🛍️ Union Square | Walking Tour of San Francisco in a Day

Audio Guide San Francisco | Walking Tour of San Francisco in a Day

🛍️ Union Square, San Francisco

Union Square is the vibrant heart of San Francisco’s shopping, dining, and entertainment scene. Famous for its high-end retail stores, luxury hotels, art galleries, and bustling holiday events, Union Square is a must-visit for both tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re here to shop, dine, or simply people-watch, Union Square’s lively atmosphere offers something for everyone. Let’s explore this iconic destination! 🌆👜

1. Google Maps Link 📍

Union Square on Google Maps

2. Nearby Subway Station 🚆

The closest subway station to Union Square is Powell Street BART/MUNI Station. From there, it’s just a 2-minute walk to the heart of Union Square. You can also take the Muni 38 Geary or Muni 2 Clement buses, which stop nearby. 🚇

3. Places to Eat & Drink Nearby 🍽️🍷

Union Square is surrounded by some of San Francisco’s best dining options, from casual cafés to fine dining establishments. Here are some top spots to try:

• The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus (150 Stockton St) – For a luxurious dining experience with stunning views of Union Square, head to The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus. It’s known for its elegant afternoon tea and classic American dishes. 🥂🍽️
• Tacorea (809 Bush St) – A casual spot offering a delicious fusion of Korean and Mexican cuisine. Try their Korean BBQ tacos or burritos for a quick, flavorful bite. 🌮🍖
• Farallon (450 Post St) – Just steps from Union Square, this upscale seafood restaurant features an underwater-themed dining room and serves fresh seafood dishes like oysters, lobster, and sea bass. 🦞🐟
• Lori’s Diner (500 Sutter St) – A retro-style 1950s diner just a block away from Union Square, perfect for a classic American meal. Enjoy burgers, milkshakes, and all-day breakfast in a fun, nostalgic setting. 🍔🥤
• Café de la Presse (352 Grant Ave) – A charming French café located just a short walk from Union Square. Stop by for a croissant and coffee in the morning or enjoy a traditional French meal for lunch or dinner. 🥐☕
• Boudin Bakery Café (845 Market St, Westfield San Francisco Centre) – Known for their famous sourdough bread, Boudin offers soups, sandwiches, and salads. It’s a great spot for a casual meal while exploring the area. 🍞🥣

4. Best Photo Spots 📸

• Union Square Plaza – The open plaza in the center of Union Square is perfect for photos, especially with the towering Dewey Monument (topped by a statue of Victory) as a backdrop. During the holidays, the area is beautifully decorated with lights and a giant Christmas tree. 🎄📸
• The Westin St. Francis Glass Elevators – For a unique view of Union Square, take a ride up the glass elevators at The Westin St. Francis Hotel. The elevators offer panoramic views of the city, and it’s a fun (and free!) way to capture some stunning shots. 🎥🌆
• Maiden Lane – Just off Union Square, Maiden Lane is a charming, pedestrian-only street lined with boutique shops and cafés. It’s a great spot for a quieter photo, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. 🏙️📷
• Rooftop Bars – Several hotels around Union Square have rooftop bars with sweeping views of the city. Check out Cityscape Lounge at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square or The View Lounge at the Marriott Marquis for breathtaking photos of the skyline. 🍸🌇
• Holiday Ice Rink – During the winter months, Union Square hosts a seasonal ice skating rink. It’s a magical photo spot, especially with the holiday decorations and twinkling lights. ⛸️✨

5. Opening Times ⏰

Union Square as an outdoor space is open 24/7. However, the nearby shops, restaurants, and attractions have varying hours:

• Retail Stores: Most stores in and around Union Square, including Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, and Saks Fifth Avenue, are open from 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, though hours can vary by store and season.
• Restaurants: Most dining spots open around 11:00 AM and are open until 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
• Holiday Ice Rink: The rink operates seasonally from early November to mid-January, typically from 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM.

6. Insider Tips 🤫

• Best Time for Shopping: Union Square can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during peak holiday shopping season. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or on a weekday for a more relaxed experience. 🛍️
• Holiday Magic: If you’re visiting during the holidays, Union Square transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with a giant Christmas tree, festive lights, and a holiday ice rink. It’s one of the best times to experience the square, but be prepared for crowds! 🎄⛸️
• Free Walking Tours: The San Francisco City Guides offers free walking tours of Union Square and the surrounding area. These tours are a great way to learn about the history and architecture of the neighborhood. Tours are typically offered a few times a week. 🚶‍♀️📚
• Art Galleries: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore some of the art galleries around Union Square, showcasing everything from traditional paintings to contemporary art. Galleries like Martin Lawrence Galleries (366 Geary St) and Dennis Rae Fine Art (351 Geary St) are worth a visit. 🎨🖼️
• Public Transit & Parking: If you’re driving, Union Square has several parking garages, but they can be pricey, especially during peak hours. Consider using public transportation like BART, Muni, or cable cars to avoid the hassle of parking. 🚗🚇

7. Hidden Gem 💎

• Vesuvio Café (255 Columbus Ave) – While technically located in North Beach, this historic café is just a short walk from Union Square and is a fantastic spot for a drink. It’s known for being a popular hangout for the Beat Generation poets, including Jack Kerouac. The quirky, bohemian atmosphere and its proximity to City Lights Bookstore make it a hidden gem for literature lovers. 📚🍸
• Golden Gate Tap Room (449 Powell St) – For a laid-back experience, head to this sports bar and arcade located just steps from Union Square. It’s a great place to grab a drink, play some games, and unwind after a day of shopping. 🎮🍺

8. Public Bathrooms 🚻

• Union Square Plaza – There are public restrooms available at the Union Square Plaza, near the area where events and performances are often held.
• Shopping Centers – Many of the large department stores and shopping centers around Union Square, like Macy’s and the Westfield San Francisco Centre, have clean and easily accessible restrooms for customers.
• Restaurants and Cafés – Many of the restaurants and cafés around Union Square have restrooms available for patrons.