The major decorations-must-sees-are located just a few blocks from The Inn at Union Square. Of course, Union Square has its famed Christmas tree, a gift to the city from Macy's. Union Street is likewise very picturesque with its charming shop window displays. Ghirardelli Square has its own Christmas tree as well. For something uniquely San Francisco, head to the water at Fisherman's Wharf, along Jefferson Street between Jones and Taylor Streets. Many of the boats of the fishing fleet decorated and lit up. The combination of the lights against the stippled water is simply magical!
If the thought of creating your own tour seems daunting, or if you'd rather leave the curating to a local, you can always join a trolley tour of the city lights. You'll make new friends cruising around the city, across the Bay Bridge, and out to Treasure Island-the only tour in the city, by the way, that travels out to there. Tours begin at Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square, and are sure to be as much of a learning experience about the Fog City as they are fun and memorable. Grab a few candy canes, some hot cocoa, and an open mind!