Union Square: Hotels, Attractions, And History

You're plane has landed and you're on your way into San Francisco. When you hit the ground running, don't bother just yet with the big-name attractions, like Fishermans Wharf or the Transamerica Pyramid. The first thing you need to do is get booked into a hotel that puts you right in the center of it all. That means getting into the heart of the city and getting to Union Square.

Constructed in 1850, the square got its name from the pro-Union rallies held in solidarity with the Union forces of the American Civil War. From simple square to major rallying point to a ceremonial square, Union Square became the home of the majestic Dewey Monument in 1903. Ostensibly erected to commemorate Admiral George Dewey's victory at the Battle of Manila Bay, the monument has become as emblematic of Old San Fran as the Transamerica Pyramid.

Union Square is now the ceremonial center of San Francisco, playing host to the yearly New Year's Eve celebrations. Modeled to some extent on New York's Times Square, Union Square is the closest most people on the west coast can get to that Eastern city extravaganza. There is a reason why San Francisco has been hailed as the "Paris of the West."

With a hotel room off of the square you can conquer all seven square miles of the City That Knows How. Fabulous shopping, delicious cafes, and endless hours of people watching are yours to be had. In fact, Macy's flagship store dominates the square, keeping the idea of going on a spending spree constantly on your mind. The Union Square stop on the BART rail brings the entirety of the Bay Area to your disposal.

More experienced -- and frugal -- travelers would have you stay closer to the Financial District or perhaps across the Bay in Berkeley, the key to enjoying San Francisco is proximity. With a cozy base of operation off the square you are well on your way to enjoying the shopping, the food and the nightlife of the city. Did I mention the theater? It just so happens that Union Square is the heart of San Francisco's theater district. So much to do and see and so little time.

Article Source: TravelFreeGuides.com

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Finding affordable Union Square hotels is no small feat. At the Villa Florence, however, you'll find the perfect blend of affordable accommodations and world-class amenities.

by: William Holliday

Total views: 0 Word Count: 376 Date: Wed, 18 Aug 2010 Time: 4:30 AM - 0 comments

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