
Union Square
Union Square—sample rating
Lordsamp, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
About Union Square
Union Square is a centrally located plaza, distinguished by its grand monuments and a vibrant atmosphere. Named for the pro-Union demonstrations held there just before and during the Civil War, it has long been a focal point for public gatherings, protests, and celebrations. The square's focal point is the Dewey Monument, a 97-foot tall column topped with a bronze victory statue, commemorating Admiral George Dewey's victory in the Battle of Manila Bay during the Spanish-American War. The area surrounding Union Square is renowned as a premier shopping district. Visitors can explore a wide array of high-end department stores and luxury boutiques, offering everything from fashion to jewelry. Beyond shopping, the district is home to numerous art galleries, fine dining establishments, and a concentration of San Francisco's most historic and prestigious hotels. Union Square serves as a hub for both locals and tourists, providing access to diverse cultural experiences. It is a key transportation nexus, offering easy connections to various parts of the city. Throughout the year, the square itself often hosts various public art installations, contributing to its dynamic character.
Why visit
Union Square is a prime destination for shopping, dining, and experiencing the lively urban energy of San Francisco.
Best time to visit
Union Square is accessible year-round, with the surrounding shops and restaurants generally open daily.
Recommended duration
Allow about 1.5 hours (90 minutes).
Opening hours
Hours coming soon.
Check the official website for current hours.
Tickets
Free to enter — no ticket required.
Information may change — verify details before visiting.
Location
Union Square, San Francisco, CA
Load Google Maps content — this may set cookies.
Nearby attractions

Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate Strait, connecting San Francisco to Marin County.

Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island, often referred to as 'The Rock,' is a small island in San Francisco Bay, most famously known as a former federal prison.

San Francisco Botanical Garden
The San Francisco Botanical Garden is a 55-acre living museum showcasing diverse plant collections from around the world within Golden Gate Park.
Musée Mécanique
Musée Mécanique is a historic collection of coin-operated arcade games and mechanical musical instruments located on Pier 45 in San Francisco.
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park preserves and interprets the rich maritime heritage of San Francisco and the Pacific Coast.
- Ghirardelli Square
Ghirardelli Square
Ghirardelli Square is a historic landmark in San Francisco, once home to the Ghirardelli Chocolate Company's factory, now repurposed into a vibrant marketplace.
Nearby restaurants
Tartine Bakery
Bakery · $$ · Mission District
Zuni Café
Californian · $$$$ · Hayes Valley
Swan Oyster Depot
Seafood · $$$ · Nob Hill
Tadich Grill
Seafood · $$$ · Financial District
Foreign Cinema
Californian-Mediterranean · $$$ · Mission District
Nopa
Californian · $$$ · Hayes Valley
Flights to New York
Live round-trip fares from Travelpayouts partners.
Partner links — our site's partners are Expedia, GetYourGuide, Go City, Big Bus Tours, Hotellook, Kiwitaxi and Localrent; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Stay near Union Square
Browse stays in New York by budget and style — prices and availability open on our booking partner's site.
Partner links — we're partnered with Expedia and Hotellook; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.