UNION SQUARE
“Union Square” refers to the public plaza bordered by Powell, Post, Stockton and Geary Streets, as well as the upscale shopping district that surrounds it.
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THREE DIFFERENT CONFIGURATIONS
At the beginning of the 20th century, Union Square was essentially a huge lawn, divided up by curving walkways.
By the 1940s, it had a decidedly rectangular look, as well as an underground parking garage.
In the early 2000s, almost all of the grass was paved over, leaving vegetation only at the outer edges of the plaza.
STOCKTON TUNNEL
It runs under Stockton Street between Sutter and Sacramento. When you come out the other end, you’re in Chinatown.
THE DEWEY MONUMENT
The column in the center of Union Square honors Admiral George Dewey and his victories
during the Spanish-
Atop the column is “Victory,” sculpted by Robert Ingersoll Aitken.
HERE THERE BE DRAGONS
Actually, it’s Macy’s, all decorated for Chinese New Year.
THE ST. FRANCIS HOTEL
Over a century or so, it took over the entire block.
ALIENS WALK AMONG US
Hey, they like to shop, too.
NATALIE’S ANTIQUES
After midnight, they all come to life.
MAIDEN LANE
Featuring the Xanadu Gallery, the only Frank Lloyd Wright building in San Francisco.
NEIMAN MARCUS
Or possibly the warp core of the Starship Enterprise. I don’t remember which.
GEARY THEATER
Home of the American Conservatory Theater company.
NOCTURNAL SERENADE
What could be cooler than a melancholy sax providing a soundtrack to the night?
UNION SQUARE GALLERY MARKET
Gotta love the neon!
LEFTY O’DOUL’S
Bearing the name of the onetime-
THE DASHIELL HAMMETT SUITE
Located in the Hotel Union Square, it’s “the stuff that dreams are made of.”