Civic Center Plaza: San Francisco's Central Gathering Place
A historic plaza in the heart of San Francisco, hosting events, offering green space, and connecting major civic institutions.
Civic Center Plaza, a 4.53-acre public space in the heart of San Francisco, is a hub of civic and cultural activity. Flanked by City Hall, the Public Library, and the Asian Art Museum, the plaza offers tree-lined paths, a cafe, and a playground, serving as a venue for events, protests, and everyday relaxation.
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 other activities happening at the plaza.
- Enjoy a picnic on the lawn or relax by the fountains.
- Visit the nearby City Hall, Public Library, and Asian Art Museum.
- Take public transportation, as parking can be limited and expensive.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Civic Center Plaza is easily accessible via public transportation. The Civic Center/UN Plaza station is served by BART and Muni Metro lines. Several Muni bus lines also stop within a few blocks of the plaza. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00. BART fares vary depending on the distance traveled.
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Walking
From the Powell Street BART station, walk southwest on Market Street, then turn left onto McAllister Street. The plaza will be on your left. The walk is approximately 0.5 miles and should take about 10-15 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 $15-25, depending on traffic and demand.
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Parking
If driving, parking is available at the Civic Center Garage (355 McAllister Street) and Performing Arts Garage (360 Grove Street). Hourly rates at these garages typically range from $4 to $8. Several private parking lots are also located in the area, with varying rates. Be aware that parking can be limited and expensive, especially during events.
Discover more about Civic Center Plaza
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Abraham Lincoln
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San Francisco City Hall
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Pioneer Monument
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Film exchange
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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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Victorian Home Walk
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Powell St & Geary St
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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
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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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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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Sluts the wine bar
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Cityscape
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Johnny Foley's Irish House
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The Majestic Butterfly Lounge
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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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