A Last-Minute Holiday Getaway Guide to Union Square, San Francisco

The Magic of a Spontaneous San Francisco Holiday

Sometimes the best holidays are the ones you don’t overthink. A last-minute getaway to San Francisco brings the perfect mix of festive energy and laid-back charm, especially around Union Square.

Here at The Marker, we love this season. The city sparkles with lights, the shops stay open late, and there’s an unmistakable warmth in the air. Whether you’re planning a quick escape before the new year or seeking a cozy place to unwind after the holidays, we’re here to make your trip effortless.

Union Square in December: San Francisco’s Festive Core

Union Square is the epicenter of the holiday season, where tradition, culture, and design collide in the most beautiful way. From the towering Christmas tree to the sound of the cable cars rolling by, it’s a scene that captures San Francisco at its most alive.

Spend an afternoon gliding across the Union Square Ice Rink, wander past shimmering storefronts like Tiffany & Co. and Saks Fifth Avenue, or stop for hot chocolate beneath the lights. Each corner feels like a story waiting to unfold, and with The Marker just a few blocks away, you can experience it all on foot.

If you’re planning a San Francisco Christmas vacation, this part of the city balances festive bustle with easy walkability, making it ideal for spontaneous travelers and weekend wanderers alike.

Our Boutique Hotel Near Union Square

At The Marker San Francisco, we believe that even a last-minute trip deserves intentional design and thoughtful detail.

Our historic building blends Art Nouveau architecture with modern boutique comfort, offering a creative yet cozy retreat after a day in the city. Each of our Rooms & Suites is individually styled, featuring plush bedding, vibrant accents, and a little dose of San Francisco personality.

And because we know travel isn’t always planned weeks in advance, our Offers are built for flexibility, from extended stays to last-minute rates and early check-in options.

Unwind, Recharge, and Feel at Home

A last-minute trip doesn’t mean you need to compromise on comfort. At The Marker, every detail is designed to help you settle in quickly and make the most of your time in the city.

Wake up to freshly brewed coffee and soft morning light filtering through colorful guestroom windows. Step into a lobby alive with quiet energy, travelers chatting over tea, the soft hum of the city outside, and staff who greet you by name even if it’s your first stay.

Our 24-hour fitness center is a guest favorite in winter, open, airy, and equipped for everything from high-energy Peloton rides to slow morning stretches. It’s the kind of space that makes it easy to keep your rhythm, even when you’re away from home.

For those bringing pets along, our pet-friendly rooms ensure everyone feels welcome (and yes, we mean everyone). With curbside valet, easy public transit connections, and thoughtful touches like complimentary Wi-Fi, The Marker blends boutique style with genuine practicality, perfect for travelers who value both design and ease.

Whether you’re in San Francisco for a few nights or extending your stay into the new year, you’ll find comfort comes naturally here.

Festive Things to Do Around Union Square

If you’re arriving in December, you’ll find no shortage of experiences nearby:

• Union Square Ice Rink – A San Francisco tradition that continues well into the new year. The Safeway Holiday Ice Rink is open daily through January 19, 2026, inviting guests to skate beneath the city skyline surrounded by twinkling lights and festive music.
• Cable Car Rides – a classic way to see the city’s holiday lights from Fisherman’s Wharf to Market Street.

• Theater Nights – The Curran Theater and American Conservatory Theater host beloved seasonal performances.

• Pop-Up Markets and Art Exhibits – discover limited-time boutiques, galleries, and handmade gifts across downtown.

• Festive Dining – join us at Tratto for cozy Italian plates and cocktails, or explore Michelin-worthy spots nearby.

If you’re visiting for a mix of work and leisure, our Meetings & Events spaces offer elegant settings for corporate celebrations or end-of-year gatherings.

Winter Shopping, San Francisco Style

There’s a reason Union Square is known as the city’s shopping capital, and post-holiday sales make December and January some of the best times to browse.

Explore legacy brands at Macy’s and Chanel, pick up local artisan finds at Gump’s, or uncover design-forward boutiques tucked between Geary and Post Streets. For something playful, stop by the Nintendo Store or Pop Mart, ideal for creative, last-minute gifts.

Every storefront feels like part of the holiday story, elegant, nostalgic, and filled with possibility.

Smart Tips for Planning a Last-Minute San Francisco Holiday Trip

Traveling to San Francisco on short notice doesn’t have to feel rushed. The city’s compact layout, walkable neighborhoods, and mild winter weather make it easy to plan on the go — especially when you stay near Union Square. Here’s how to make the most of your time, even if you’ve booked your getaway at the last minute:

Pack for the City’s Microclimates
San Francisco winters are famously mild, but the weather can change block by block. Bring layers you can add or remove easily, a lightweight sweater for downtown, a warmer coat for the waterfront, and something cozy for evenings out.

Make Flexible Reservations
Spontaneous doesn’t mean unprepared. Many restaurants near Union Square hold tables for walk-ins, especially between Christmas and New Year’s when locals are away. If your must-try spot is booked, explore smaller wine bars or independent eateries tucked along Geary and O’Farrell Streets; some of the city’s best meals happen off the main drag.

Use The Marker as Your Launchpad
Our central location puts the best of San Francisco within a 15-minute walk or ride. Cable cars and BART stations are right around the corner, making it easy to reach the Embarcadero, North Beach, or Golden Gate Park without the stress of driving. Ask our team for help with directions, hidden gems, or same-day activity ideas — we’re locals, after all.

Take Advantage of Post-Holiday Offers
If you’re visiting just after Christmas, you’ll catch one of the best times for value. Hotel rates often dip, restaurants run seasonal prix-fixe menus, and Union Square’s shops hold major clearance events. Check our Offers page for current packages and exclusive winter savings.

Plan for the Perfect Balance of Energy and Ease
December in San Francisco is lively but never overwhelming. Enjoy the bustle of shoppers and lights in Union Square, then retreat to our boutique spaces for a quieter evening with a cocktail at Tratto, or unwind in our art-filled lobby before heading out again. It’s city energy, without the chaos.

A Holiday Stay That Feels Effortless

Even when booked at the last minute, your stay at The Marker is never an afterthought. We’ve designed every touchpoint, from check-in to morning coffee, to feel personal, flexible, and inspiring.

If you’re looking for last-minute holiday travel deals in San Francisco, explore our Offers and discover why Union Square is the perfect setting for your end-of-year escape.