisco is dressed to impress for the season! I am going to New York this week and expect to see tons of beautiful decorations. #WordlessWanderlust
Great collection.