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Union Square

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At a Glance

Time Needed: 240 min.

Ages: All

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

Union Square is a vibrant public plaza located in the heart of San Francisco, California. It's a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a diverse range of attractions and activities. One of the main reasons a tourist would want to visit Union Square is its impressive shopping scene. The area is home to numerous high-end boutiques, luxury department stores, and trendy retailers, making it a haven for fashion enthusiasts. In addition to shopping, Union Square also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene. The plaza regularly hosts events such as art exhibitions, live music performances, and theater shows. For those interested in history, Union Square is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Dewey Monument and the historic St. Francis Hotel. Finally, Union Square is a great place to relax and people-watch. The plaza's spacious layout and numerous benches and seating areas provide plenty of opportunities to soak up the bustling atmosphere of this dynamic urban hub.

E 14th St &, Union Square W, New York, NY 10003 Get Directions





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Union Square News

A 2025 Guide To New York City’s Under-the-Radar Holiday Highlights

New York City is home to a wide range of holiday attractions beyond its most famous seasonal destinations. From specialty pop-ups and historic venues to neighborhood light displays and winter markets, these hidden gems offer distinct ways to experience the city during December. Learn more about NYC's lesser-known locations and events across the five boroughs.

San Francisco SPCA To Celebrate 39th Annual Holiday Windows At Macy’s Union Square

The San Francisco SPCA will present its 39th Annual Holiday Windows at Macy’s Union Square, offering adoption opportunities, a shelter animal toy drive, and multiple appearances at Winter Walk.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden's Lightscape Opens To The Public For 2025

Brooklyn Botanic Garden officially opened Lightscape, its mile-long illuminated trail. Now in its fifth year, Lightscape has dazzled hundreds of thousands of visitors with luminous installations and light-splashed landscapes.

RAGTIME 2025 Broadway Cast Recording Will Be Released in January

The 2025 Broadway cast recording of Lincoln Center Theater’s revival of Ragtime, directed by Lear deBessonet, will be released digitally on January 9, 2026.

Sean Patrick Murtagh Returns To Feinstein’s At The Nikko With HOLIDAY TEST DRIVE XIII: SPARKLE & JOY

Award-winning singer Sean Patrick Murtagh will return to Feinstein’s at the Nikko on Sunday, December 21 at 5:00 p.m. with Holiday Test Drive XIII: Sparkle & Joy, the newest installment in his long-running holiday concert series.

The Stand Unveils Lineup for the New York Comedy Festival

The Stand has unveiled its full lineup for the 2025 New York Comedy Festival, including Mark Normand’s Schtick or Treat, a Tunnel to Towers benefit with Michael Longfellow, and previews of its new Chelsea Market venue.

Photos: Tribeca Film Festival Hosts Special Screening of LOST & FOUND IN CLEVELAND

The Tribeca Film Festival welcomed members and Broadway favorites for a special screening and Q&A of Lost & Found in Cleveland at Regal Union Square. See photos from the event below!

Where Are All Of the New Musicals This Season?

Only two new musicals are opening on Broadway in the first half of the 2025-2026 season: The Queen of Versailles and Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York). There has been much discourse on the topic of whether rising capitalization costs and the rareness of full recoupment is impacting the number of new musicals being produced on Broadway. 

Videos You Missed This Week: LIBERATION, LITTLE BEAR RIDGE ROAD, and More

It's been a busy week on (and off) Broadway! Fall has officially arrived and a new season is very much in swing. Catch up on all the latest from the week ending October 31, 2025 with videos from Liberation, Little Bear Ridge Road, and more!

Wake Up With BroadwayWorld October 30, 2025- LIBERATION Opens On Broadway and More

Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is October 30, 2025 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.

Character Breakdown: BAT BOY Cast Unpacks Their Roles

Just in time for Halloween, Bat Boy is flying back to the stage at New York City Center. This revised production arrives over two decades after its original off-Broadway run at the Union Square Theatre. Watch in this video as the cast unpacks their roles.

Blue Roses Project to Present RED TIDE by Dom Martello in New Orleans

Tony nominee and acclaimed writer Gideon Glick and producer-director James Will McBride have launched Blue Roses Project. Learn more about their upcoming production here.

Patti LuPone Brings MATTERS OF THE HEART to BroadwaySF

Join three-time Tony Award winner Patti LuPone for MATTERS OF THE HEART at BroadwaySF's Golden Gate Theatre on March 1, 2026. Don't miss it!

DIRTY BOOKS To Be Presented At The New Bated Breath Theater

Bated Breath Theatre Company will present the World Premiere of DIRTY BOOKS, an immersive look at censorship and book banning. Learn more about the production here.

THE LION KING to Partner with Time Out as Sponsor of Time Out Market New York, Union Square

Time Out and The Lion King on Broadway has revealed a multi-month partnership with the hit stage production as the exclusive opening sponsor of the new Time Out Market New York, Union Square. Learn more!


Union Square Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to Union Square

The closest subway stops to Union Square at E 14th St & Union Square W are:

1. Union Square - 14th St (4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, R, W): This station is located right at Union Square and offers access to multiple subway lines, making it a convenient option for getting around the city.

2. 14th St - Union Square (L): This station is also located at Union Square and is served by the L train. It's a great option if you're traveling from Brooklyn or want to explore the trendy neighborhoods of Williamsburg and Bushwick.

As for recommendations, Union Square is a vibrant area with plenty to see and do. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Explore the Union Square Greenmarket: This farmers market is open year-round and offers a wide variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. It's a great place to grab a snack or stock up on picnic supplies.

2. Visit the Strand Bookstore: Located just a few blocks from Union Square, the Strand is a beloved independent bookstore with a vast collection of new, used, and rare books. It's a book lover's paradise!

3. Enjoy a meal at the nearby restaurants: Union Square is surrounded by a diverse range of dining options. From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, you'll find something to suit every taste. For some recommendations, check out this list of popular restaurants near Union Square: https://www.timeout.com/newyork/restaurants/union-square-restaurants.

For the latest subway updates and service changes, I recommend checking the official website of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) at https://new.mta.info/. They provide real-time information on delays, service changes, and planned maintenance work to help you navigate the subway system efficiently.

I hope you have a fantastic time exploring Union Square and the surrounding area!


What's the best way to get to Union Square by bus?

The closest NYC bus stops for Union Square at E 14th St & Union Square W are:

1. Union Square - E 14 St/Union Square W (Northbound): This stop is served by multiple bus lines, including M1, M2, M3, M14A, M14D, and X1. You can check for real-time bus updates and schedules for these lines on the official MTA website: MTA Bus Updates.

2. Union Square - E 14 St/Union Square W (Southbound): This stop is also served by several bus lines, including M1, M2, M3, M14A, M14D, and X1. For the most up-to-date information on bus arrivals and departures, you can visit the MTA website: MTA Bus Updates.

Please note that bus schedules and routes may be subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates before your trip. Safe travels and enjoy your time in New York City!


How much time should I plan to spend at Union Square?

The ideal length of time to spend at Union Square in New York City really depends on your interests and what you'd like to do. If you're looking to explore the park, do some shopping, and grab a bite to eat, a couple of hours should suffice. However, if you want to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and take advantage of all the activities and events happening in the area, you might want to plan for a half-day or even a full day.

Union Square is known for its bustling farmers market, which takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. If you're a foodie or enjoy browsing local produce and artisanal goods, you'll definitely want to plan your visit around these market days.

Additionally, Union Square is surrounded by a variety of shops, including popular retailers and boutique stores. If shopping is on your agenda, you may want to allocate extra time to explore the area's unique offerings.

There are also several renowned restaurants and cafes in and around Union Square, making it a great spot for a meal or a quick snack. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a fine dining experience, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.

Lastly, Union Square often hosts events, performances, and protests, so it's worth checking the schedule to see if there's anything happening during your visit that you'd like to attend.

In summary, while you can certainly enjoy a quick visit to Union Square in a couple of hours, if you want to fully experience everything this vibrant neighborhood has to offer, consider setting aside a half-day or more.


Can I bring food and drinks into Union Square?

Union Square in New York City is a vibrant and bustling area with a wide variety of food and drink options. As a public space, Union Square itself does not have any specific food or drink policies. However, there are several nearby restaurants, cafes, and food vendors where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing drink.

Within Union Square Park, you'll often find food trucks and street vendors offering delicious snacks and beverages. These vendors are a great option if you're looking for a quick and tasty treat while exploring the area.

If you prefer a sit-down dining experience, there are numerous restaurants and cafes surrounding Union Square. From casual eateries to upscale dining establishments, you'll find something to suit every taste and budget. Many of these places offer outdoor seating during the warmer months, allowing you to enjoy the lively atmosphere of Union Square while enjoying your meal.

Additionally, Union Square is home to a popular farmers market where you can find fresh produce, artisanal products, and locally sourced food items. This is a fantastic opportunity to taste some of the best local flavors and support local farmers and producers.

Overall, Union Square offers a wide range of food and drink options to satisfy any craving. Whether you're in the mood for a quick snack, a gourmet meal, or a refreshing beverage, you'll find plenty of choices in and around Union Square.


Does Union Square offer luggage storage?

Union Square in New York City does not have a specific luggage storage policy. However, there are several options available nearby where you can safely store your luggage while exploring the area.

One convenient option is to use a luggage storage service such as LuggageHero or Vertoe. These services provide secure storage facilities at various locations throughout the city, including near Union Square. You can easily find and book a storage spot online, drop off your bags, and enjoy your time in the city without the hassle of lugging around your belongings.

Another alternative is to check with your hotel if they offer luggage storage for their guests. Many hotels provide this service even if you have already checked out, allowing you to leave your bags there while you explore Union Square and its surroundings.

Lastly, if you are traveling with larger suitcases or prefer a more traditional storage option, you can also find luggage storage facilities near major transportation hubs like Penn Station or Grand Central Terminal. These facilities typically charge a fee based on the size and duration of storage.

Remember to always check the specific policies and hours of operation for any luggage storage service or facility you choose, as they may vary.


Is Union Square a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Yes, Union Square in New York City is a great destination for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. Located in the heart of Manhattan, Union Square offers a vibrant and diverse atmosphere that caters to people from all walks of life.

One of the main reasons why Union Square is popular among tourists is its central location and easy accessibility. It is well-connected to various subway lines, making it convenient for travelers to reach from different parts of the city. Additionally, Union Square is surrounded by numerous hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions, making it a convenient hub for exploring New York City.

For non-English language speakers, Union Square has plenty to offer. Many of the shops, restaurants, and attractions in the area have multilingual staff who can assist visitors in different languages. Additionally, Union Square is known for its diverse food scene, with a wide range of international cuisines available. So, whether you're looking for a taste of home or want to try something new, you'll find options to suit your palate.

Union Square is also home to the famous Union Square Greenmarket, which offers a variety of fresh produce, artisanal products, and local treats. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the vibrant energy of the city.

Overall, Union Square is a fantastic destination for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. With its central location, diverse offerings, and multilingual services, it's a must-visit spot for anyone looking to explore the best of New York City.


What ages are appropriate for Union Square?

Union Square in New York City is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that caters to people of all ages. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from shopping at the farmers market to exploring the surrounding shops and restaurants. Families with children will find playgrounds and open spaces to run around in, while adults can take advantage of the numerous cultural events and performances that take place in the square. Overall, Union Square is a great destination for people of all ages to visit and experience the energy of New York City.


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