Union Square is a one-block public plaza in downtown San Francisco, bordered by Geary, Powell, Post and Stockton streets. Come for a walk, a seasonal event or a look at the shops and galleries around the square. In December, the holiday programme brings a large Christmas tree, an ice rink and live entertainment; at other times, free activities can include table tennis, badminton, chess and exercise classes. The plaza is compact, so pair a stop here with shopping or a meal nearby.
From sand dune to public plaza
The site began as a large sand dune. San Francisco turned it into a public park in 1850. The name Union Square recalls rallies held here by Thomas Starr King during the American Civil War.
The plaza covers about 1.1 hectares and sits within a larger downtown district. Geary, Powell, Post and Stockton streets mark its edges. Shops, hotels, restaurants, theaters and art galleries fill the surrounding blocks, so the square can be a useful point to pause between city stops.
Events and seasonal decorations
Union Square hosts live entertainment, parades and special events during the year. Summer performances have included music and dance, while free activities can include table tennis, badminton, chess, basketball and exercise classes. The programme changes, so check what is happening around your visit.
December brings a large Christmas tree, an ice-skating rink, food trucks, live entertainment and festive decorations. The tree is more than 83 feet tall and is decorated with over 33,000 energy-efficient LED lights. Union Square in Bloom brings colorful decorations at another time of year, suited to a more relaxed walk.
Shopping around the square
The plaza is surrounded by department stores, designer shops and boutiques. Macy’s is among the nearby stores, and art galleries and places to eat are also found in the district. You can browse the shops from the square or use it as a meeting point before exploring nearby blocks.
The plaza itself is small, so allow time for the surrounding district if shopping is part of your plan. Public buses connect the area with different parts of San Francisco.
FAQ
What is Union Square known for?
It is a downtown public plaza surrounded by shops, galleries, restaurants and hotels. The square also hosts events and seasonal activities.
What can you do at Union Square in December?
December brings a large Christmas tree, an ice-skating rink, food trucks, live entertainment and festive decorations.
Are there free activities at Union Square?
Free activities can include table tennis, badminton, chess, basketball and exercise classes. The programme varies.
How do you get to Union Square?
Public buses run to the area from different parts of San Francisco.
