Union Square: San Francisco's Vibrant Heart
Experience the vibrant heart of San Francisco at Union Square: a historic plaza surrounded by world-class shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, easily accessible and always buzzing with activity.
Union Square, a 2.6-acre plaza in the heart of San Francisco, is a vibrant hub for shopping, theater, and cultural events. Named for pro-Union rallies held before and during the Civil War, it has evolved from sand dunes to a bustling destination. Today, it's surrounded by major department stores, luxury boutiques, hotels, and theaters, making it a must-visit for tourists. The square itself hosts numerous events, from floral displays to holiday celebrations, and is easily accessible via public transportation. With its central location and lively atmosphere, Union Square offers a quintessential San Francisco experience, blending history, culture, and modern urban life. Don't miss the Dewey Monument, a towering statue commemorating Admiral George Dewey's victory in the Spanish-American War, standing proudly at the square's center.
A brief summary to Union Square
- San Francisco, Union Square, California, 94108, US
- +1415-781-7880
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the annual Macy's Flower Show for breathtaking floral displays that transform Union Square into a vibrant garden.
- Take advantage of the Union Square/Market Street Station for easy access to other parts of the city via the Central Subway, BART, and Muni Metro.
- Check the event calendar for free concerts, art shows, and seasonal celebrations that often take place in the square.
- Explore the area on foot to discover hidden gems, such as smaller boutiques and cafes, tucked away on side streets.
- Consider booking parking in advance through SpotHero to secure a spot and save money, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Getting There
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Public Transport
For the final approach to Union Square using public transport, the Powell Street or Union Square/Market Street stations are the most convenient. From Powell Street Station (BART or Muni), exit onto Market Street and walk north towards Geary Street. Union Square will be a few blocks ahead. Alternatively, the Union Square/Market Street Station (Muni's Central Subway) places you directly within a short underground concourse walk to Union Square. A single ride on BART or Muni costs approximately $2-$3, depending on the distance traveled. Clipper cards are accepted on both systems.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
If arriving by taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft), instruct your driver to drop you off at the corner of Geary and Powell Streets, or on Post Street near the square. This will place you right at the edge of Union Square. A short ride from Fisherman's Wharf or other downtown locations typically costs $15-$20, depending on traffic.
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Driving
For those driving, several parking garages are located in and around Union Square. The Union Square Garage is directly beneath the square, with entrances on Geary and Post Streets. Other nearby garages include the Sutter-Stockton Garage and the Ellis-O'Farrell Garage. Hourly parking rates typically range from $5-$8, with daily maximums around $40-$50. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak shopping hours and event times. Consider using a parking app like SpotHero to reserve a space in advance.
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Walking
If you are already in the downtown area, walking to Union Square is a straightforward option. From Market Street, walk north towards Geary Street. From the Financial District, head west along Post Street. Union Square is easily identifiable by the Dewey Monument and the surrounding department stores and hotels. Walking from nearby locations like the Moscone Center or the Embarcadero takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
Discover more about Union Square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dewey Monument
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Explore the Dewey Monument in Union Square, a historical sculpture honoring valor and offering a vibrant backdrop to San Francisco's bustling city life.
Monument to American Squadron, Manila Bay
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A historic landmark in Union Square, San Francisco, commemorating Admiral Dewey's victory at Manila Bay and offering a glimpse into a pivotal moment in American and Philippine history.
Powell St & Geary St
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Discover the vibrant intersection of Powell and Geary in San Francisco, a hub for shopping, dining, and urban culture.
San Francisco Ghosts
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Frank Lloyd Wright Spiral Interior
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Discover the stunning Frank Lloyd Wright Spiral Interior in San Francisco—a historical landmark showcasing architectural innovation and artistic beauty.
450 Sutter Street
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Explore the historic charm of 450 Sutter Street, a stunning architectural gem in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Union Square, surrounded by shopping and dining.
Phelan Building
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Discover the historic Phelan Building in San Francisco's Union Square, a stunning architectural masterpiece steeped in rich culture and history.
Stockton Street Tunnel (1914)
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Experience a historic passage connecting Union Square and Chinatown, a testament to San Francisco's engineering and cultural diversity, offering a unique journey beneath Nob Hill.
Flood Building
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Experience San Francisco history at the Flood Building, a Beaux-Arts landmark in Union Square, offering stunning architecture and a glimpse into the city's vibrant past.
The Samuels Clock
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A historic San Francisco landmark on Market Street, the Samuels Clock has stood since 1915, witnessing the city's evolution and embodying its enduring spirit.
Cable Car Turnaround Powell St.
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Discover the iconic Cable Car Turnaround at Powell Street, a historical landmark that showcases San Francisco's rich transportation heritage and vibrant urban culture.
Old Chronicle building (Historical Landmark)
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Discover the historic Old Chronicle Building in San Francisco's Union Square, a beautiful landmark symbolizing resilience and architectural elegance.
California Theatre
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Belden Place
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Hallidie Building
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A pioneering architectural marvel in San Francisco's Financial District, the Hallidie Building showcases a revolutionary glass curtain wall design from 1918, honoring cable car inventor Andrew Smith Hallidie.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hearts of San Francico Art Sculpture
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Explore the vibrant Hearts of San Francisco Art Sculpture in Union Square, a captivating tribute to the city's creativity and love.
Heart of San Francisco Series
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Experience the energy of San Francisco at the Heart of SF: Union Square, a vibrant hub for shopping, culture, and unforgettable city moments.
Painted Ladies Tour Company
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American Conservatory Theater
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Experience the best of live theater at the American Conservatory Theater, a cultural landmark in San Francisco's vibrant Tenderloin district.
White Wolf Private Tours
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Angel Island Immigration Station Foundation
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Explore the rich history of immigration in America at the Angel Island Immigration Station Foundation, a pivotal site of cultural significance in San Francisco.
Tian Xia Wei Gong
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Experience tranquility and culture at Tian Xia Wei Gong, a serene gem nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown.
Chinatown Landmark
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Discover the historic gateway to San Francisco's Chinatown, the oldest and largest Chinese community in North America, rich in culture and tradition.
Dragon Gate Chinatown SF
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Lotta's Fountain
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Discover the beauty and history of Lotta's Fountain, a charming landmark in San Francisco's Union Square, perfect for a leisurely visit.
Sister Cities of San Francisco Sign
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A colorful landmark in Union Square celebrating San Francisco's global connections and international friendships.
Joice Street Steps
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The Haunt SF Ghost Tours
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The Escape Game San Francisco (Downtown)
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Essential places to dine
The Rotunda
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Experience upscale American dining at The Rotunda in San Francisco's Union Square with stunning views and an exquisite menu.
Sears Fine Food
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Experience the best of American comfort food and authentic Swedish cuisine at Sears Fine Food in San Francisco's vibrant Union Square.
Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar
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Experience the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar in Union Square, San Francisco - where every meal is a celebration.
ONE65 San Francisco
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Experience the best of French cuisine at ONE65 in San Francisco's Union Square – a delightful blend of fine dining and charming bistro atmosphere.
E&O Kitchen and Bar
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Experience the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia at E&O Kitchen and Bar in San Francisco's Union Square – where tradition meets innovation.
Bouche
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Discover the essence of French fine dining at Bouche in San Francisco—where culinary artistry meets elegant ambiance.
Roxanne Cafe
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Discover delicious American comfort food at Roxanne Cafe in San Francisco's Union Square—where every meal is a delightful experience.
Restaurant Jeanne D'Arc
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Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant Jeanne D'Arc in San Francisco's Union Square - where every dish tells a story.
Cesario's
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Sons & Daughters
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Discover fine dining at Sons & Daughters in Nob Hill, San Francisco - where Californian cuisine meets elegance.
MKT Restaurant and Bar
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Discover the culinary delights at MKT Restaurant and Bar in San Francisco—where New American cuisine meets sophisticated dining.
Café de la Presse
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Discover authentic French cuisine at Café de la Presse in San Francisco's Union Square - your cozy bistro for brunch, lunch, and delightful desserts.
Kin Khao
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Experience authentic Thai flavors at Kin Khao in San Francisco's Union Square – where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Liholiho Yacht Club
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Mister Jiu's
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cuyana
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Explore Cuyana in San Francisco's Union Square: where elegance meets sustainability in women's fashion.
Saks Fifth Avenue
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Discover the ultimate luxury shopping experience at Saks Fifth Avenue in San Francisco's Union Square, featuring top designer brands and exquisite accessories.
Louis Vuitton San Francisco Union Square
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Gift Shop
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Maison Margiela San Francisco
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Experience the cutting-edge of fashion at Maison Margiela San Francisco, where luxury meets artistic expression in an unforgettable shopping experience.
Hermes San Francisco Store
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Discover unparalleled luxury at Hermes San Francisco, where elegant leather goods and fashion accessories await in the heart of Union Square.
DIOR San Francisco Post Street
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Secret Shop
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Urban Outfitters
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Angelic Pretty San Francisco
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Butterfly's Gift Shop Inc
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Fashion House & Gifts
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China Station
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Oriental Treasures San Francisco
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Old Shanghai
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Clock Bar
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Johnny Foley's Irish House
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Last Drop Tavern
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Pacific Cocktail Haven
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Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar
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Iron Horse Cocktails
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere and innovative cocktails at Iron Horse Cocktails in San Francisco's lively Union Square.
Harlan Records
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Discover Harlan Records, the ultimate cocktail bar in San Francisco's Union Square, where exquisite drinks meet an unforgettable vinyl experience.
Persona
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Owl Tree
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Local Edition
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Cityscape
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cityscape, where stunning views and craft cocktails create an unforgettable bar experience in San Francisco.
Rickhouse
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Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of San Francisco at Rickhouse, where craft meets creativity in a chic bar ambiance.
718
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Discover the unique flavors and vibrant atmosphere at 718 Lounge in San Francisco's historic Chinatown, where craft cocktails and Asian cuisine meet.
Bourbon & Branch
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The House Of Shields
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