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

Jayne Atkinson and Tim Daly Will Lead the New York Premiere of STILL Off-Broadway

Colt Coeur announced the New York premiere of STILL by Lia Romeo, beginning this Spring. Learn more about the upcoming show here!

Video: Watch Frankie Grande Perform 'I Drove All Night' From TITANÍQUE on TAMRON HALL

Frankie Grande performed ​​Celine Dion’s “I Drove All Night” from the hit off-Broadway show Titaníque on Tamron Hall this morning. Grande plays the role of Victor Garber in the irresistibly funny and irreverent send-up of the blockbuster film Titanic, driven by the songs of pop icon Céline Dion, is enjoying an extended run. Watch the video!

Sara Bareilles, Chelsea Clinton & More to Join Vineyard Theatre 2024 Gala Honoring Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Vineyard Theatre has revealed the artists that will participate in the Vineyard's 2024 Gala honoring Tony Award-winning actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson. See who is taking part and learn how to purchase tickets!

La MaMa Experimental Theater Club and Kinding Sindaw to Present New Exhibition 'In Honor of the Ancestors'

La MaMa Experimental Theater Club and Kinding Sindaw present a new exhibition, 'In Honor of the Ancestors: Indigenous Living Traditions from the Philippines in Diaspora,' open now through Sunday, January 26, 2024 at La MaMa Galleria.

San Francisco Playhouse to Present THE 39 STEPS This Spring

SAN FRANCISCO PLAYHOUSE presents a riotous, rip-roaring riff on Hitchcock's thriller 'The 39 Steps' from March 7 - April 20, 2024.

Video: Patti LuPone Discusses Broadway 'Pandering' to Audiences and Possible Return to the Stage on NY1

Watch Patti LuPone discuss her thoughts on the state of Broadway and hint at a possible return to the stage on NY1 with Frank DiLella.

Video: TITANIQUE Cast Dances to Ariana Grande's 'Yes, And?'

Watch the cast of @Titanique perform to #ArianaGrande's new single 'Yes, And?'

Nicole Parker to Replace Jackie Burns as Céline Dion in TITANIQUE in February & March

Comedian and screen & stage star Nicole Parker will re-board the ship of dreams for a limited return engagement as Céline Dion, in the 2023 Lortel Award-winning Best Musical Titanique.

Christine Lahti, John Lavelle & More Join Vineyard Theatre's RUSSIAN TROLL FARM: A Workplace Comedy

The cast and design team has been revealed for Vineyard Theatre's upcoming production of Russian Troll Farm: A Workplace Comedy by Obie Award inner Sarah Gancher, directed by Tony Award winner Darko Tresnjak. Learn how to purchase tickets!

Frankie Grande to Return to TITANIQUE; Nathan Lee Graham to Join the Cast

Original cast member Frankie J. Grande will return to his captain’s quarters and Nathan Lee Graham will board the ship of dreams for the first time in the smash-hit run of the 2023 Lortel Award-winning Best Musical Titanique for limited engagements.

Vineyard Theatre Appoints New Members to Board of Directors

Discover the latest updates from the Vineyard Theatre as they reveal new additions to their Board of Directors. Get all the details on who will be joining the prestigious board.

David Rockwell, Brian Anthony Moreland & More to be Honored at Theatre Communications Group Gala

Theatre Communications Group's 2024 TCG Gala: Our Stories will honor ​architect and designer David Rockwell, Broadway producer Brian Anthony Moreland, director Schele Williams, and The Shubert Foundation.

San Francisco Playhouse to Present World Premiere of Minna Lee's MY HOME ON THE MOON This Winter

San Francisco Playhouse explores the metaverse with the world premiere play 'My Home on the Moon' by Minna Lee. This sci-fi journey delves into AI, gentrification, and pho in a captivating story.

Tony-Winner Jesse Tyler Ferguson To Be Honored At Vineyard Theatre 2024 Gala

Vineyard Theatre Artistic Director Sarah Stern and Managing Director Suzanne Appel are pleased to announce that the Vineyard's Annual Gala will honor Tony Award winning actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson (Take Me Out). The Gala will be held Monday, February 26, 2024 beginning at 6:00 PM at the Edison Ballroom (240 West 47th Street). 

Review: Mesiba's Israeli Cuisine Served in a Lively Williamsburg Setting

Located on the lobby level of the always popping Moxy Brooklyn Williamsburg hotel you’ll find Mesiba, a Tel Aviv-inspired restaurant with a name that translates to “party” in Hebrew. The concept comes from the lifestyle consulting and management agency, Bar Lab Hospitality, and its founding partner Elad Zvi's nostalgia for the various flavors Israeli food has to offer.


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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