The Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego is unveiling a festive experience this holiday season with its “Tinsel Trail to Oz.” Running from November 21, 2025, to January 1, 2026, this free, self-guided tour invites guests to explore a whimsical Yellow Brick Road adorned with themed Christmas trees that pay homage to the hotel’s historical connection to the classic Oz narratives.
The Hotel Del Coronado has long been a staple of local history, but its ties to L. Frank Baum, the author of “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” are particularly noteworthy. Baum, who spent winters at the hotel with his wife, Maud, and her mother, Matilda Joslyn Gage, drew inspiration from the serene shores of Coronado while crafting the Oz universe. Gage, a prominent suffragist, served as a model for Glinda the Good, one of Baum’s beloved characters.
As guests wander down the Tinsel Trail, they will encounter various stops that celebrate Baum’s legacy. Among the highlights is “The Road to Oz” Tree, a two-story spectacle featuring an impressive **10,000 lights** and **2,000 ornaments**. Another key attraction is “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” Tree, located next to the hotel’s beachfront ice-skating rink, creating a picturesque holiday scene.
The hotel is also transforming its Garden Courtyard into a captivating space where visitors can stroll along the Yellow Brick Road. Here, they will be greeted by four twelve-foot Christmas trees, each showcasing the enchanting styles reminiscent of the magical world of Oz. Guests are encouraged to enjoy festive drinks while engaging with characters that evoke the spirit of the story.
The event is open to the public daily, with the exception of the trees in the Crown & Coronet Rooms. Specific closures will occur on certain days in December when the Gardens are not accessible. For a complete schedule of availability, visitors can check the Hotel Del Coronado’s website.
This holiday celebration not only enriches the festive season but also deepens the connection between the hotel and the iconic tales of Oz. As families gather to experience the magic, they will also discover the historical significance of the location and its role in shaping one of the most beloved stories in American literature.
