Skip to main content
Back to all Attractions

Shopping, Dining, and Culture in San Francisco

Experience the energy of Downtown San Francisco while staying across the Bay in Alameda. Union Square places renowned shops, restaurants, theaters, art galleries, and nightlife within a walkable city setting. Ride one of San Francisco’s famous cable cars to reach additional neighborhoods and attractions, or attend seasonal celebrations such as Union Square Live and the annual tree lighting. Guests can reach San Francisco by car or enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Alameda to the Ferry Building.

City skyline with varied architecture and sunset in Oakland Alameda, CA.

Getting to San Francisco Downtown

Plan your visit

Prices

No fee

Hours

Open 365 days a year

Plan Your Itinerary

  • Union Square Live
  • Union Square SF Food + Art
  • Union Square Tree Lighting
  • Shopping
  • Dining
  • Cable Car
  • Nightclubs
  • Art Galleries
  • Theater

FAQs

Find answers to frequently asked questions and get the helpful information you need to plan your visit.

It most certainly is. From Hawthorn Suites, you'll be able to take the Oakland/Alameda Ferry. You’ll enjoy a very scenic ride on the Bay. The ferry will drop you off at the Ferry Building (not surprisingly) in San Francisco. From there, you can walk to downtown or you’ll have several transportation options. These include cable car, taxi, streetcar, subway, and, if you're tech-savvy, Uber.

You’ll find every kind of restaurant imaginable in Downtown San Francisco. Inimitable Indian cuisine can be savored at Amber India. Mouthwatering sushi and other Japanese dishes are served nightly at ANZU. Traditional Italian meals abound at Brindisi. Exceptional French food can be found at Café Claude and Café de la Presse. And if Southwestern is your culinary thing, you’ll want to check out Colibri Mexican Bistro.