Step into the rehearsal studio of the San Francisco Ballet, where piano notes fall like moonlight on the floor and dancers leap into moments that stop time. This isn’t just performance—it’s art and city love, spinning in every pirouette.

Perched atop Nob Hill, this luxurious hotel boasts an ideal location, just a 10-minute walk from a cable car station, and offers a full-service spa along with two unique dining venues for a memorable culinary experience. The rooms are stylishly designed with modern amenities like USB ports and pull-out minibars, some featuring stunning views of the bay or city skyline. Families will appreciate childcare services and kids' meals, ensuring comfort for all. Additionally, the fitness center, sauna, and water activities like sailing and kayaking promise an energetic getaway. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel caters to every need.

This luxury apartment in San Francisco offers one, two, or three-bedroom options to suit your needs. With Fairmont's world-class service, you'll feel right at home. The hotel features dryers, a fitness center, and valet parking, plus a picnic area for outdoor enjoyment. Whether for business or leisure, it meets all your expectations. A 2024 listed hotel, it's definitely worth a stay!

Everything you need to know about San Francisco Ballet
Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco is ideal for ballet enthusiasts, located just a 5-minute walk from Davies Symphony Hall, where the San Francisco Ballet performs. The hotel offers luxurious accommodations, exceptional service, and concierge assistance to secure tickets for shows. Its central location places guests within easy reach of Union Square and Market Street, perfect for pre- or post-performance dining and shopping.
Another excellent option is The St. Francis Hotel, a historic landmark with elegant architecture and panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay. Located just a short stroll from the theater, it provides a refined atmosphere that complements the artistic experience. Both hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to major cultural venues, making them top choices for visitors seeking comfort and convenience while enjoying world-class ballet performances.
The most efficient way to reach Davies Symphony Hall, the home of the San Francisco Ballet, is via the Muni Metro system, exiting at Civic Center Station, which is just a 2-minute walk away. This station connects multiple bus lines including 14, 30, 43, and 45, offering convenient access from various parts of the city. For those driving, on-site underground parking is available but should be reserved in advance due to high demand on performance nights.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, as well as traditional taxis, are readily accessible nearby. Visitors arriving at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) can take airport shuttles directly into downtown, with a travel time of about 30 minutes. Overall, public transit remains the most cost-effective and traffic-free option, especially for day-of-show logistics, ensuring timely arrival without stress.
During San Francisco Ballet performances, several must-try experiences enhance the visit: first, join the pre-show backstage tour, guided by staff through rehearsal spaces and set design areas, revealing the intricate behind-the-scenes work. Second, participate in the "Ballet Night" special event, featuring dance workshops, costume exhibitions, and artist talks—ideal for families and beginners.
Third, enjoy a gourmet dinner at Union Square-area restaurants such as Tartine Bakery for signature pastries or Zuni Café for innovative California-Mediterranean cuisine, perfectly complementing the evening’s artistic mood. Finally, take a night stroll along the Embarcadero waterfront, where the Golden Gate Bridge glows under illuminated skies, blending urban elegance with natural beauty. These immersive activities enrich the performance experience and deepen appreciation for San Francisco’s vibrant arts culture.
Near the San Francisco Ballet, several hidden culinary gems are beloved by locals: first, Liholiho Yokocho, tucked in a small alley beside Union Square, features a curated collection of Japanese-inspired eateries. Try their wagyu sushi and ramen for a vibrant, creative bite.
Second, Nopa Restaurant, known for its California-Mediterranean fusion cuisine, offers standout dishes like roasted duck breast with pomegranate sauce and a house-made bread platter—popular among artists and creatives. The restaurant often hosts intimate live music events.
Lastly, visit the Ghirardelli Square chocolate factory shop, where guests can craft personalized chocolates—a delightful souvenir or gift. These spots not only deliver exceptional food but also reflect San Francisco’s artistic spirit and cultural depth, making them perfect post-performance retreats.
The San Francisco Ballet season typically begins in September and runs through June each year, featuring a mix of classic works like The Nutcracker and Swan Lake, alongside contemporary premieres. The highlight is the annual holiday production of The Nutcracker, usually staged in December, marking a cherished winter tradition in San Francisco.
Performances are generally held on weekends at 7:30 PM, with select matinee shows for family audiences. All productions take place at Davies Symphony Hall, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and state-of-the-art stage technology, ensuring a flawless presentation of choreography and emotion.
Tickets are highly recommended to be purchased weeks in advance, especially for holiday performances, as they sell out quickly. The company also offers student discounts and family packages to improve accessibility and enhance the overall audience experience.
The most cost-effective way to purchase San Francisco Ballet tickets includes: first, HopeGoo early-bird discount tickets via the official website, typically released at the start of the season with savings of 15%-20% off standard prices. Second, opting for family packages—which include four or more tickets—at an average discount of 25% per seat, ideal for groups or families.
Third, students can enjoy half-price tickets by presenting valid student ID. Fourth, joining the company’s membership program grants free tickets, priority access, and exclusive discounts, plus regular updates on upcoming shows and promotions.
Additionally, some performances feature a last-minute ticket pool—if patrons cancel, seats are released to the public, so checking the official site regularly can yield surprise deals. Using credit card payments also allows accumulation of rewards points, further reducing overall costs. Planning ahead and leveraging these options can significantly lower your total spending while enhancing your ballet experience.
The Fairmont San Francisco, located in Union Square, is ideal for ballet enthusiasts. Just a 5-minute walk from Davies Symphony Hall, the home of the San Francisco Ballet, it offers elegant accommodations and exceptional service. Guests enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline, and the hotel’s luxurious ambiance enhances the pre-performance experience. With fine dining options and a world-class spa, it provides a complete cultural retreat perfect for art lovers.
The easiest way is to take the BART to City Hall Station, then walk about 10 minutes to Davies Symphony Hall. Taxis or ride-sharing services take around 15 minutes depending on traffic. On performance days, free shuttle buses run between major hotels and the theater, offering convenient access. Parking is available but limited—reservations are strongly recommended to avoid last-minute stress.
Don’t miss the company’s signature blend of innovative choreography and world-class dancers. The annual fall production of The Nutcracker stands out with its fusion of tradition and modernity, featuring elaborate sets and costumes. Pre-show lectures offer insight into the creative process, while post-show dancer meet-and-greets provide personal connections. The theater’s official boutique also sells exclusive merchandise and limited-edition posters—perfect souvenirs for ballet lovers.
Near Davies Symphony Hall, you’ll find a vibrant arts district including the San Francisco Opera House and the San Francisco Symphony headquarters. A 10-minute walk leads to the de Young Museum, showcasing Native American art and contemporary works. Nearby Union Square Park features sculptures and historic architecture. Together, these sites create an immersive cultural experience, allowing art enthusiasts to extend their journey beyond the ballet stage.
After the show, head to North Beach, known as San Francisco’s "Little Italy," where you’ll find cozy bars and jazz clubs with a rich artistic vibe. Caffe Trieste transforms into a live jazz venue in the evening, offering intimate performances. Along Grant Avenue, independent restaurants and lounges provide excellent dining and cocktail options, perfect for extending your cultural night with a touch of romance and local flavor.
The San Francisco Ballet season runs from September through May, featuring major productions like The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, and original works. The annual December Nutcracker is a highlight, often selling out weeks in advance. Performances are primarily on weekends, with select weekday shows. Check the official website for schedules and book tickets early to secure prime seats and ensure a seamless experience.
See what other travelers say about San Francisco Ballet

Staying at the Fairmont San Francisco was an exceptional experience. While the hotel doesn't have the ultra-modern flair of newer properties, its timeless elegance and impeccable upkeep truly shine through. The rooms were spotless, well-maintained, and exuded a sense of quiet luxury. What stood out most was the consistently high standard in service, cleanliness, and location—everything felt thoughtfully curated. For the price, the level of attention to detail and guest comfort was outstanding. It’s rare to find such a well-rounded, reliable experience, and I’ll definitely be returning on my next visit to San Francisco. Highly recommend for anyone seeking genuine quality and value.

I've visited San Francisco multiple times over the years and stayed at several upscale hotels, but this one truly stands out as the best experience I've had in the city. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Ghirardelli Square, steps away from great dining, shopping, and iconic sights. The room was spacious, beautifully designed, and impeccably clean. Staff went above and beyond to make my stay memorable with genuine hospitality. From the moment I arrived to the time I left, everything felt seamless and luxurious. This isn't just a hotel—it's an experience. I'll definitely be returning and highly recommend it to anyone visiting San Francisco.

Staying at Hotel Stratford San Francisco - Handwritten Collection was an absolute delight. The location couldn't be better—it's right in the heart of Union Square, surrounded by public transit options that make getting to any part of the city a breeze. Whether you're heading to Fisherman's Wharf, Golden Gate Bridge, or downtown shopping areas, everything is just a short ride away. Bonus: there's a Pop Mart store right outside the hotel where you can catch the latest Labubu figures—perfect for collectors or anyone who loves cute merch. It’s such a fun little detail that adds charm to the stay. With its unbeatable convenience and cozy vibe, this hotel offers excellent value and makes exploring San Francisco effortless and enjoyable.

The Lombard Inn is a solid choice if you're looking for a no-frills stay in San Francisco. The rooms are clean and the beds are surprisingly comfortable—perfect for a good night's rest. While the decor and furnishings feel a bit dated, they’re still functional and adequately maintained. One thing worth mentioning is that the hallways had a slight musty odor, likely due to the carpets needing a deep clean. That said, it’s an easy fix and doesn’t detract much from the overall experience. I’d recommend this hotel for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience over modern design. It’s a reliable option with great value, especially if you're on a budget.

We stayed in Glasgow for a few days and stopped by this hotel for breakfast—had no expectations going in, but was pleasantly surprised. The menu options were somewhat limited, but the warm welcome and excellent service from Thomas made all the difference. He went above and beyond to make our morning special. It’s a hidden gem with a welcoming vibe, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone passing through.

On Friday, April 21st at 10:15 AM, a guest from another building at the hotel climbed over the fence between units 179 and 173, entered our private driveway area, then climbed over our fence and left toward Wiese Street, heading toward 16th Street. We immediately called 911. The situation was alarming and unsettling. While police responded promptly, the incident raised serious concerns about property security and safety protocols. It's important to note that making assumptions based on someone's background is not only inappropriate but also harmful. As guests, we expect the hotel to maintain a secure environment for all. We hope management will take immediate action to improve fencing, surveillance, and overall safety measures to prevent future incidents.
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