I never go to Union Square anymore, it’s not like the old days.
Whether you’ve said this or have heard it from other people, it’s true. Union Square and its environs have changed, and in many ways for the worse. Scores of empty storefronts have replaced active retailers, especially on Powell Street from Geary to Market streets. The ongoing hotel labor dispute is jangling nerves, as loud picketers do their best to drive away shoppers, visitors, and conventions in hopes of securing the contract of their dreams. Who knows how long that will take, so we now have a choice. Go or don’t go.
I say go.
Union Square is not only worth the venture, but your presence can help reverse its downward course. You’re more powerful than you may believe.
You may also be pleasantly surprised. If you haven’t been lately, you will immediately notice the police presence. The SFPD command center is parked on Post and Stockton streets. Police are out in force ready to tackle what needs tackling. So are Union Square ambassadors, who will answer questions as they’re on the lookout for issues that need mitigating.
And don’t get me wrong, there are still plenty of problems. I recently saw two gentlemen doing fentanyl on the steps of the square. I implore you not to stand for this. It’s neither O.K. nor legal. The authorities will do something about it, so if you see such behavior, find someone who will help.
Enough about the negatives. Now for the positives. These are a few of my favorite things to see and do in Union Square.
Madame Theodore’s Floral Academy for Wayward Travelers. What? It’s a very cool floral art installation at the Beacon Grand Hotel. It’s a dreamy view into a world that doesn’t exist. It’s free, so stop by and take a peek. It’s best at night, so when you’re done take the extra step and head into the hotel. The newly redecorated Starlight Room on Powell Street is pure elegance.
Union Square is not only worth the venture, but your presence can help reverse its downward course. You’re more powerful than you may believe.
Winter Walk. Held on Saturday and Sundays, Dec. 13–22, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., this street fair on Stockton Street is an easy yes. There are bands, entertainers, food trucks, all kinds of beverages, pop-up shops and much more. Hosted by Union Square Alliance.
Classical Sundays at the ice rink. KDFC, California’s premier classical music radio station, has partnered with Union Square’s Ice Rink to stream “A Classical California Christmas” every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Even if you don’t take part in the skating, you can watch and listen at no cost to you.
The Salvation Army Celebrity Bell Ringing. O come all ye generous San Franciscans! The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign takes place on Friday, Dec. 20, noon to 6 p.m., at the Winter Walk. The Celebrity Bell Ringing portion will be 12:30–2:30 p.m.. Media, mainly. Among them:
- Frank Mallicoat (KTVU)
- Sal Castaneda (KTVU)
- Sue Hall (KOIT/ABC7)
- Gloria Rodriguez (ABC7)
- The Irish News Boys (a band of journalists and classic rockers including Barry “The Fish” Melton and San Francisco Chronicle reporters)
- Miss San Francisco (Inika Mehra)
Oh, and me! This is my fifth year, I think.
Mistletoe Carolers at the Marker Hotel. Head over to this historic hotel at 501 Geary Street to hear the award-winning music of Dickensian carolers for free. They sing in full glory on Friday and Saturday evenings, from 4–7 p.m. Last two dates are Dec. 20 and 21. The massive roaring fireplace will make you feel warm and fuzzy inside and out, too. For more information, visit The Marker Hotel.
The new Saks 5th Avenue. Taking up the corner on Powell and Post Streets, the venerable department store has undergone a makeover. It’s club style now, meaning you have to make an appointment to get in. At first I was dubious but I did go and found it to be lovely. There’s no fee to enter or any obligation to buy. Call 415-986-4300 or email conciergesanfrancisco@s5a.com.
The Hyde Street cable car. Winter is by far the best time to ride a cable car. Almost all are gorgeously decorated so you’ll be riding in a festively decked out car. I suggest the Hyde Street car (brown placard on front) because the route is so stunning. The turnaround on Powell and Market streets can get crowded so if there’s a long line, walk up to Geary Street where you can usually get on without a wait. The $8 fare (unless you have a Muni Fast Pass, in which case it’s included) makes the most sense if you take it to the end, at Fisherman’s Wharf. (Bonus tip: the Blue Mermaid is a great spot and their Dungeness crab and corn soup is heavenly.)
Gumps. I know what you’re thinking: not everyone can afford the merchandise available at the most San Francisco of all stores. Although much is wildly expensive, you can just browse. You may find something that does fit your budget (a couple of years ago I purchased a pewter platter etched with the Golden Gate Bridge and I think it was only about $35). The gift boxing with red ribbon is a throwback to a finer era, too.
Cityscape Bar and Lounge. This is my go-to spot in San Francisco right now. Situated atop the Hilton Hotel, 333 O’Farrell Street, Cityscape is the tallest sky bar in the city. Since it opened a couple of months ago, I’ve taken many people to it and all have had the same response: a gasp and a wow. Just before sunset is ideal because you may be able to find your home or office outside the walls of glass, then marvel at the sky’s transitioning colors. And yes, that is City Hall in the distance.
Let’s all hope for a better San Francisco in 2025. Wishing can never hurt and is always free. Cheers!
Those are my reasons to go to Union Square. What are yours? Contact me on X at @ericajsandberg.
