Union Square San Francisco
One of the oldest squares on the West Coast, Union Square has been a natural gathering spot of for locals and tourists alike for nearly a century and a half. Regularly remodeled over the years, Union Square began as little more than a neighborhood green. Today, after another recent facelift, it is one of the premier shopping areas in the United States, as well as a venue for productions that range from fashion shows to concerts to exhibitions of art. For the most part, however, it is a great place to visit with friends, grab a bite to eat and wear out your credit card at some of San Francisco's largest department and specialty stores. Macy's, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany's, Cartier, The North Face and virtually every fashion designer are here, alongside open air flower stands and the requisite coffee shops and cafes. This is a great place to come when you are ready to get away from the tourist grind and just relax in the middle of the day.