Union Square in San Francisco

What are the highlights of Union Square?

Union Square is a large shopping district, so it's a good idea to orientate yourself to avoid missing out on the best things the area has to offer. Stand in the center of the Square, near the 85-ft-tall Dewey Monument, a memorial dedicated to Admiral George Dewey. At the top is a statue of Nike, the ancient Greek Goddess of Victory. With Macy's department store in front of you, the theater/art gallery district is on the right, and the waterfront and Maiden Lane on the left.  

Maiden Lane is one of the area's most famous shopping streets. The 2-block lane is lined with art galleries and small restaurants, as well as luxury retailers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, and Gucci. Plan to visit between 11 am and 6 pm when the street is only for pedestrians. This is also a fantastic time to grab a seat at one of the cafes with outdoor tables for a pleasant lunch and people-watching experience. 

Where to shop in Union Square?

Union Square is a retail lover's dream. Serious shopaholics and window-shoppers can easily spend the entire day exploring the streets and alleyways branching off from the plaza. On the periphery of the Square are long-standing stores such as Tiffany's, Macy's, Louis Vuitton, Apple, and Sak's Fifth Avenue. If you walk 3 blocks south, you'll reach the Westfield San Francisco Center that houses upscale brands such as Banana Republic, Bloomingdale's, and Nordstrom. The mall's spiral escalators are worth a visit alone.

Shopping aside, you can watch a play at one of San Francisco's acclaimed theaters, including the American Conservatory Theater and Curran Theaters. During summer, you can enjoy free, live entertainment at the Union Square Live festival. And every year on the day after Thanksgiving, Union Square kicks off the vacation season with the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Good to know about Union Square

You don't need to dig deep into your pockets to enjoy Union Square. Pack a picnic-style lunch and sit on one of the benches in the plaza. People-watch or take selfies with the enormous heart-shaped public art installation sculptures on display. They’re part of a fundraising campaign for a local hospital. 

A 10-minute walk from Union Square is one of San Francisco's oldest and most celebrated hotels, the Palace Hotel. Make a quick side trip to marvel at their spectacular lobby with vintage gold chandeliers hanging from vaulted ceilings. Or have an evening drink at the hotel's Pied Piper bar.

San Francisco is famous for its historic cable automobiles. You can hop on one at the intersection of Powell and Market and make your way to the Fisherman's Wharf. The wharf is home to Pier 39, a lively outdoor shopping complex with stunning Bay views and a colony of sea lions.