Union Square
The shopping core of downtown San Francisco, surrounded by department stores and luxury boutiques. The Powell Street cable car terminal is nearby, and in winter there are a giant Christmas tree and an outdoor ice rink.
Union Square lies north of Market Street. A Dewey Monument commemorating the Spanish-American War stands in the center, surrounded by Macy's, Saks, Neiman Marcus, and flagship stores of major luxury brands. The Westfield shopping center, an Apple Store, and many hotels are also nearby, making the square the center of accommodation and shopping for most visitors. Two blocks south, at the intersection of Powell and Market streets, is the starting point of the Powell Street cable car line. The wait can last up to an hour. From late November to early January, the square hosts a giant Christmas tree and an outdoor ice rink. Note: The Tenderloin district, southwest of the square, has higher crime rates, so avoid walking too far west at night. Downtown parking is expensive, so it's better to take the subway or BART and get off at Powell station.
Opening hours
All day; mall approx. 10:00–20:00
Nearby sights
- Chinatown, San Francisco
- San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)
- San Francisco Cable Cars
- Transamerica Pyramid
- Coit Tower & North Beach
- San Francisco City Hall
- Exploratorium
- Ferry Building Marketplace