Many of the locals already know that Union Square is one of the best places to shop in San Francisco, but in case you don’t, you should run, not walk to Union Square. It’s heaven for your shopping addiction. The name Union Square is in reference to the park that borders the main streets of the square; Geary, Post, Powell, and Stockton Streets. Though some renovation has taken place over time, and some still to come, retail is back up in Union Square and it has once again become "the" place to shop.
It is also a great meeting spot to begin to see the city when you have friends and families come to visit you. There are plenty of places to eat, both for long conversation filled dinners or short business lunches. There are even occasional dance and music performances. You can’t forget the famed Macy’s holiday tree that rolls in during the holiday season. There really is something for everyone here!
As you stroll along the streets in Union Square you’ll come across some fine art galleries as well as galleries that exhibit their work rather than selling it. New stores are popping up every day with specialized boutiques of every flavor and the streets are alive with people looking for entertainment.
When it comes to the shopping itself, Union Square offers both upscale retailers as well as big named stores such as H&M, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom’s, Saks, and Bloomingdale’s. Stores account for almost 125,000 square feet of Union Square with more retailers coming in all the time. The luxury stores are rivaled by the very popular fast fashion stores that sell their clothes at a price than anyone can afford. It gives the people shopping here the best of both worlds.
Union Square is such an amazing place, not only because of all the wonderful stores set in one unique district, but because even if you don’t want to shop you can just pull up a bench and do some people watching. On a beautiful day, you'll find tons of people eating lunch on the grass or just enjoying each other’s company at a cafe.
Getting Here
Union Square is very easy to get to by way of the Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason cable cars that serve Powell Street in Union Square. There are also numerous trolley and bus lines up and down the streets of Union Square. The Muni Metro is even planning an extension of their metro system to include Union Square to be completed by 2016. You don’t particularly want to drive because not only is it hard to find a spot, but if you park in the garage, you’ll end up handing over a hefty amount of cash for a couple of hours.
No matter how you get there, just get there! It is an amazing array of shops and department stores that will be sure to leave your wallet light but your bags heavy.
Julia Roberts made Nob Hill famous in the movie Dying Young, but many of the locals of San Francisco already knew about this neighborhood’s wonderful and quaint streets. Renowned for its landmarks and the famous hotels, Nob Hill offers a plethora of unexpected delights. The neighborhood is as much known for its character as it is for the shops and restaurants that adorn it. With the vintage barber shops, corner shops, and nightclubs that seem frozen in time, there is so much to see and do in Nob Hill.
Luxury hotels also dot the landscaping as well as some of the most historic buildings in San Francisco. You don’t have to be a famous person to enjoy this neighborhood though. You’ll find many of the younger people of San Francisco flocking to Nob Hill to enjoy the fabulous apartment buildings and beautiful architecture. Bordered by Polk, Mason, Post, and Washington Streets it isn’t difficult to realize when you’ve reached Nob Hill.
The largest Episcopal Church – Grace Cathedral Episcopal Church – still rises with its entire gothic splendor. With the stained glass and bronze doors you’ll feel like you’re in heaven when you walk by and see this stunning architectural delight. After taking a walk through the church you can experience some of your cities history at the Cable Car Museum. San Francisco has the only operating cable car system in the world, and if you want to fit right into your city you should know the facts about this wonderful mode of transportation. If you get a little tired, take a rest in the heart of Nob Hill at Huntington Park. This pubic park has shady benches that are perfect for reading a good book and catching up with friends from the city.
The shopping is one of a kind – literally. Vintage book shops, a gallery for artisan crafts, and even a sneaker shop run by a former pro skater give you the ability to walk into stores that haven’t been taken over by large corporations and big money. The shops cater to some of the eccentric and most unique customers and there is something to be found by everyone. Whether it is dignified, vintage, punk, or modern…you’ll find it.
Before you end your day in the prime neighborhood of San Francisco don’t forget to enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the premiere restaurants. Whether you are looking for French, Italian, or old world cuisine the restaurants here are better than some of the 5 star dining around the world.
Going to Nob Hill is a must for a San Francisco resident. It is quieter than many of the more popular areas that tourists come to, and it gives you a feel that you really are at home here. The residents are welcoming and polite, and the atmosphere is truly one of the best around.
Many of the locals already know that Union Square is one of the best places to shop in San Francisco, but in case you don’t, you should run, not walk to Union Square. It’s heaven for your shopping addiction. The name Union Square is in reference to the park that borders the main streets of the square; Geary, Post, Powell, and Stockton Streets. Though some renovation has taken place over time, and some still to come, retail is back up in Union Square and it has once again become "the" place to shop.