In San Francisco's major center of activity, Downtown, Union Square is where you'll find most of the nationally known department stores, as well as many of the larger hotels. Union Square, bounded by Post, Stockton, Geary and Powell Streets, is a handsome grassy mall and the heart of this bustling shopping district. The blocks around the Square - from Market to Sutter and from Montgomery to Taylor - constitute one of the most prestigious shopping areas of The City. 

Geary Street features live theater and fine eating establishments, while Sutter and Post Streets highlight some of the most sophisticated shops to be found anywhere. Grant Avenue, with its fine shops, leads you to world famous Chinatown. Located just off Union Square, Maiden Lane runs east from Stockton to Kearny and is parallel to Post and Geary Streets on either side. Completely blocked off from through traffic, this brick-paved alley seems a world apart from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the downtown area.

At Market and Powell Streets you'll find the fabulous San Francisco Shopping Centre with dozens of internationally renowned boutiques and two major department stores. The Crocker Galleria, another contemporary shopping complex, is located on Sutter Street between Kearny and Montgomery. There is inexpensive parking available in the garage beneath Union Square and at the Sutter-Stockton Garage.

Union Square derives its name from demonstrations held there in the support of the Union during the Civil War. In the center of the square there is a 90-foot tall naval monument crowned with a bronze Goddess of Victory. Union Square is also the heart of fine dining and shopping in San Francisco.