I've been coming to Union square for years, and it never seems to get old. Right in the middle of downtown surrounded by big stores and busy streets, Union square just feels like a peaceful little spot where you can put a pause on the chaos of the city. The lawn is always green and beautiful, perfect for letting my fur baby run around and play (potty too) and you will always see people enjoying the space, stretched out reading or talking with friends or just soaking up the peaceful space. One of my favorite things about Union square is the art. The giant hearts are iconic in San Francisco and they're always being repainted and reimagined by different artists. So no matter how many times you come here, you will always see something new. I've seen so many versions over the years but I still stop to look at them every time I'm here because there is always something new to. The hearts the statues, the occasional pop-up installations or performances, the square always feels peaceful but alive. There is also always something going on. On my last visit here there were ping pong tables set up everywhere with people playing. I saw juggling classes being offered and arts programs for kids with people gathered around having a good time. There was a reading area and books brought in on carts. They even still had up there holiday backdrop that looks like it was put there just for people to use for the perfect insta shot. There are plenty of tables and benches scattered around so it's easy to grab a seat and stay a while. Even if you're just passing through and you need to rest your dogs for a few minutes, this is the perfect spot. I spent more than a few afternoons here people watching or enjoying a snack from the little stand nearby. It's really a great place to spend some time and a must do if you are in San Francisco. On the weekends you will find people trying to usher you onto bus tours or maybe sell you souvenirs, but you might also witness an event or see straight performers so you never really know what you're going to get. This is a place for visitors and locals with nice surroundings where you can really get a feel for and just to take in the city. read more

This is one of my favorite parts of San Francisco; the shopping is high-end. There is so much here to do and lots of restaurants to choose from. We always stay at St. Francis, a beautiful, perfect location. In winter, they have an ice skating rink and the big Christmas tree, a great holiday spot to get your Christmas celebrations started. As I said, the shopping is fierce! Cheers, my friends SYOY 04/01/26 read more

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Union Square is the heart of the touristy area of San Francisco. During the holidays, the Christmas tree is a great place to take photos with loved ones, and there's an ice skating rink that's set up for the season. Throughout the year, there's a lot of different events, including the Taiwanese American Festival. Union Square is surrounded by a lot of high-end stores, including Macy's, Apple, and most recently a newly-opened Nintendo Store. read more

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The Union Square is looking pretty lively in the area, with the tall Christmas Tree that's been up during the Christmas holiday. This spot is located smack center of the downtown area and right now it's more decorated than normal. Across the street, you can see the very famous Macy's that's also lit up with Christmas decorations. Lots of seating around the park, though not really seats and tables, but there are some if you want to just hangout. There's entrance and exits around Union Square, depending where you would like to go. Recommend to walk through if you're anywhere in the shopping district nearby. read more

Union Square - Christmas Tree at Union Square (December 2025) - Shopping Centers Near Me - San Francisco, California

Beautiful plaza amidst shopping, tourism, and restaurants. Love that they've added amenities to chill, play, and view. read more

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I always enjoy coming to Union Square!! During the holidays, the ice skating rink is here along with the Macys Christmas Tree. I even caught a Santa Con here one year. High end stores are all around Union Square, along with plenty of restaurants and also the famous Westin St. Francis Hotel!! There's almost always lots of people here, besides Christmas there's always something going on here. Plenty of places to sit as people come here to do just that!! The Dewey Monument Statue sits in the middle of the square, which is dedicated to Admiral George Dewey, and on top is Nike, the Greek Goddess of Victory!! read more

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Fun area to hangout with family and friends. There's a lot going on: kids books, play area, games, basketball shooting, etc. All free to the public. Unfortunately it's not always too safe with lots of homeless people around, so keep a look out. This was not our first time here and won't be our last. read more

Union Square - Union Square - Shopping Centers Near Me - San Francisco, California

Large square with seating in the middle of downtown. Take a break in between your shopping. Sometimes special events here like holiday tree lighting, ice skating, tulip festival, all kinds of stuff You can just sit and people watch too read more

Union Square - Shopping Centers Near Me - San Francisco, California

The middle of everything in SFO!! It has my faves Macys, Tiffany's and Neiman Marcus! Plus the Christmas holidays here are wonderful with the big beautiful tree and the ice skating rink! Great ambiance and there is underground parking ! Love it ! read more

Its so absolutely beautiful here when all the lights are lit. The cold air definitely makes it feel like Christmas. read more

Union Square - Shopping Centers Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Such a nice open area to chill out with friends or alone to people watch. Yah there are homeless and other lack luster people around but that's part of SF now. Here in union square we went into macys and grabbed some Starbucks then headed back down to watch some people play ping pong and foosball. While that was going on there was a Zumba class that kicked off. It was pretty fun and interactive. read more

Nice to see the holiday spirit come alive in Union Square with the tree and ice rink. Picture taken at zero dark 30 when no one was around. Kudos to Mayor Laurie for continuing to get out the word on social media to improve our beloved city and support those businesses who have been struggling since the pandemic. read more

Union Square - Holiday Season is upon us! - Shopping Centers Near Me - San Francisco, California

Union Square will always hold a special place in my heart, which is probably why I'm giving it four stars instead of three. The area has changed a lot in the last decade and unfortunately, not for the better. For the park - it's a nice place to stroll in the daytime. For the shopping area along Powell - there are more empty storefronts than those that are occupied. Those that are open close earlier than I remember. The area has really gone downhill in terms of shopping. I wonder what will happen when Macy's closes? I don't feel as safe in the area as I used to. There were a lot more homeless present (and not simply sitting on the sidewalk, but walking around in a drugged stupor.) I really hope that the business district and San Francisco can work to revive this area. Again: it's probably more three star right now... but I remember how it used to be and hope it can be that way again. 2024: 88/100 read more

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The "center" of our very own SFO. It has it's pros and cons and it is starting to clear up from the Gotham days. These days, it's a nice visit and I would recommend it to out of towners. read more

Such a nice open area to chill out with friends or alone to people watch. Yah there are homeless and other lack luster people around but that's part of SF now. Here in union square we went into macys and grabbed some Starbucks then headed back down to watch some people play ping pong and foosball. While that was going on there was a Zumba class that kicked off. It was pretty fun and interactive. read more

Be my girlfriend we were able to check out union squares San Francisco this past weekend we'd like how all the Christmas decorations are all set up It was very very busy people who are saying San Francisco was dead when it's quietly not. San Francisco has been really really busy especially with the tourist lately. I've been seeing a lot of people out lately shopping, especially on the weekends so I definitely feel like we are bouncing back from the pandemic. The service here is amazing. There are so many good and great places to spend money such as Macy's Bloomingdale's and Saks the selection is really good as well as Macy has six floors. read more

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Back to square one. This is the place where memories are built around. This is the location San Francisco celebrates year round. This is the place where the New Years starts and ends whether it is traditional American New Year or the Lunar New Year. Union Square is the middle ground of a lot of things happening in San Francisco. This is the fun place for the Santa Con pit stop and also the place to pick free tulips once a year. There are over a million stories here and it's one my favorite tourist traps in San Francisco . The world comes to see San Francisco and not the other way around. There are good restaurants around the area and plenty places to shop. Whether it's the familiar named restaurants like the Cheesecake Factory with a view of Union Square or the Christmas time display in the lobby of the St. Francis Hotel there is something for everyone . The future is Nintendo opening up shop at Union Square 2025. Remember Union Square is not located on Union street in SF. Washington Square is located on Union street in SF. Just to square things out. The place for public affairs with different events and fairs you can feel it in the air Nothing compares to San Francisco Union Square read more

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Union Square is right in the middle of the downtown shopping area. They hold several event through out the year. I am reviewing the Christmas time of year. We went down to San Francisco for a special dinner and shopping. I arrived in the afternoon and parked in the lot below. When we exited the elevators we saw a bum without any shirt cleaning himself. It was not a pretty sight. SF has been plagued with homeless for a long time and criticized for it constantly. I am sure tourist have stopped coming because of it. Anyway the Christmas was decorated and very nice. The stores around the square were also decorated and gave perfect photo opportunities. I love Christmas time and it is still a nice place to come at this time of year. There were still a lot of people in the Square and taking pictures or just hanging out. I didn't feel unsafe there with so many people. read more

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nicer than New York union square...Boston DC...San Diego...nicer in SF...it's a very big deal to the government...hahah..it's a machine..called IBM hahah ...in 1990..HHAHAHAHA read more

Always Love Union Square especially in the Winter time... Christmas is Always Festive...Late Review but better Late than gate keep...lol... walking Around Here is Fun people watch... and check out the Holiday Scenery... Ice skating Rink is in the Middle of The Action... I can't skate but you don't Need to ... i just Relax and chill... double decker buses are coming and going. Best thing is just uber through the city and catch the bart... Walk Across towards Macy's and upstairs you get A Great View From The cheese cake Factory... get A Drink and a Snack while you Are up there... enjoy till Next Christmas... read more

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December in Union Square is guaranteed to put me in the holiday vibes! From the Christmas tree, to the roller skating rink and my favorite view of the wreaths, Union Square is the perfect place to find your holiday spirit if you have been missing it! Get a hot chocolate and take a stroll in the cool SF breeze while watching people ice skate to fun music. They also have great events throughout the year and you should be able to find something you enjoy. Happy holidays! read more

Loved soaking in the Christmas vibes at Union Square in the city! We made stops at Macy's, the LV store, and the San Francisco Shopping Center in Market Square. The giant ornament decorations at the cable car stop were just amazing! read more

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A central part of the city full of luxury stores, tourists, office workers, and holiday decorations. It's nice to go around Christmas when they put up a giant tree and an ice skating rink. There's heavy policy and security guard presence here. Almost every luxury store has its own cop or security guards plus doormen standing at the entrances. read more

Plenty of sightseeing to explore the area and enjoy the vast amount of shops, cafes, restaurants, and hotels. During the Spring participating businesses made up Union Square in Bloom featuring various installations of flowers which was so fun and neat to see. The hotel I was staying at was participating and that's how I was introduced to the concept. Plenty of luxury and contemporary shopping is in the area so go window shopping or go ahead and treat yourself. The architecture around here is super impressive so don't forget to look up! read more

Union Square is truly in bloom!!! It was flowers galore! Even neighboring Maiden Lane was aglow at night! The gang was present: Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Macy's. Numerous designer boutiques in the area: Gucci, Chanel, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana to name a few. Great area to people watch read more

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Great atmosphere, restaurants, hotels, and shopping! Love this area to meet all of our needs read more

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Union square is one of the destinations that we have in our bucket list and the trip doesn't matter is leisure or business this is where we get our hotel or stop by. Very vivid and live square with gorgeous decoration, painting and luxury brand stores. There is a nice selection of painted hearts and every piece has its own story. There is also great people working here if you have any questions dont hesitate to ask them. We were there when they came and opened the ping pong tables i mean they did put nets! Visiting this place is free but its hard to not walk around and not buy anything and the stores around are brand name (luxury) ones so they are so expensive and also this is SF and the high prices and high taxes are there so no complaints! Union square is the heart of san fransisco and the beautiful The Dewey Monument is eye catching. Dont forget to plan ahead while there is lot of things to do and see. Cable cars are passing by this place so put in your bucket list! read more

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Hello, welcome to my review! Fun place to see the area. Lots of shopping in the area. Christmas time has nice tree and lights. Be safe it's downtown SF. Thank you! read more

First a tall sand dune, and now this! Union Square was initially a tall sand dune. Then and some point it became the property of Colonel John Geary, the youngest ever Mayor of San Francisco and later a Union general in the American Civil War. In 1850 Geary deeded the land to the city of San Francisco with the stipulation that it would be used for park purposes. For years the Union Square was used for different purposes, but then some time between 1871 and 1880 it was first formally designed as a park. The park was redesigned a number of times until May 14, 1903 when President Theodore Roosvelt dedicated the current monument at the center of the square to Admiral George Dewey a hero of the Spanish-American War. Today Union Square is an elegant plaza surrounded by tall trees, elegant stores and plenty of places to eat or drink. Top activities around the square include shopping, galleries, theater productions and tours. It is also next to the cable car route that take you from this district to Fisherman's Wharf. To read more about the history of the square go here: https://www.foundsf.org/index.php?title=A_HISTORY_OF_UNION_SQUARE To see what options are available around the square go here: https://www.visitunionsquaresf.com read more

Union Square - Shopping Centers Near Me - San Francisco, California

In Europe, every town has a center. For San Francisco Union Square is it. Smack dab in the middle of the shopping district, there are name brands with boutiques on the square: Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Neiman Marcus, Nike, Apple, Willams-Sonoma and Tiffany's. Macy's is a long-time matriarch of Union Square; they sponsor many holiday decorations such as the annual Christmas tree. Thank you San Francisco for having this civilized space for cultural groups to celebrate festivals, outdoor film screenings, football rallies, big food events and fashion shows. You can also enjoy just sitting and watching people walk by. read more

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Went here with a full bus of people and it was great! The vibe is very magical with the ice skating rink in the middle if park. The parking is under the park which is great and has easy access. Went shopping in the near by stores along the park. During the evening we sat down and enjoyed a nice cup of hot chocolate and looked at the tree. Christmas is here! Happy Holidays! read more

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I love the events at Union Square and shopping at all of the surrounding stores . Here is the latest event. Vote for your favorite bloom usiing this link. https://visitunionsquaresf.com/union-square-in-bloom-2024 Event details: Bloom Finale & Bloomies Awards Saturday, August 17th from 3-6 pm: Get ready to celebrate the much-anticipated transition from the vibrant burst of spring blossoms to the bountiful harvest season, as Union Square in Bloom 2024 draws to a close with its grand finale event. read more

Tons of police to monitor and make sure everybody is safe - both day and night. This is a result of some city officials who wanted to make sure that people and store owners felt safe. The heavy presence is to ensure people enjoy the holdiays as much as possible. Was it a year or two ago where all these high end stores were targeted by kriminals? Well, as a result there is an unusual amount of police presence in and around this area seemingly 24 hours a day. If I'd have to estimate - the majority of cops are all centered here. I'd say Union Square is as safe as its ever been. Nothing is perfectly safe and I'd probably still tell you to shop with a friend or two and to keep an eye out. Maybe if you have an expensive new phone - keep it in your pants. Most of the time its a good idea to keep it in your pants. No need to go around showing it off. Speaking of showing off - if thats your thing there are plenty of upscale stores to purchase things from to flaunt your wealth. Fashion was designed in France from what I heard as a way for people to quickly tell what class you belonged to and so they could treat you accordingly. This is a great place to play along with that little game. The holiday lights are out and I don't think there is a reason not to wander through and maybe have a fancy dinner or at least a fancy drink here. Live it up and use your plastic. Worry about that bill later. read more

Not a fan anymore, they got people in orange shirts coming up and harassing you needlessly. I don't know if any covid protocols are practiced anymore, but the guy who came up to me kept talking to me with a productive wet cough every minute, as I inched backwards, clearly not wanting to engage. I used to like sitting here to rest between shops or waiting for appointments but now I feel like I'll get covid from here again... My throat really itches and hurts again... read more

Union Square is the classic must visit spot in San Francisco. Whether you're a local or a tourist, there's always things to do. Parking can be tricky, but the Union Square Garage makes it somewhat easier. During the holidays, the tree, lights, and ice rink make it magical--even with the crowds. Great spot for shopping, people-watching, and soaking up the city vibe! read more

Union Square is a must stop place for any first time visitors to SF. It's located just up the street from the Powell BART station and walking distance to/from the financial district, Chinatown, the Civic Center and more. The square is lined with fancy shopping and also some bars and restaurants. We love to come during Christmas to see the huge tree, all the decorations, the ice rink, and folks playing Christmas jazz songs. Note: There is parking underneath the square as well as a BATHROOM. read more

Union Square - Shopping Centers Near Me - San Francisco, California

Peaceful, warm spring day and passed by and through on my way to dinner. Lovely small park with iconic monument. read more

Union Square - Sending love from Union Square SF - Shopping Centers Near Me - San Francisco, California

The one thing that I enjoy the most of Union Square is the fun events & Happy Holidays... When Union Square is decorated with that big and beautiful Macy's Christmas Tree!!! I love to take a walk around this beautiful Macy's Christmas Tree during the Happy Holiday Season!!! read more

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Writing this review during quarantine makes me miss the live-like vibes on a sunny day filled with so many tourists and seeing people just socializing chillin taking a sit enjoying the day. Union Square is in the center of the tourist downtown area surrounded by high end shopping and cute heart art pieces to take a picture with whether you're a tourist or not ahah. I honestly love the holiday vibes here when it is holiday season!! I still have yet to attend the tree lighting ceremony but the lit up Christmas tree is everything and seeing the Macy's building decorated with lovely Christmas wreaths per window. There is underground parking and probably cost a lot per hour since it is downtown, but I honestly find it fun to walk around rather than driving despite how chaotic downtown is. read more

It was really nice to see some tourists walking around. You know, seeing some normalcy. I'll be honest though, I had a little anxiety walking around downtown, because of the recent attacks on Asian Americans. I was surprised that the o'Farrell garage was free under 2 hours. Definitely caught me by surprise in a good way. read more