Civic Center Plaza: San Francisco's Central Gathering Place
Experience the heart of San Francisco at Civic Center Plaza, a historic landmark surrounded by iconic cultural and government institutions.
Civic Center Plaza, located in the heart of San Francisco, is a 4.53-acre public space surrounded by prominent civic and cultural institutions. This plaza serves as a central gathering place for events, protests, and everyday leisure, offering tree-lined paths, a cafe, and a playground.
A brief summary to Civic Center Plaza
- 335 McAllister St, San Francisco, Civic Center, California, 94102, US
- +1415-831-5500
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the event calendar for festivals, concerts, and community events happening at the plaza.
- Visit the Heart of the City Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Sundays for fresh produce and local goods.
- Enjoy a picnic on the lawn or relax by the pathways lined with London plane trees.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Civic Center Plaza is easily accessible via public transportation. The Civic Center/UN Plaza BART and Muni Metro station is located a short walk away. Several Muni bus lines also stop near the plaza. A single ride on Muni costs $3, while BART fares vary depending on the distance traveled. Check the 511.org website for detailed transit information.
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Walking
From the Powell Street BART station, walk southwest on Market Street towards 7th Street. Turn right onto 7th Street, then turn left onto McAllister Street. Continue for two blocks, and the Civic Center Plaza will be on your left. The walk is approximately 0.5 miles and takes about 10 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Francisco. A short ride from Union Square to Civic Center Plaza typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand.
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Parking
While Civic Center Plaza does not have on-site parking, the Civic Center Garage is located nearby at 355 McAllister Street. Hourly rates range from $3 - $4 per hour, with daily maximums around $30. Be aware that the Civic Center Garage may be unavailable during special events. Several other parking lots are available in the vicinity, with varying rates.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Abraham Lincoln
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San Francisco City Hall
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United Nations Plaza Fountain
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The Shortest Street in San Francisco
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Rothschild House
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Sarcophagus of Thomas Starr King
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The San Francisco Mint
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Cable Car Turnaround Powell St.
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California Historical Landmark 454: Site of Woodward's Gardens
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Flood Building
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The Samuels Clock
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Powell St & Geary St
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Nob Hill
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Bush Street Temple (Soto Mission)
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Dewey Monument
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Unmissable attractions to see
49-Mile Scenic Drive
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Heart of the City Farmers' Market
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Asian Art Museum
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War Memorial Opera House
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Orpheum Theatre
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Civic Center
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Davies Symphony Hall
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Saint Boniface Catholic Church
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Tenderloin Museum
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Sidewalk Food Tours of San Francisco
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Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption
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Essential places to dine
Brenda's French Soul Food
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Son and Garden
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Kiln
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Absinthe Brasserie & Bar
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Monsieur Benjamin
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Chez Maman West
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Nightbird
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a Mano
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Birdsong
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AsiaSF
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Rich Table
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Suppenküche
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Petit Crenn
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1601 Bar & Kitchen
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Kin Khao
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cha May Ching Museum Boutique
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Polk market&gift shop
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New Horizons gift shop
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minimal
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Reliquary
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Metier
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Urban Outfitters
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Gift Shop
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Cuyana
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Cali Gifts & More
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Louis Vuitton San Francisco Union Square
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Secret Shop
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Saks Fifth Avenue
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COVE
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Maison Margiela San Francisco
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Bourbon & Branch
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Rye Cocktail Bar
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Sluts the wine bar
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Cityscape
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Owl Tree
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Johnny Foley's Irish House
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The Majestic Butterfly Lounge
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Persona
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Clock Bar
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Dahlia SF
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Pacific Cocktail Haven
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Kozy Kar
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Last Drop Tavern
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Noc Noc
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