I’ve always heard of the Fairmont San Francisco’s wonderful holiday decorations, but never had a chance to see them in person. I recently spent the night there while in town for business. I not only got to see their beautiful displays up close, but also toured this historic building, which offers much more than meets the eye to lucky guests who stay here.
The lobby is quiet now, but will soon be a popular holiday tourist attraction.
Here are twelve reasons why you should stay at the Fairmont San Francisco, whether you are visiting from out of town, or a Bay Area local looking for a fun family outing. (West Coast readers: take advantage of the low fare sales right now for a weekend getaway to SF!)
- Beautiful lobby decorations including a 2 story gingerbread house. (Due to the popularity of the holiday display, public hours may be limited, but hotel guests are guaranteed access.)
Fun fact: They use so much candy it has to be ordered in July.
- Family-friendly accommodations: Spacious rooms, many that can sleep up to 5. And double rooms have 2 queen beds, often hard to find in the city! For an even jollier stay, book the Santa Suite. And all suites have a sofabed! (You would be surprised how often hotel suites only accommodate 2 people.)
This closet! Parents who want privacy can put a crib or rollaway in it. (Trust me, many kids would love this space.)
There are lots of suites that connect to other rooms, so bring the whole family!
Not all suites are alike. I can help select the one with the space you need.
- Exclusive Virtuoso amenities for my clients: Daily breakfast for two, $100 food and beverage credit, upgrade on arrival if available, early checkin/late checkout if available, wifi.
Use your Virtuoso breakfast amenity to eat at the buffet or order ala carte.
The staff is so friendly!
- Another exclusive for my clients: Access to a private Holiday VIP lounge with snacks served 3x daily.
The Holiday VIP Lounge does not open until Dec 14. But don’t worry, I did a quality control check in the Laurel Court bar
- A private outdoor garden for guests (and dogs) to enjoy.
It’s nice to have a quiet retreat when in the middle of a city.
- The only luxury hotel with panoramic bay views.
Alcatraz and Angel Island visible from my room. On higher floors, you can also see the Golden Gate Bridge.
And for even better views, book a corner suite!
- Rooms with balconies, too!
They overlook the garden, and face the bay.
- An excellent location – walk to Chinatown, Market Street, Union Square.
I never tire of visiting Chinatown.
- Tonga Room and Hurricane Bar with live music in the evening – only hotel guests can make advance reservations.
The Tonga Room was closed for a private event during my stay, but no worries, there were many other ways to get a festive drink.
- Excellent use of space: Plenty of outlets, and even USB ports by the bed. And I loved the hidden coffee cupboard with a Keurig (my preference over Nescafe).
Cupboard closed – nice and clean for those of us who don’t like hotel room clutter.
Shelf pulls out for easy access, push it back in when done.
- Chromecast in every room so you can stream holiday shows from your laptop or mobile device.
Love the new decor, all rooms and suites were renovated in 2015.
- There’s a dining table inside the gingerbread house! (Be sure to reserve it early.)
Available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
I loved this hotel so much, I booked my own family for another visit before Christmas so that they can enjoy the holiday magic, too.
Contact me to book your stay at the Fairmont San Francisco. There are many room configurations in two different buildings, so I can explain the pros and cons to pick the best one for you, ensure you receive the exclusive Virtuoso amenities, and reach out to my contact at the hotel to personally oversee your reservation and VIP you.
