Union Square, San Francisco: Hours, Address, Union Square Reviews: 4/5
Union Square
Union Square
4
9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Monday
9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Friday
9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
About
A shopper's paradise, this bustling square near the theater district has everything from upscale department stores and boutiques to discount houses. After a $25-million facelift in 2002, the cosmopolitan hub boasts a huge amphitheater, granite pedestals on which street entertainers perform and a tree and flower-lined environment in which to enjoy an espresso or an elegant meal.
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: Union Square
Originally home to rallies supporting the Union Army in the Civil War, this grand square has become the city's premier shopping and entertainment district containing the largest number of upscale department stores, chic boutiques, art galleries and theaters in the city. It's a large open area where tourists and locals gather, watch cable cars and crowds go by, enjoy a snack, or plan their day of shopping and sightseeing, If feeling the pulsating energy of the city is on your agenda, Union Square is the place to soak it in.
How to get there
- Powell St • 5 min walk
- Powell St • 5 min walk
Best nearby
Restaurants
4,295 within 3 miles

Fino Bar & Ristorante
1,555
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Italian • Vegetarian Friendly • Vegan Options

Tacorea
170
0.2 mi$ • Quick Bites • Mexican • Latin

Taylor Street Coffee Shop
1,360
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Cafe • Contemporary

Eno Wine Bar
374
340 ft$$ - $$$ • Wine Bar

Akiko's Sushi Bar and Restaurant
509
0.1 mi$$ - $$$ • Japanese • Seafood • Sushi

Bouche
430
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • French • European • Vegetarian Friendly

Lapisara Eatery
218
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Asian • Thai • Vegetarian Friendly

Super Duper Burgers
1,688
0.2 mi$ • Quick Bites • American • Fast Food

Ryoko's Japanese Restaurant & Bar
704
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Japanese • Sushi • Asian

Taj Campton Place
361
477 ft$$$$ • American • Indian • International
Attractions
796 within 6 miles

Holiday Ice Rink In Union Square
33
84 ftPoints of Interest & Landmarks

TIX Bay Area
15
110 ftTheaters

San Francisco Playhouse
303
455 ftTheaters

Macy’s Union Square
99
209 ftDepartment Stores

Westin St. Francis (hotel)
35
220 ftPoints of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings

Saks Fifth Avenue
57
269 ftDepartment Stores

Neiman-Marcus
50
383 ftDepartment Stores

Martin Lawrence Galleries
12
501 ftArt Galleries

Square hearts
9
448 ftMonuments & Statues

Custom Made Theatre
7
512 ftTheaters
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
2,141 reviews
Excellent
677
Very good
952
Average
395
Poor
77
Terrible
40
Ruhungrytientien
San Francisco, CA25 contributions
Solo
It’s a must see place in downtown San Francisco. This is where sightseeing, shopping begins. It’s big open area where you can enjoy the soaking of sunshine, watch people come and go or just grab a cup coffee sit down and relax. It’s has biggest and bests department stores like Macy, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, flagship Bloomington in the near by Westfield San Francisco Center, 9 stories with 200 shops. Great for shopping. It’s buzzing & centrally located near Chinatown, Yerba Buena Garden, SFMOMA, Theaters and where 2 lines of Cable Cars begins (Powell Mason & Powell Hyde lines) just around the corners. On the corner of 4th Ave and Market, you will hear great street band playing. Union square is also a transit hub, where you can catch Bart, MUNi, street car and cable cars all within 2 blocks. If you are planning to visit San Francisco, make Union Square your first destination this is where fun begins
ruhungrytientien
ruhungrytientien
Written November 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mariam A
British Columbia, Canada21 contributions
I couldn't understand what the high prices were of the hotels around Union Square, thinking it was a must see while in San Fran but to my disappointment, it was crowded, filthy, and had negative aura all around the area. I walked around San Fran close to the bridge and the market, now that was something to see. I really enjoyed the walk, the energy, and learning the history of the area. I highly recommend a hotel or Band B away from the crowd, then you can Uber or walk to where you wanna go to explore.
Written March 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Munir D
Toronto, Canada609 contributions
Couples
We stayed at the Hilton Hotel which was a walking distance from the Union Square. This is a good area with many department stores like Macy’s, restaurants and theatres. The park is resplendent with palm and yew trees, flowers and stone benches.
One often sights flower vendors here along with street artists and musicians. There also are a lot of pigeons.
There are a lot of homeless people in the area. It’s best to overlook them or assist them in a small way if they are not on drugs.
Munir D.
One often sights flower vendors here along with street artists and musicians. There also are a lot of pigeons.
There are a lot of homeless people in the area. It’s best to overlook them or assist them in a small way if they are not on drugs.
Munir D.
Written August 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
sharrongeg
Henderson, NV2,799 contributions
Whenever we visit The City, we end up on Union Square looking at the seasonal decorations. This year we chose to arrange to meet family here and it was a piece of cake. “Meet at the Christmas Tree in Union Square”
This year they had a small ice skating rink set up with holiday music playing over the speakers.
This year they had a small ice skating rink set up with holiday music playing over the speakers.
Written January 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Arun K
Nagpur District, India2,895 contributions
Couples
Union Square is a public plaza in the down town of SF , surrounded by the plaza of several blocks & is referred as centre for shopping, eateries & theatres .
Generally a very safe area for tourist to visit & spend positive time , as it is in the neighbourhood with abundant retail therapy, not to mention the fine hotels, great meals and green space to sit outside & enjoy San Francisco’s pleasant climate .
A public place with great environment !
Generally a very safe area for tourist to visit & spend positive time , as it is in the neighbourhood with abundant retail therapy, not to mention the fine hotels, great meals and green space to sit outside & enjoy San Francisco’s pleasant climate .
A public place with great environment !
Written July 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
AndreaUbok
Florida2,707 contributions
Couples
An attractive public space in the middle of an upscale shopping district With lots of comfortable spaces to sit and talk. Coffee shop, florist, ort display, musical performance & beautiful foliage.
After hours it began to get a little seedy With beggars, people screaming and cursing and others on microphones yelling about Jesus.
After hours it began to get a little seedy With beggars, people screaming and cursing and others on microphones yelling about Jesus.
Written June 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
VIPIN_GOEL_TP_Impex
New Delhi, India6,068 contributions
We went there few days before Christmas to see the big Christmas tree and enjoy the festivity. We took some pictures there, walked around in the crowd. Read the history of Union Square written there on a big pillar mentioning The Battle of Manila Bay and the Philippine American War. The skating rink was attracting lots of visitors. One can visit Macy store which has quite big collection. Car parking is just below the site.
Written March 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
GlobeTrotterChicago
Palos Park, IL202 contributions
Friends
Union Square is San Francisco’s high-end shopping area. My niece and I made a point of going over, since it gets great reviews. If you’re from NYC or Chicago and short on time, don’t bother. Been there done that on a grander scale. From anywhere else, give it a look and stop at the Cheesecake Factory for some cheesecake at their rooftop restaurant.
Written June 13, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Scott
San Francisco, CA4,944 contributions
Solo
Union square is the center point for San Francisco's theater and shopping district. It's a great place to come if you just want to people-watch. The vagrant to non vagrant ratio is in favor of non vagrants here. although some of the craziest of San Francisco's crazies do make their way to Union square.
Union square is where San Francisco's Christmas tree stands. It's also a place where folks frequently execute their freedom of speech with protests and rallies.
There is a lot of history in Union square. almost every movie set in San Francisco has at least one scene in Union square. For locals and tourists alike, Google movies in Union square while standing in the square.
Union square is where San Francisco's Christmas tree stands. It's also a place where folks frequently execute their freedom of speech with protests and rallies.
There is a lot of history in Union square. almost every movie set in San Francisco has at least one scene in Union square. For locals and tourists alike, Google movies in Union square while standing in the square.
Written August 28, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Traveleator
Singapore, Singapore1,209 contributions
Union Square is the city center which has quite a lot of good shopping options. There are many hotels and restaurants in the vicinity. I didn't see as many homeless people as I had feared (most of them were along Market). The square isn't a beautiful sight to behold. Just a nice place to watch people go by either living their lives or vacationing like you and I. Chinatown isn't too far and deserves a visit.
Written February 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Menna K
Cairo, Egypt
Im staying in down town SF, what is the best outlet to go to? And what in the city is worth visiting or doing?
Fahad A
Karachi, Pakistan23 contributions
If u are staying at Union Square you can visit Macys Store it right in the middle and you can get everything under one roof, take a Hop on and Hop off Bus right from union square, its worth taking that cause u can see everything which my friends has listed in the above answers, the most amazing part of the hop on hop off is the Golden Gate Bridge u cant afford to miss that attractions San Francisco trip is incomplete without visiting that
86Susana2015
San Miguel de Tucuman, Argentina3 contributions
Quisiera saber si es bueno el hotel Cartwright de la calle Sutter al 500 en San Francisco
Mona123a
Edmonton, Canada519 contributions
Can someone give me the name of some fancy coffee shops in union square or around harbour court hotel. Thank you
natashaangeline
Canmore, Canada81 contributions
All of the American coffee shops are not coffee made “premiumly” as it may say in the window. Half of these places don’t even know how to use their machines properly. I come from a coffee industry background.
Tanya212018
Windsor, Canada39 contributions
I'm coming to San Franscisco September 11-13 I have been searching for a hotel . Too many to look at ( getting overwhelmed) . Any suggestions , clean not too expensive in a good area.. Thanks, Tanya. Union square...area??? I think , but doesn't have to be.What do you think of Nob Hill, any hotels worth looking at there?
Andrew Goh
Singapore, Singapore6,423 contributions
Sfo hotels are not cheap unless you stay far out. Union square is a good choice and convenience . They few boutique and smaller hotel .. try Nikko or Parc55.
Rogerio Marks
Porto Alegre, RS72 contributions
Olá, sabe se a praça ainda está em obras atualmente ou no período que vc esteve lá? Muito obrigado.
fredyt3
Los Angeles, CA1,367 contributions
sí, la construcción continúa, sin embargo, según sus necesidades, las tiendas y el tráfico están abiertos. También quizás puedas traducir esto al español, pero te da noticias / actualizaciones y contacto con respecto a Union Square. Espero que esto ayude
Flgirlja
Casselberry, FL206 contributions
Grant hotel
Going to San Francisco for first time in may
On tight budget as this is our first leg of road trip to la
Looking at grant hotel there are so many mixed reviews
Safety is important and also we want to be in a good place to get transport to the. Golden Gate Bridge fishermen wharf and other landmarks beaches and sites
Just the two of us no children
We will be in town 2 days then renting car and heading to Monterey/Carmel
John T
Balclutha, New Zealand168 contributions
Your in a good spot there for Fisherman’s Wharf. You will need to walk to the bottom of the hill to get on the cable car but it’s only a few blocks from union square.
Security is important in San Francisco as there are strange people everywhere. Suggest if you have a wallet put it in your front pocket to avoid pick pockets and try to blend in like a local. It’s not too bad there but you will see a lot of strange people.
Fisherman’s Wharf is amazing and you can get a cruise on the harbour from there. Enjoy.
MariaGJS
Humboldt County, CA20 contributions
Are there any moderately priced cafes or bars that you recommend? Thank you
FormerCaliBoy
Zurich, Switzerland19,612 contributions
Hello MariaGJS,
I would suggest Sear's Fine Foods, it's an institution for good home cooked meals loved by locals and tourists alike. Also, known for their stack of small Swedish pancakes, but their other breakfast items are very hearty.
As for bars:
If you like craft beers, my top two suggestions would be Mikkeller Bar on Mason St. and The Golden Gate Tap Room on Powell. Mikkeller has a more neighborhood feel to the place and they also serve food, while The Golden Gate Tap Room is very inconspicuous from the outside, but inside it's a very large, lively space with a variety of games and a very, very impressive selection of craft beers. Both places have fun staff and you are sure to have a good time.
(FYI: Bring your state ID/Drivers License or passport as official ID's will be checked at the door).
Denise T
2 contributions
We are staying at the Marker on Geary St. is this hotel in a safe area?
Jencheltenham
Cheltenham, UK1,816 contributions
I think you just need to be sensible and careful especially if you are walking around alone
Jeff35805
Chicago, IL8 contributions
Any suggestions on good eats in or around union square?
RenanFerreira
Curitiba, PR352 contributions
I ate some nice pizza, but there are some fancy restaurants indide the hotels that tou would like
I'd like to rent a car?
Jesalee
Pacific Grove, California103 contributions
Depending on what part of SF you want to stay in. If you stay in Union Square area - Do not rent a car. It is a liability. With the one way streets, traffic and cost of parking it is a nightmare. If you want to explore other areas of SF a car is very helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions about Union Square
- Union Square is open:
- Sun - Sat 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
- We recommend booking Union Square tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 37 Union Square tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Union Square:
- Big Bus San Francisco Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Tour (From $53.10)
- San Francisco Love Tour (From $85.00)
- Night Tour: Happy Hour History of SF (From $85.00)
- Combo Tour: Alcatraz Island and San Francisco Grand City Tour (From $125.00)
- San Francisco Movie Sights City Tour (From $67.00)
- Hotels near Union Square:
- (0.08 mi) The Inn at Union Square
- (0.06 mi) Chancellor Hotel on Union Square
- (0.10 mi) San Francisco Marriott Union Square
- (0.08 mi) Handlery Union Square Hotel
- (0.08 mi) Kensington Park Hotel
- Restaurants near Union Square:
- (0.01 mi) Burger Bar
- (0.01 mi) Bancarella
- (0.02 mi) Asian Box
- (0.03 mi) Emporio Rulli Union Square
- (0.06 mi) Eno Wine Bar
- Attractions near Union Square:
- (0.02 mi) Bespoke Experiences
- (0.02 mi) Eatwith San Francisco
- (0.02 mi) Holiday Ice Rink In Union Square
- (0.02 mi) San Francisco En Francais
- (0.02 mi) TIX Bay Area