Union Square is lively block of a park sitting right before the downtown shopping district. On my errands to and from downtown this is often my middle point to catch a breath before continuing up the hills to get home. There's a lot to admire around and despite some homeless people wandering around, which may or may not shock visitors - it's well kept and well maintained with a lot of beautiful plants and flowers all around, and beefed up patrol since the string of incidents of theft and vandalism a while ago. We're in a CITY, y'all. Anyways, great for people watching; there are benches, stairs and open air seating with two cafes (limited) on each end. In the middle is the square with a stage, the large Dewey statue of Nike, the Greek goddess of Victory representing the victory of the battle of Manila Bay (history peeps, this for you) host to many displays and events throughout the year: spring flowers, live music and performances, Christmas tree and ice skating rink during the holiday season, art displays and many more. Best on foot, but there's a paid parking garage underground and the cable car passes through Powell Street. I wish people would stop vandalizing parks as it offers refuge and adds a green element to an otherwise concrete jungle. If you pay attention closely, there is so much to discover in just a little square.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Union square, being one of the major city Center attractions in San Francisco has a lot to offer. From malls, eateries to ice rink and more fun games, this place has it all. ✨ This place is packed with fun. Union square is mostly crowded, even more during evenings and night time. This place has some really great eateries to grab quick bites and to dine as well. Union square is wheelchair accessible. Can be a little confusing for first time visitors; don’t worry Google Maps has your back. You can easily expect to spend 2-3 hours here or more, depending upon your activities. There are some budget shops to get souvenirs too.. (CVS Pharmacy & more) Union square has a lit vibe with so much to do, and also their are several (small) live musical shows that take place. Preferable time to visit would be evenings to savour the city lights. Macy’s is one more highlight of Union Square. Buses/ trams are easily available here in frequent time intervals, the connectivity is a plus. Would suggest walking around, as it helps, explore the square with more detail.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Visited union square in multiple occasions across the last 15 years. Union square area by far is in its worst state ever. Shops have closed down, many known establishments are leaving. San Francisco has lost its charm, the existing establishments have not changed at all. Apart from observing fewer stalls and increasing prices and not increasing quality. I was wondering if I had either stepped into a Time Machine when I walked into the places or into a ghost town. Where’s all the tourist? Why is everything so expensive? Why is the tax so much? Crime rate has increased. I was always on the lookout for suspicious people. Once I thought someone wanted to punch me when I was in a shopping mall. I felt so unsafe. If you have to visit San Francisco, just stay a couple of days. You are better off arranging accommodations elsewhere.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

A public plaza with public art pieces over a parking garage, surrounded by shops. The center of Union Square is clean and secure. However, there are many homeless people seated on benches and steps on the outer parts of the square. Recently, there have been many police officers patrolling and monitoring the area to ensure that no brazen looters raid businesses, so you can feel secure being in Union Square. Parking and public transportation are nearby. Some parts of the square are fenced off due to construction of the Union Square Muni Metro station. Overall, it's an iconic location that all San Francisco tourists should check out, but pay attention to your surroundings if you want the best photos and experience.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Union Square in San Francisco is famous for its vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment scene. It's known for its upscale boutiques, department stores, and luxury brands, making it a popular destination for shoppers. The square also hosts various events, art installations, and live performances, contributing to its lively atmosphere and reputation as a cultural hub. Additionally, its central location and historical significance add to its popularity among tourists and locals alike. I had a good time here. There is a paid parking lot building
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

This is a cool place to see lights and the ice skating rink in Christmas time. There are tons of name brand stores such as Gucci and Louise Vuitton nearby. There are also tea/coffee places, a subway, and many Asian food places nearby. Lots of police here because of the high-end stores. It felt pretty safe here at night and during the day, just watch your wallet, phone, and other items carefully in case of pickpockets (people who steal from your pockets then disappear into crowds).
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

We stayed at the Chancellor Hotel on Union Square back during our visit to San Francisco, during the winter of 2018. This one-block plaza and surrounding area is one of the largest collections of department stores, upscale boutiques, gift shops, art galleries, and beauty salons in the United States, making Union Square a major tourist destination and a well-known gathering place in downtown San Francisco. Here are some pictures I took of this place from 2018.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

An iconic square , right in the middle of the city. You’re going to enjoy the sun, If you’re going in the mid day and you can see all the walks of life you can see the poorest citizen in San Francisco huddling under the bush to get some sleep and you can see the billionaire from his gleamy 50th floor and get the taste of American society. . . Overall, it’s a very nice place either to take a quick break and relax your legs or take some fresh air and eat a quick lunch. .
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

So much to do in this area! We stayed at a hotel just about a block from Union Square and it was the best location to explore the city from the center. Tons of brand shopping stores in this area and restaurants within walking distance. There is also an ice skating rink that opened up late November and Christmas decor was up at this time we visited. I felt safe walking around this area both in the daytime and at night since it is mostly a tourist area.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

A nice outdoor venue to eat and chill. Despite there are much homeless loitering and many constable patrol cars around, it’s still ok to go around the area. The surrounding garden horticulture and area are also clean and well maintained, except probably the pigeons area is much soiled, due to much public feeding there. There is also one Heart of San Francisco sculpture found only. Not sure where’s the rest. There is a Bistro that served decent coffee and breakfast and under the Union Square has a paid parking garage which is good for shoppers.

It may not be that magnificent, it may not be that spectacular, but it's a nice and delicate place for you to spend couple minutes when you're around the downtown San Francisco. There's four hearts located at the 4 corners of the Union Square, I like the one with Yoda on it, and especially his deep-thinking quote, DO OR DO NOT. (I spent quite some time standing there digesting this sentence at the heart of San Francisco)
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

This is so beautiful right now. I love all the holiday decor, ice skating rink, and holiday music It's also conveniently surrounded by high end department stores making shopping a breeze. The landscaping is beautiful and seating is also available. You may want to try and buy your ice skating tickets in advance. All easily accessed by the trolley or bus. You should come out if you get a chance.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

It's an iconic area and very festive at Christmas. who doesn't want to come to Neiman Marcus and Macy's and Sax 5th Avenue during the holiday season. when we went, they were having a winter walk Christmas festival, the ice skating rink was set up. we tried to get a drink at the Sir Francis Drake but it was too busy. we grabbed the Curry fries At the irish bank, which is two blocks away. we ate at the local restaurant Sears one block away from union square and was pleasantly surprised with great food.
Visited on
Weekend

I wanted to see the Christmas . It's beautiful. I was also geeked to find out while out there that The Lion King is back in SF. I love that play/musical. The city looked beautiful. Still clean from the APEC gathering that took place, everywhere looked well manicured. This city is absolutely gorgeous, and some of the sights and views are breathtaking. The city deserves to recapture its former glory.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

I’ve been coming to San Francisco almost monthly for six years. August 2023, my most recent trip. Fewer homeless than before the pandemic around Union Square, along the streets between there and the Financial District and Ferry Building. More police presence. I felt safe. While there are fewer retailers, the wonderful little SF restaurants are still there. The waterfront is bustling, and there is still a lot to do and see.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

This is a great public gathering place downtown. It houses several events from music (live, dj, band), artists, floral, holidays, etc. This weekend is was nice seeing the night lights, the huge Christmas tree up already, the ice rink getting underway. A fun crowd this Saturday night. I don't know if Veterans Day had anything to do with it.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Best place to visit for shopping, family or romantic weekend. Stay at The Donatello Hotel that offers microwave & kitchenette in large room, also, level 15 has a gym & 2 saunas. Shopping at Union Square is amazing with Westfield at one end & Macy’s on Union Square side, with many specialty stores inside & outside of Westfield.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Union Square located in the center town of San Fransisco., its public plaza and indentic with shopping centre in SF city. It is becoming major tourist destination and surronding area are department store, mall, gift shop, brand collection store. The union square it self, clean and cozy for gather together with family or froends.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

You have to park vehicle around the corner and pay for it. It is center of Union Square. It has garden where you can rest and spend good time with family and friends. There was restaurant where you can buy stuff. There was also stoppage of cable car. It was good experience to view city and road through cable car.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

What a pleasure the Union Square was. We got picnic items at Trader Joe's a block away. It was a sunny day with a table and chairs in the square. There were skate boarders who entertained us. The blossoming yellow tulip tree was beautiful in the background. We were surrounded by the best stores and the Westin Hotel. Nice people walking by and asking us to use chairs when we're about to leave. A memory that was great to have!

It’s super great for tourists and all, but what I love about it are the shopping malls…there are a lot! The ice rink is also nice and the Christmas decorations, however I don’t like how it’s always so busy and there are a lot of crazy people. Recommend though for tourists! Great spot for visiting while on your trip around San Francisco.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
30–60 min
Reservation recommended
Yes

Very view people other than the tour bus lines. With so many Stores and restaurants closed it is like a ghost town compared to pre pandemic. Besides stores being closed I noticed many of the buildings that used to fly the American Flag Proudly did not now! Is that because the business is closed or extreme left politics?
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
30–60 min
Reservation recommended
Not sure

Was just waiting for my boyfriend to come pick me up. I waited at the blue metal tables and it was pleasant. There was lots of skateboarding around me, but I didn't mind. Union square seems almost like there's hardly any foot traffic in the city as there was before. Overall, I was good.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

A lovely open field plaza in the middle of the city center surrounded by buildings. Great area to host a small event. There are benches and chairs all around, so you may take a coffee break. Some snack shops are set up at the corners of the Plaza so people may make purchase at their convenience while staying in the union Square Also, it is a great site to view the cable card as it is right by the tracks

Well, I’m in San Francisco and I’m headed to Macy’s and the blue angels are flying overhead and the weather is wonderful and warm. It is cold our Indian summer as a kid growing up in the bay area. It meant we did not have to wear a coat over our Halloween costumes I feel that same getting us today. I love the city most of the time I love Union Square and I love fleet week.
Visited on
Weekday

Nice spot in the downtown area. We rode trolley cars to this stop. There’s tons of shopping, restaurants, photo ops and history. Lots of seating in the square. Full of pigeons and little birds looking for goodies. No fee to enter. Busy but not so crowded that it became a problem.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Nice place, no must see but ok and a very nice Union Square Café! Hip hop bus station… this was crowded… we haven’t use this bus, by feet and Cable Car you can see a lot… queue to Hip hop bus was very long… you should think if you really wanna pay so much for the queue… Pedicab is also alternative…Macy is here at Union Square too and other shops…
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

This square block park is the heart of San Francisco's shopping district. At the moment, there's a Xmas tree and an ice skating rink. Tyler Florence has opened a terrific bakery in one side and a cafe in the other. Easy access to the Chinatown underground station. You can sit and watch the cable cars pass by. Yes, there are some homeless folks, but there are in every large city in America.

I loved being in union square. It’s big, it’s full of life but get outta there before traffic steals all the magic around 4-5:30 pm Make sure you check out the maps and the different carpooling and public transit options, they could literally save your day.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Nice stop when in San Francisco. The atmosphere felt different from the latest visit pre covid. Many businesses are still closed, not so clean. The booking process for the rides is not well organized.. waiting time is unreasonable and so disappointing.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
30–60 min
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$16–20

It is a good place to go shopping, enjoy a good coffee or a slice of cheese cake. It has ample parking. A few blocks away you will find a stop to take the emblematic cable car. In the winter season is decorated with a big Christmas tree and ice rink.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Union Square is the beating area in the heart of downtown SF, creating memorable moments for families and friends alike as they explore luxury brands and fashionable malls together. Nestled amidst towering skyscrapers buildings
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Lots of photo opportunities here! A heart sculpture at the 3 of the corners of the square that are unique and different design for each. There is seating available to look at the sights and enjoy the sun. Information center also available.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

It is out of a hallmark move this time of the year. In the heart of the Hustle and bustle of San Francisco the people were all pleasant couples on a romantic stroll and Families all around. The staff at the Ice park were very helpful.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
$16–20

This lies at the heart of San Francisco, gives you a good old feeling of the city. Has a Starbucks and in the corner and surrounded by old buildings. You can find some local artists and bands playing music and having concerts.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

I’m very happy to skate here. The Christmas atmosphere is great, but I don‘t want to do it again. There are too many people skating at the same time.I even fell down in order not to bump into the child. There is no visible first aid kit around me, but the staff cares about me. By the way, you need to order skating on the official website before come.

Union Square used to be a very popular destination for travelers, but due to the pandemic and increased issues in the area, it has lost much of the draw that it used to have. Still, it's picturesque, and there are some great stores, restaurants, attractions, and views to see that are definitely worth checking out.
Visited on
Weekend

Had a nice short walk and weekend night break from a concert we were seeing. There we some homeless, but not a crazy amount and super peaceful actually; was nice to find a quiet outdoor spot to relax and talk. Love the palm trees♥️Miss this place!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

With all the crime going on at Union Square and famous brand name shops closing, Union Square is still one of the better places for families to gather and do their shopping especially this season where the ice skating rink is in session there.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes

Great atmosphere at Christmas! I've visited this place both in August and November and it's been a great experience both times. I recommend you going inside the Macy's store and going to the last floor. You will have a great view from there!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Love this place! Been visiting Union Square for centuries it has been through many challenges some good and not so good! Excellent designer retail stores, cafe's, restaurant's and exceptional hotels. The cable cars are a San Francisco treat! Highly recommend!❤️
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

Amazing place surrounded by skyscrapers, retails stores and restaurants! We were here during the Tulip festival. The lines were quite long at the time and we had to wait for several hours to enter. Paid parking is available.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

We really enjoyed seeing the tree in Union Square. We were a little bit worried with all the bad press the city has been getting, but we were pleased to see that the area looked great. Everything was very well put together.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Great place for family and friend. During Christmas there a ice skate arena for kids. Not free. The parking is a big hassle. Just you know there is a parking lot underground but it’s small so check before visiting the place. Not really safe so be careful, other then that good experience …

An oasis inside the busy area od SF. An artisitc, relaxing and a easy to recognize place with so many iconic and memorable things. Couldn't imagin' SF without Union Square.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Art, skyscrapers, towering buildings, my daughter, Rebel, loves afternoons in Union Square. She doesn’t miss the playground or regret missing dinner, as long as she can run in the park at Union Square. Plus the cable car stops there at the square. Who doesn’t love cable cars? Rebel’s Dad

I take the advantage to recommend a great free tour that leaves every day from Union square: look for Filip. Really fascinating. Highly recommended, 2+ hours with highly knowledgeable tour guide. VERY RECOMMENDED. DO NOT MISS. (Filip is on the last left. I am the 4th from Right...)

I love coming to visit Union Square during Christmas time. The lights, the ice skating, food trucks, and people all around. The ginormous Christmas tree and Macy's Christmas wreaths make great background for some great pics
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

The tree and ice rink create a very holiday feel. Nice police presence in the area and they are engaging with the community. It’s a good place to bring the family for some holiday cheer
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
10–30 min
Reservation recommended
No

A wide selection of shops a majority are high end luxury brands. A good place to find that special gift for someone or yourself! There’s also street entertainment in the centre which was nice to watch. No public restrooms so you have to rely on an establishment you visit.

The problem is it has lost its sparkle. Homeless people abound, stores are closed and prices for what is open is stupid crazy expensive. The lights and decorations are still beautiful.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

We visited Union Square during our trip to San Francisco. The square is surrounded with high end stores and some great restaurants. We just walked around and took some pictures. Glad we checked it off our list.
Visited on
Weekend
Free entry
Yes

Union Square is the hub for anyone looking for shopping and dine in. These days areas around it are a bit unsafe so if you are traveling alone then day time is fine but in evening, stay near the crowded streets and prefer walking in groups at night time.

The view and atmosphere were amazing, especially with San Francisco's year-round mild weather. Lots of stores and other attractions to tour, as well as places to walk around and take pictures. Overall, amazing vibes, I would come here again.

Love San Francisco's people Love the old buildings and streets San Fran was a real treat so glad we got to visit
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

Union square is what’s fun and festive at the end of the year. It can be crowded T times but it’s perfect for family outings or even special time with suggestive you love. Ice skating, restaurants, and ask the shopping you can think of!

Always a magical experience this time of year. I'm a total night owl and find a stroll through the square after closing up at the bar to be a favorite activity. Usually you're alone. Daytime and early evening can get crowded

Walked around the square and saw the Christmas tree, which was a bonus for a UK visitor in November. Went up yo the 7th floor in Macys and viewed it from the balcony. It looked stunning and was worth the elevator trip. More

A nice, colorful area especially when all dressed up for the holidays. Doesn't blow your mind but worth dropping by if you're in the area
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Winter Walk with some grey food trucks. There is a very large SFPD presence so I felt completely safe. Was there during the day alone. Had a nice afternoon shopping and felt completely safe.
Visited on
Weekday

Nicely decorated for the holiday. Ice rink was available for skaters. Great architecture all around. Lots of high end shopping.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Beautiful place and deserving of its reputation. Don't leave any crumb of food on the ground or you'll get a hundred pigeons fighting for it. Also a bit surprised by the number of homeless people all around. More

THE place to be when in SF, they always have something going on. Skating ring for the holidays, coffee shop, lots of stores around and restaurants. Tram car has a stop here, but close to Market St, BART or trams

Very chilled place to sit and watch the world go by, while my wife was having fun shopping.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Always nice to see the tree lit up and the ice skaters too. Makes me feel very nostalgic and warm and fuzzy inside!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

As a tourist, I liked here to take some shoots. Rather than I didn't find very much interesting there. If your accommodation was not in this area, have to use public transit to catch there.

Iconic park central to a lot of shopping and tourist destinations.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

It's clean, has nice decorations, and it's surrounded by stores.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

A good place to visit in San Francisco. Always something happening. There is an ice skating rink.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

It's always Nice to see All the Decorations for Christmas.... CHEERS and SEMPER FIDELIS....!!!!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Beautiful place, especially in the early morning.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

GOOD JOB SAN FRANCISCO HOLIDAYS DECORATING DEPT. UNION SQUARE LOOKING GREAT. ICE SKATING TOO!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Lots of shopping and fun atmosphere. Careful parking in this area and be sure to bring walking shoes. Very cool sites and people watching, especially around the holidays. More

Beautiful at holiday time. See giant Xmas tree, menorah and ice rink with store windows.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

So nice to see SF bouncing back thanks to Macy's and all the Christmas activities in Union Square. We had a wonderful shopping, skating and dinner experience with the kids!

Dry lovely square! Clean and had great taste in architecture and design. Really enjoyed walking around seeing all the buildings and shops.
Visited on
Weekend

It’s a union square of a major city! You get that feeling and fantastic view. Can’t compare to New York but not bad either! In winter you can also ice skate! More

One of the best place to visit in holiday season feel the vibes of Christmas
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

San Francisco is a nice city. Buses and trains are clean and efficient, no graffiti. Union Square is a nice place for shopping and subway stations are close by

Great area Clean. Plenty of seating.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Quiet peaceful w great photos but be advised no power outlets to speak of close to Macys/Cheesecake Factory. Be aware possible landing site @X Falcon 9

It’s always super cool here. The vibes are it. Recently went to go ice skating and all of the Christmas decorations were up so it was very pretty !!

The Christmas tree is always the highlight of the park!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Love Union Square. Something for everyone one. Love the hearts and floral displays. Great for shopping etc. All the high end stores...

Historic every day but epic on SantaCon day!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

Nice to go @ Christmas time. Wish windows had moving/motion widow display, like they used to. Glad I bought ornaments @ Macys.

Nice, big, open space. Great place to hangout. Very central place that can meet anyone. Lots of activities can be held there.

Nice Christmas tree during the holidays! They also have ice skating rink which may not be too big but still okay. More

This place will be so much more enjoyable if they keep the homeless and mental illnesses people out of the area.

It's a nice spot of the city, I would recommend to have a look from the last floor of the Macy's store! More

Visited on a chilly but beautiful Sunday. Very pleasant.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait

Beautiful area to sit and chat. Shopping & walking around this area. Chill vibes in the summer time. More

Beautiful place to walk around. Really enjoyed my time in San Francisco.
Visited on
Weekend

Loved this location. The architecture, the city vibe. Beautiful layout.
Visited on
Weekday

Love to sit around and drink coffee and rolls. Holidays are fun with street performers.

Tourist group drift by Cable cars clank on the street Bright day good coffee

Very iconic place in dountown SF. There where a band of muisic playing...

There is a huge Christmas tree! A driverless taxi was found.

It's always nice to visit union square during the holidays.

There was a skating rink! Super convenient location.