Downtown San Francisco’s Best Holiday Photo Ops
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Looking for the perfect backdrop for your holiday memories? Downtown San Francisco is sparkling with festive photo ops that are perfect for sharing with friends and family or just creating those unforgettable holiday moments. Here’s where to strike a pose and capture the magic!
Rock Around the 555 California St Tree
This giant glittering tree is a Downtown San Francisco holiday icon. After you capture your photo-op moment, warm up at The Vault Garden or Blitzen’s Holiday bar at Omni Hotel for a cozy bite and seasonal sip.
📍 555 California Street
Walk in a Winter Wonderland at The Vault Garden
The viral Winter Wonderland is back at The Vault Garden until December 30th! Snap a dazzling shot on their patio adorned with glittering lights, festive décor, and comfy heated seating. Plus, an expansive view of the 555 California Christmas Tree. It’s basically a holiday dream come true!
📍 555 California Street
The Winter Greenhouse at 1 Hotel San Francisco
Baby, it’s cold outside but not here! This holiday season, Terrene's covered and heated patio transforms into The Winter Greenhouse, a cozy retreat filled with glowing lanterns, evergreens, and seasonal cheer. Enjoy this winter getaway until January 9th from 4pm to 10pm.
📍8 Mission Street
Embarcadero Centers Tower lights
The Embarcadero Center lights up the San Francisco skyline with 17,000 sparkling lights outlining its towers. It’s a breathtaking backdrop for those sweeping city shots that scream holiday magic.
📍 2 Embarcadero Center
Decked the Streets with these Giant Ornaments
Check out these massive red ornaments stacked high on 101 California St. A bold, cheerful display that’s perfect for holiday fun with friends and family.
📍 101 California Street
A Dazzling Star at Market Center
Be the star of the season with this Giant Glittering Star located at Market Center, right between 555 and 575 Market St. This oversized, glittering star is the ultimate holiday photo backdrop.
📍 555–575 Market Street
A Twinkling Ornament at Crocker Galleria
Nestled in the heart of the Crocker Galleria and surrounded by glowing Christmas trees, this radiant, light-filled ornament is the perfect spot to capture unforgettable holiday memories.
📍 50 Post St
Merchants Exchange Tree
Another beautifully decorated tree fills the historic Merchants Exchange Building with festive joy. This elegant display is perfect for a classic holiday photo that feels timeless and bright.
📍 465 California Street
Russ Building Tree
Snap a glamorous shot in front of this stunning tree inside the Russ Building, surrounded by festive decor and holiday cheer. It’s the perfect spot for a cozy and elegant photo.
📍 235 Montgomery Street
Omni Hotel Tree
The Omni Hotel’s vibrant holiday tree is pure festive elegance. Perfect for a quick photo before heading to Blitzen’s Holiday Bar for seasonal cocktails and cozy vibes.
📍 500 California Street