Nestled in the heart of downtown San Francisco is Union Square, a 2.6-acre public plaza that is surrounded by some of the city’s most popular attractions. Whether you are a local looking for something to do or a traveler planning to make your way through the city, Union Square is a must-see destination. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this area so special.
Union Square was built in 1850 and was initially named “Union Place” before being changed to “Union Square” in 1853. The plaza began as an outdoor market and has since become known as one of San Francisco's most visited tourist destinations. Today, it serves as the focal point for the city's theater district and its upscale shopping district, with many luxury retailers located within walking distance of the plaza itself.
The main attraction at Union Square is undoubtedly its large shopping center. Visitors can find everything from high-end designer stores like Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton to more affordable brands such as Gap and H&M. There are also many restaurants located nearby that offer both high-end cuisine as well as more affordable options like food trucks and quick service restaurants.
In addition to shopping and dining, visitors can also enjoy an array of activities such as seeing performances at the Curran Theater or visiting museums like SFMOMA or Yerba Buena Center for the Arts.
Union Square hosts several events throughout the year including concerts in October for Bay Area Music Month, tree lighting ceremonies during the holiday season, farmer's markets throughout summer months, art shows in April for International Art Expo SF, and much more!
As one of San Francisco's most popular tourist destinations, Union Square has something for everyone! Whether you're looking for high-end fashion or an afternoon spent exploring museums and art galleries, you'll find what you're looking for here!