Union Square / Downtown San Francisco Art & Culture

San Francisco is a city known for in art, history and culture, offering visitors an lots of museums, theaters, public art & more. Union Square, often recognized as a premier shopping and dining district, is also a hub for artistic and cultural exploration. From stunning art installations to historic theaters and cultural landmarks, Union Square has something to inspire every visitor.

Museums

While Union Square isn’t known for large-scale museums, it features several cool spaces and galleries worth visiting.

Dolby Chadwick Gallery

If you’re looking to add a little culture to your visit to Union Square, the Dolby Chadwick Gallery is a must-see. Tucked away in a light-filled space on Post Street, this gallery is a community for artists and art lovers.

Founded in 1997, Dolby Chadwick Gallery has earned a reputation for showcasing incredible art that’s both thought-provoking and visually stunning. The gallery features everything from oil paintings and drawings to sculptures and photography, with styles ranging from photorealism to bold abstraction.

One of the coolest things about the gallery is its dedication to blending visual art with poetry. Over the years, Dolby Chadwick has published over 40 art books, including collaborations between artists and poets. Their 2021 book, Stay Inspired, was even named the best independently published poetry book in the country.

The gallery itself is fun to visit. The 6,000-square-foot space is open and full of natural light, making it the perfect place for the carefully curated exhibitions.

The gallery recommends scheduling an appointment in advance to view their exhibitions. It’s an easy process—just email them at [email protected].

Details to Know:

Location: 210 Post Street, Suite 205, San Francisco, CA 94108
Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Contact: Phone: 415.956.3560 | Email: [email protected]

Martin Lawrence Galleries

Located in the heart of downtown, this 9,000-square-foot gallery is a space dedicated to showcasing some of the most celebrated names in 20th-century and contemporary art.

Step inside and immerse yourself in a collection that includes works from legends like Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Marc Chagall, and Takashi Murakami. You’ll also find pieces by emerging artists and modern masters such as Liudmila Kondakova and Robert Deyber, making it a dynamic mix of iconic and fresh perspectives. The gallery features original paintings, sculptures, and limited-edition works, giving visitors a chance to experience a wide range of artistic styles and mediums.

The friendly and knowledgeable staff are a standout feature of Martin Lawrence Galleries. They’re not only well-versed in art history but are also passionate collectors themselves. Whether you’re looking to start your own collection, find the perfect piece to decorate your space, or simply learn more about the giants of art history, the team is there to guide you.

Martin Lawrence Galleries has been a cornerstone of Union Square’s art scene for over 30 years, offering fine art in an approachable and inspiring environment. Even if you’re not in the market to buy, it’s worth visiting just to admire masterpieces by artists whose work has been loaned to prestigious museums worldwide.

The gallery is bright, spacious, and welcoming, making it the perfect place to take a break from walking around Union Square.

Details to know:

Location: 366 Geary Street, San Francisco, CA 94108
Hours: Open daily, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Contact: (415) 956-0345 | [email protected]

Other Union Square Museums and Galleries:

Caldwell Snyder Gallery
341 Sutter St
San Francisco, CA 94108
caldwellsnyder.com

Chloe Gallery
434 Post St
San Francisco, CA 94102
chloefinearts.com

Christopher-Clark Fine Art
272 Post St
San Francisco, CA 94108
clarkfineart.com

CK Contemporary
246 Powell St
San Francisco, CA 94102
ckcontemporary.com

Dennis Rae Fine Art Inc
353 Geary St
San Francisco, CA 94102

Dennis Rae Fine Art Dr. Seuss Gallery
The Art of Dr. Seuss
351A Geary St.
San Francisco, CA 94102

Dolby Chadwick Gallery
210 Post St #205
San Francisco, CA 94108
dolbychadwickgallery.com

Fraenkel Gallery
49 Geary St #450
San Francisco, CA 94108
fraenkelgallery.com

Gallery 444
444 Post St
San Francisco, CA 94102
gallery444.com

Gefen Gallery
315 Grant Ave
San Francisco, CA 94108
gefengallery.com

K. Imperial Fine Art Gallery
49 Geary St #440
San Francisco, CA 94108
kimperialfineart.com

Keane Eyes Gallery
373 Geary St
San Francisco, CA 94102
keane-eyes.com

Martin Lawrence Galleries
366 Geary St
San Francisco, CA 94102
martinlawrence.com

Meyerovich Gallery
251 Post St # 400
San Francisco, CA 94108
meyerovich.com

Montague Gallery
445A Sutter St
San Francisco, CA 94108
montaguegallery.com

Robert Koch Gallery
49 Geary Street 5th floor
Suite 509/511
San Francisco, CA 94108
kochgallery.com

Theaters

Union Square is home to some of San Francisco’s best theaters, offering everything from Broadway hits to intimate performances.

San Francisco Playhouse
450 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94102
sfplayhouse.org

Known for its high-quality productions, this intimate theater showcases a mix of contemporary plays and musicals.

Marine’s Memorial Theater
609 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94102
marinesmemorial.org/theatre

The Marine’s Memorial Theatre is a cherished cultural landmark in San Francisco, located just steps from Union Square. Housed within the historic Marine’s Memorial Club, this intimate 564-seat theater has been a hub for live performances, lectures, and events since 1946. From Broadway-style productions and concerts to thought-provoking talks, the theater hosts many different types of shows.

With its charming Art Deco design and history, the Marine’s Memorial Theatre offers a unique blend of vintage elegance & modern entertainment. Whether you’re catching a show or exploring its storied past, this venue is a must-see for anyone seeking culture in the heart of the city.

Curran Theater
445 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102
broadwaysf.com

A historic theater that hosts major Broadway productions and world premieres.

ACT’s Geary Theater (American Conservatory Theater)
Address: 415 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102
act-sf.org

A cornerstone of San Francisco’s theater scene, offering classic and modern performances in a grand setting.

Shelton Theater
Address: 533 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94102
sheltontheater.org

The Shelton Theater, located at 533 Sutter Street in San Francisco, is a hub for live performances, fine art & creative exploration. Founded in 1993 by Matt Shelton, the theater is an extension of the historic Shelton Studios, which has nurtured artistic talent since 1961. With its 2 intimate venues, the Shelton Theater is the perfect place to enjoy stand-up comedy and improv shows.

The Shelton Theater also offers acting and improvisation classes, making it popular for aspiring performers and arts enthusiasts.

Art Installations

Union Square is a canvas for public art, with installations scattered throughout the area. Some of the best attractions include:

Lucy in the Sky
Union Square / Market Street Station
gizmosf.com/erwin-redl

Artist: Erwin Redl

This illuminated installation of 500+ LED panels stretches nearly 670 feet, creating a kaleidoscopic effect that visitors can walk beneath.

Silent Stream
Union Square Muni Station

Artists: Jim Campbell and Werner Klotz

A stainless-steel sculpture hanging above the Muni platform, resembling an underground creek with mesmerizing light patterns.

Convergence: Commute Patterns
Union Square BART Station

Artists: Hughen/Starkweather

A layered glass artwork blending a topographic map of San Francisco with painted circles representing daily commute patterns.

Madame Theodore’s Floral Academy for Wayward Travelers
450 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94108

Artists: Nicole Whitten and Carina Garciga Meyers

A whimsical botanical-inspired installation in a storefront on Powell Street.

Hearts in San Francisco
Various Locations

These iconic heart sculptures, painted by various artists, are displayed around Union Square, celebrating the city’s creativity and charitable spirit.

Film

The Union Square neighborhood has served as the backdrop for some of iconic moments in film and television history.

Take a stroll through Union Square Park, and you’re walking in the footsteps of Gene Hackman in The Conversation or Clint Eastwood’s Dirty Harry. Nearby, the Westin St. Francis Hotel has hosted everything from noir intrigue in The Maltese Falcon to comedic mishaps in Eddie Murphy’s Dr. Doolittle. Fans of high-octane action will recognize Geary Street from Steve McQueen’s legendary car chase in Bullitt, while Alfred Hitchcock enthusiasts can spot the Flood Building featured in Vertigo. Maiden Lane’s boutiques and cafes set the scene for The Wedding Planner, and John’s Grill, immortalized in The Maltese Falcon, remains a must-visit for lovers of classic noir.

Union Square’s charm extends to television, too. The quirky detective series Monk used Union Square as a backdrop for its mysteries, while HBO’s Looking captured the neighborhood as a central meeting spot for its characters. Armistead Maupin’s Tales of the City brought Union Square’s cultural significance to life, showing its role as a quintessential part of San Francisco’s identity.

Music

Music is woven into Union Square’s history:

Music Venues: Feinstein’s at the Nikko offers cabaret-style performances in an upscale setting, while Biscuits and Blues is a must for live blues.

Outdoor Concerts: Union Square Live hosts free concerts during the summer, featuring local and international acts.

Historical Events: Union Square has seen performances by legendary artists during citywide celebrations and festivals.

Notable Music in Union Square:

Union Square has long been a cultural and entertainment hub in San Francisco, hosting a variety of memorable concerts and music-related events. From iconic performances to recurring traditions, here’s a list of notable musical moments in the Union Square neighborhood:

Tony Bennett’s “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” Tribute (2012)

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Tony Bennett’s signature song, Union Square hosted a tribute concert featuring live performances and appearances by the legendary singer himself. This event solidified Union Square’s connection to San Francisco’s musical identity.

Macy’s Great Tree Lighting Ceremony

A beloved annual tradition, this event features live music performances from local choirs, jazz bands, and even Broadway stars. Past performers have included the San Francisco Boys Chorus and Grammy-winning artists who bring holiday cheer to the iconic Union Square Plaza.

Union Square Live Summer Music Series

This free summer event series brings live music to Union Square Plaza. From jazz and blues to folk and rock, the concerts feature local and international artists performing under the city skyline. Memorable performances have included acts like Lavay Smith & Her Red Hot Skillet Lickers and The Marcus Shelby Orchestra.

Apple Union Square Store Live Sessions

Apple’s flagship store in Union Square frequently hosts live performances and music workshops featuring rising stars and renowned artists. Past sessions have included acoustic sets, DJ performances, and talks by Grammy-winning producers.

Pop-Up Concerts by the San Francisco Symphony

The San Francisco Symphony has delighted Union Square crowds with surprise pop-up concerts, bringing classical music to the streets. These performances often coincide with major city celebrations or cultural festivals.

KFOG Radio’s “Live from the Square” Series

Local radio station KFOG has hosted intimate acoustic sets and live broadcasts from Union Square. These events have featured artists like Counting Crows, Train, and other popular acts with Bay Area roots. KFOG shut down in September 2019, but we will always remember the amazing impact they had on music in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Summer of Love 50th Anniversary Celebration (2017)

Union Square participated in the citywide celebration of the Summer of Love, hosting live music events and art installations inspired by the iconic 1967 movement. The square featured local bands covering music by Jefferson Airplane, The Grateful Dead, and other San Francisco legends.

Jazz in the Square

Dedicated jazz nights have brought renowned artists to Union Square, featuring performances by Pete Escovedo, Kim Nalley, and other local jazz greats, turning the plaza into an intimate concert venue.

American Tulip Day Music

During the annual American Tulip Day at Union Square, live musicians often provide a pleasing soundtrack, creating a festive atmosphere as visitors pick tulips & enjoy the floral displays.

Pride Weekend Concerts

Union Square occasionally hosts events and music during San Francisco Pride Weekend, with LGBTQ+ artists and allies taking the stage to celebrate diversity and community.

Outdoor Silent Disco Events

Popular in recent years, Union Square has hosted silent disco nights, where participants wear wireless headphones and dance to curated playlists spun by local DJs under the stars.

There are always new and interesting concerts and festivals that are announced each year. We recommend check the CrawlSF Event Calendar to make sure you don’t miss out on any upcoming live music in the Union Square Neighborhood.

Architecture

If you a fan of architecture and design, there are some great spots to check out in Union Square. From grand hotels to historic theaters, the neighborhood has a mix of styles that reflect San Francisco’s past. Strolling through Union Square feels like walking through an open-air museum, with each structure offering its own unique charm.

Start with the iconic Westin St. Francis Hotel, a Beaux-Arts masterpiece that has stood proudly since 1904. Its ornate details and luxurious interiors evoke the glamour of a bygone era, while its glass elevators offer modern-day visitors panoramic views of the city. If you are looking for a good hotel for your stay, The Westin is a great choice. Nearby, the Flood Building, with its arched windows and Corinthian columns, stands as a Classical Revival testament to San Francisco’s ability to rebuild after the devastating 1906 earthquake. For a taste of Art Deco brilliance, the 450 Sutter Building is a must-see. Its intricate Mayan-inspired details & gleaming gold accents make it one of the city’s architectural gems.

Union Square’s architectural treasures don’t stop there. The Neiman Marcus Building combines Beaux-Arts elegance with modern flair, highlighted by its amazing glass Rotunda Dome. You can walk in and check it out up close or even book a table at The Rotunda to enjoy the architectural beauty over lunch. The Geary Theater dazzles with its ornate Beaux-Arts design, serving as a cultural cornerstone for decades. Meanwhile, the Hallidie Building captures early modern innovation as one of the first structures to feature a glass curtain wall, a fitting tribute to Andrew Hallidie, the inventor of the cable car.

From the Dewey Monument in Union Square Park to the dramatic spires of the Sir Francis Drake Hotel, the neighborhood’s architecture is as unique as it is captivating. Whether you’re admiring the terracotta façade of the Monadnock Building or soaking in the Gothic Revival charm of the St. Francis Hotel Clock Tower, Union Square offers endless inspiration for architecture lovers. We highly recommend taking some time to walk around the neighborhood and check out the amazing buildings.

Photography

Union Square in San Francisco is a dream destination for anyone looking to fill their Instagram feed with stunning, eye-catching photos. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the neighborhood offers countless opportunities to capture the perfect shot that’s sure to rake in the likes.

Start at Union Square Park, where the Dewey Monument and seasonal decorations like the towering Christmas tree create a lively centerpiece for your photos. Just steps away, the Hearts in San Francisco Sculptures add a burst of local creativity—perfect for framing against the urban skyline. For an unbeatable view, head to the Westin St. Francis Hotel. The grand Beaux-Arts exterior makes a statement, but don’t miss the glass elevators, which offer panoramic views of the city. If you’re craving more architectural gems, the 450 Sutter Building and The Flood Building feature ornate details that make for dramatic shots, while the Neiman Marcus Rotunda dazzles with its stained-glass dome.

Head to Maiden Lane, a charming pedestrian street lined with boutiques and art galleries, or snap some glowing photos of the Lucy in the Sky Installation, a kaleidoscopic LED masterpiece. If you prefer your photos with a side of history, John’s Grill offers vintage charm straight out of The Maltese Falcon. And no trip to Union Square is complete without capturing the hustle and bustle of the Powell Street Cable Car Turnaround, a quintessential San Francisco experience.

Don’t forget the rooftop views at Rise Over Run, where cocktails and skyline backdrops collide for the ultimate urban vibe. Seasonal events and decorations, like the holiday windows at Macy’s or the floral displays of Union Square in Bloom, add festive flair that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re into sleek modern spots like the Apple Union Square Store or quirky interiors like The Golden Gate Tap Room, Union Square delivers endless inspiration for your camera roll.

Best Photo Spots in Union Square, San Francisco

1. Union Square Park

What to Photograph: The Dewey Monument, seasonal decorations (like the giant Christmas tree during the holidays) & lively street performances.

Instagram Tip: Stand at the center of the square for a panoramic shot that captures the surrounding historic buildings.

2. The Westin St. Francis Hotel

What to Photograph: The grand exterior and glass elevators offer views of San Francisco.

Instagram Tip: Snap a photo inside the hotel lobby for vintage, luxurious vibes or capture the city skyline from the elevators.

3. Hearts in San Francisco Sculptures

What to Photograph: Colorful heart sculptures by local artists, scattered around Union Square.

Instagram Tip: Frame your shot with the skyline or nearby landmarks in the background for an artsy, urban vibe.

4. Powell Street Cable Car Turnaround

What to Photograph: The iconic cable cars and bustling crowds at this quintessential San Francisco spot.

Instagram Tip: Capture a moving cable car with the city’s signature hills in the background for a dynamic shot. This is also a great video opportunity for Tik Tok.

5. Neiman Marcus Rotunda

What to Photograph: The stained-glass dome inside the Neiman Marcus store.

Instagram Tip: Angle your camera upward to highlight the intricate details of the dome and the light filtering through. Pair your photo with a fancy meal or cocktail for a touch of sophistication.

6. Maiden Lane

What to Photograph: The charming, pedestrian-only street lined with boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.

Instagram Tip: Visit during golden hour for soft light reflecting off the colorful façades.

7. 450 Sutter Building

What to Photograph: The ornate Art Deco entrance and lobby of this historic skyscraper.

Instagram Tip: Focus on the intricate Mayan-inspired details for a dramatic architectural shot.

8. The Flood Building

What to Photograph: The historic architecture of this Classical Revival building, especially its arched windows and detailing.

Instagram Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the building’s grandeur against the modern cityscape.

9. Lucy in the Sky Installation

What to Photograph: This mesmerizing LED light installation creates a kaleidoscopic visual effect.

Instagram Tip: Take photos during the evening for the most dramatic colors and lighting.

10. The Apple Union Square Store

What to Photograph: The sleek glass design and the Plaza Terrace outside, featuring public seating and water features.

Instagram Tip: Use the glass façade to create a reflective shot that incorporates both the building and the skyline.

11. The Golden Gate Tap Room

What to Photograph: The quirky interior, featuring colorful beer signs, arcade games, and cozy seating.

Instagram Tip: Snap a candid moment while enjoying a pint or playing a retro arcade game.

12. Rooftop at Rise Over Run

What to Photograph: The panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline, lush décor, and stylish cocktails.

Instagram Tip: Capture the city skyline with a chic cocktail in the foreground for a perfect rooftop vibe.

13. John’s Grill

What to Photograph: The vintage ambiance of this historic restaurant, famous for its ties to The Maltese Falcon.

Instagram Tip: Highlight the classic details like the old signage or the interior’s timeless charm.

14. Seasonal Decorations and Events

What to Photograph: Holiday lights, the Macy’s holiday windows, and pop-up art installations like Union Square in Bloom or Winter Walk.

Instagram Tip: Look for festive details like ornaments or floral arrangements to add seasonal flair to your photos.

15. Gump’s San Francisco

What to Photograph: The opulent window displays and elegant interior of this historic luxury goods store.

Instagram Tip: Take a detailed shot of the intricate window designs or capture the store’s regal charm inside.

Pro Tips for Great Photos in Union Square

Time of Day: Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers the best natural light for capturing the area’s beauty.
Perspective: Experiment with different angles, like shooting upward for architectural shots or getting low for dynamic street views.
Editing: Enhance your photos with apps like Lightroom or VSCO to bring out the vibrant colors and details.

Literature

San Francisco’s Union Square isn a place that has been referenced in some famous novels, making it a must-visit for book lovers and history buffs alike. Over the years, the neighborhood’s streets, historic landmarks and iconic businesses have served as the backdrop for some of the most memorable moments in literature.

Take a stroll through Union Square, and you’ll find yourself in the world of The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett. John’s Grill, where Sam Spade famously dines on chops, baked potatoes, and sliced tomatoes, remains a living tribute to the noir classic. Just around the corner is the timeless elegance of the Westin St. Francis Hotel and the the Flood Building are nods to the area’s role in shaping countless stories. Union Square also plays a part in Jack London’s San Francisco Stories and Frank Norris’s McTeague, highlighting the neighborhood as a symbol of the city’s ever-changing landscape.

More recently, Union Square has appeared in Armistead Maupin’s Tales of the City, reflecting the lively 1970s energy of San Francisco, and Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club, where it symbolizes the intersection of old traditions and modern life. From Vikram Seth’s poetic Golden Gate to Dave Eggers’s heartfelt memoir A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius, Union Square continues to inspire writers to capture its unique spirit.

Even today, the area celebrates its literary roots through events like Union Square in Bloom, where local poets and writers weave words that reflect the neighborhood’s charm. Whether you’re exploring its rich history or grabbing a bite at a landmark spot, Union Square offers a rare chance to step into the pages of literary greatness while experiencing some fun attractions that we love in SF.