Many of the locals already know that Union Square is one of the best places to shop in San Francisco, but in case you don’t, you should run, not walk to Union Square. It’s heaven for your shopping addiction. The name Union Square is in reference to the park that borders the main streets of the square; Geary, Post, Powell, and Stockton Streets. Though some renovation has taken place over time, and some still to come, retail is back up in Union Square and it has once again become "the" place to shop.
It is also a great meeting spot to begin to see the city when you have friends and families come to visit you. There are plenty of places to eat, both for long conversation filled dinners or short business lunches. There are even occasional dance and music performances. You can’t forget the famed Macy’s holiday tree that rolls in during the holiday season. There really is something for everyone here!
As you stroll along the streets in Union Square you’ll come across some fine art galleries as well as galleries that exhibit their work rather than selling it. New stores are popping up every day with specialized boutiques of every flavor and the streets are alive with people looking for entertainment.
When it comes to the shopping itself, Union Square offers both upscale retailers as well as big named stores such as H&M, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom’s, Saks, and Bloomingdale’s. Stores account for almost 125,000 square feet of Union Square with more retailers coming in all the time. The luxury stores are rivaled by the very popular fast fashion stores that sell their clothes at a price than anyone can afford. It gives the people shopping here the best of both worlds.
Union Square is such an amazing place, not only because of all the wonderful stores set in one unique district, but because even if you don’t want to shop you can just pull up a bench and do some people watching. On a beautiful day, you'll find tons of people eating lunch on the grass or just enjoying each other’s company at a cafe.
Getting Here
Union Square is very easy to get to by way of the Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason cable cars that serve Powell Street in Union Square. There are also numerous trolley and bus lines up and down the streets of Union Square. The Muni Metro is even planning an extension of their metro system to include Union Square to be completed by 2016. You don’t particularly want to drive because not only is it hard to find a spot, but if you park in the garage, you’ll end up handing over a hefty amount of cash for a couple of hours.
No matter how you get there, just get there! It is an amazing array of shops and department stores that will be sure to leave your wallet light but your bags heavy.
Julia Roberts made Nob Hill famous in the movie Dying Young, but many of the locals of San Francisco already knew about this neighborhood’s wonderful and quaint streets. Renowned for its landmarks and the famous hotels, Nob Hill offers a plethora of unexpected delights. The neighborhood is as much known for its character as it is for the shops and restaurants that adorn it. With the vintage barber shops, corner shops, and nightclubs that seem frozen in time, there is so much to see and do in Nob Hill.
Luxury hotels also dot the landscaping as well as some of the most historic buildings in San Francisco. You don’t have to be a famous person to enjoy this neighborhood though. You’ll find many of the younger people of San Francisco flocking to Nob Hill to enjoy the fabulous apartment buildings and beautiful architecture. Bordered by Polk, Mason, Post, and Washington Streets it isn’t difficult to realize when you’ve reached Nob Hill.
The largest Episcopal Church – Grace Cathedral Episcopal Church – still rises with its entire gothic splendor. With the stained glass and bronze doors you’ll feel like you’re in heaven when you walk by and see this stunning architectural delight. After taking a walk through the church you can experience some of your cities history at the Cable Car Museum. San Francisco has the only operating cable car system in the world, and if you want to fit right into your city you should know the facts about this wonderful mode of transportation. If you get a little tired, take a rest in the heart of Nob Hill at Huntington Park. This pubic park has shady benches that are perfect for reading a good book and catching up with friends from the city.
The shopping is one of a kind – literally. Vintage book shops, a gallery for artisan crafts, and even a sneaker shop run by a former pro skater give you the ability to walk into stores that haven’t been taken over by large corporations and big money. The shops cater to some of the eccentric and most unique customers and there is something to be found by everyone. Whether it is dignified, vintage, punk, or modern…you’ll find it.
Before you end your day in the prime neighborhood of San Francisco don’t forget to enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the premiere restaurants. Whether you are looking for French, Italian, or old world cuisine the restaurants here are better than some of the 5 star dining around the world.
Going to Nob Hill is a must for a San Francisco resident. It is quieter than many of the more popular areas that tourists come to, and it gives you a feel that you really are at home here. The residents are welcoming and polite, and the atmosphere is truly one of the best around.
This little city by the bay is well-known for beauty, style, and elegant romance. Romantic date ideas abound and the charm of this busy, yet beautiful city will help love take root and blossom.
Situated between both virgin forests and the San Francisco Bay, the natural world plays a strong part in the city’s culture. Also, as home to the sort of quality establishments one would expect of such a fine city, San Francisco is ideal for all manners of romance.
Aquarium
The Aquarium of the Bay is located by Pier 39 and houses some of the most beautiful underwater displays in the world. Take your date and let the beauty and serenity of the sea creatures surround you. The Aquarium offers not only an opportunity to see the bay and its creatures, but also a chance to help save the bay. Nothing is more special than trying to save the world together. This is the most beautiful and philanthropic of the romantic date ideas you may ever have.
Winery
Grab your girl and head out of the city into the hills to experience the Sonoma and Napa Valley wineries. Share this romantic date idea with your girl as you head out to sample some of the finest wines in the world and see the wine making process from start to finish. Stroll through the vineyards and enjoy the rolling hills and bright California sun. Smile as you watch the wine bring warmth to your dates rosy cheeks and to your heart.
Twin Peaks
For a romantic overlook head out to Twin Peaks. This point is above the city and you can see for miles. Listen to soft songs on the radio while you gave out at the Bay Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge. Whisper sweet nothings in her ear and share a kiss above all of the hustle and bustle of the city below.
Golden Gate Park
For a lushly romantic date idea, take your date to Golden Gate Park. Broad expanses of green call out for picnics or quiet strolls. Visit the Japanese Tea Garden for quiet serenity or take a ride on the carousel for a quaint throw back to more peaceful times. Golden Gate Park is also adjacent to the striking Golden Gate Bridge which is a classic destination for tourists and San Francisco residents alike.
So you managed to survive the first date and now you want to plan something fun for the second. What do you do on those in between dates, anyway?
The weather is breezy and the day is perfect to take your date out for a day of fun. Fun date ideas are easy to come by in San Francisco, and the exciting urban activities blend well with the surrounding natural world.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Experience all of San Francisco in a single place. The Wharf is chock full of street performers, novelty and eccentric shops as well as some of the best clam chowder and sourdough bread the city has to offer. Add Fisherman’s Wharf to your list of fun date ideas and you won’t be disappointed. Go for the food, the fun, and even the smells. The sea lions on Pier 39 will entertain you for hours before you head over to Ghirardelli square for a sundae. Yes, the Wharf is a bit touristy, but that is all part of the fun!
Alcatraz Island
Do you want to see a true piece of American history? If your girl is up for unusually fun date ideas, take her to Alcatraz Island and sample the life led by some of the nation’s worst criminals. Al Capone and other famous wrong-doers existed for years in this dank location. Tours are led by well-versed guides, some of whom were residents of the Rock before it was shut down. Envision yourself behind bars together or plan an escape attempt. If nothing else, the cool breeze will encourage you to huddle together for warmth, and that is always a good thing.
Chinatown
San Francisco has the largest Chinatown outside of Asia. For a dose of history and a strong ethnic flavor, head over the Chinatown for some fun date ideas. Browse through the unique wares of traditional Chinese shops, or stop over for authentic cuisine. Festivals and events are frequent to celebrate important days in the Chinese year or for the fun of it. Take the famous cable car through Chinatown for an overall sample, and hop off to explore the area more thoroughly.
Muir Woods
Experience the ancient world by standing or hiking beneath the virgin redwood trees in this forest just north of the city. Famous for not only beauty, but for a history riddled with political and diplomatic figures, Muir Woods is perfect for naturally fun date ideas. Take a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike with your girl as you marvel and the majestic scenery and completely escape from the busy city you’ve left behind for the day.
Many of the locals already know that Union Square is one of the best places to shop in San Francisco, but in case you don’t, you should run, not walk to Union Square. It’s heaven for your shopping addiction. The name Union Square is in reference to the park that borders the main streets of the square; Geary, Post, Powell, and Stockton Streets. Though some renovation has taken place over time, and some still to come, retail is back up in Union Square and it has once again become "the" place to shop.
This little city by the bay is well-known for beauty, style, and elegant romance. Romantic date ideas abound and the charm of this busy, yet beautiful city will help love take root and blossom.
So you managed to survive the first date and now you want to plan something fun for the second. What do you do on those in between dates, anyway?