Where to go shopping in San Francisco

San Francisco, the iconic City by the Bay, is one of the United States' great cities to explore. This hilly California location is surrounded by incredible scenery, including the famous Golden Gate Bridge that defines San Francisco to this day.

Of course, San Francisco has been many things over its long history. A goldrush town built partly on immigration from across the Pacific, it transformed itself into a center of countercultural revolution in the 1960s and is now a glitzy tech hub where captains of industry from nearby Silicon Valley send property prices soaring.

And through it all, San Francisco retains its unique charm. You can see that in its retail environment just as easily as you can everywhere else.

San Francisco is awash with money, so you'll find plenty of luxury boutiques offering both international fashion brands and the work of local designers. At the same time, it's also a great place for vintage shopping, with tons of independent boutiques and lively markets offering something more unique. Famous locations like Haight Street are a treasure trove of independent retailers, and you'll find the work of local makers and creatives celebrated throughout the city. In other words, shopping in San Francisco is an absolute dream.

Make things easier on yourself by leaving your things behind with a Bounce luggage storage spot in San Francisco. We partner with local businesses to offer multiple locations throughout the city so that you can leave the bags behind while you go shopping or enjoy the fantastic dining that San Francisco is famous for.

All you need to know when shopping in San Francisco

Shopping in San Francisco is as unique as the city itself. Traveling from one area of the city to the other allows you to not only see more of the place but also gives you a completely different retail experience. Whether you're looking for an upscale gift shop, a fashion boutique, an independent bookstore like Green Apple Books, or a well-known high-street retailer that can give you some affordable additions to your wardrobe, you'll find it here. Plus, there are plenty of outdoor cafés, restaurants, and bars where you can take a break anytime you like on your shopping excursion.

Shopping architecture

San Francisco’s shopping districts range from upscale malls and bustling streets in the Civic Center to bohemian neighborhoods and vibrant markets.

• Union Square: The heart of the city’s shopping scene, featuring luxury brands, department stores, and trendy boutiques. This is where you'll find the brands you know and love, but also some more independent retailers offering everything from high-end stationary to luxurious cashmere sweaters.
• Haight-Ashbury: Known for its vintage stores and counterculture vibe, this district offers a mix of retro fashion and unique finds. This is a great place to explore for live music and interesting food too, so spend some time shopping in what was formerly the hippie district and enjoy what it has to offer.
• Mission District: A creative hub with independent shops, artisan goods, and thrift stores. This area is known for its incredible restaurants, especially its Mexican food, so bring your appetite when you go shopping here.
• Ferry Building Marketplace: A waterfront market showcasing gourmet foods, artisan products, and local crafts. Close to the famous Fisherman's Wharf, this is another fantastic place to explore, especially for foodies and those who want to support local businesses.

Opening hours and seasonality

Most shops in San Francisco open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with shorter hours on Sundays. Local markets and independent boutiques may have varied hours.

Pricing and bargaining

Prices are fixed in most stores and malls, but some markets and independent vendors may allow for negotiation. San Francisco is not known as a particularly affordable city, so it's tempting to try and get a bargain wherever you can. Generally, you'll have more scope for negotiation at businesses that accept cash.

Shop like a local

• Bring reusable shopping bags, as San Francisco has banned single-use plastic bags. In this eco-friendly city, stylish tote bags are everywhere, so if you didn't bring one with you, pick one up to carry your new purchases.
• Use public transportation or ride-shares to navigate the city’s hilly terrain and avoid parking challenges. San Francisco's famous cable cars are fun to ride, but the city also has an extensive bus network, plus the BART that makes it easy to get to outlying areas.
• Carry cash for smaller vendors and street markets. In tech-friendly San Francisco, credit cards are accepted practically everywhere, but when it comes to negotiating with smaller retailers, cash is still king.

Unique shops to visit in San Francisco

San Francisco is home to distinctive stores that reflect its artistic and innovative spirit. These quirky shops are all about that unique West Coast vibe, and shopping in them is a great way to explore San Francisco's homegrown culture.

City Lights Booksellers & Publishers

A literary landmark, this independent bookstore in North Beach is famous for its selection of poetry, politics, and literature. It’s a must-visit for book lovers and is easily one of the most famous bookstores in the world. Although it's not the biggest bookstore around, its carefully curated selection means you're bound to find something worth reading, and may well discover new authors alongside old favorites. The store also often hosts readings and other literary events, so check the calendar to see what's going on while you're in town.

Address: 261 Columbus Ave

Paxton Gate

Located in the Mission District, this quirky shop offers taxidermy, exotic plants, and unique curiosities, blending science and art. It's a fantastic place for anyone with an interest in science and the wider world. Kids with an interest in science will feel like they're in heaven, but it's just as much fun to explore for adults looking for one-of-a-kind items that can teach us something about the world around us.

Address: 824 Valencia Street

The RealReal

A luxury consignment shop in Union Square, offering authenticated designer goods at a fraction of the price. If you're a fashionista with a strict budget, this may well be the perfect place to find haute couture at a high street price.

Address: 253 Post St

Amoeba Music

This iconic record store in Haight-Ashbury features an extensive collection of vinyl, CDs, and music memorabilia. Shop for music the old-fashioned way at this celebrated store.

Address: 1855 Haight Street

Shopping experiences in San Francisco

San Francisco’s markets and specialty stores showcase its vibrant culture and culinary excellence. Shopping at these places is more than simply buying items; it's an experience that will add a lot to your visit. Leave the bags behind with Bounce and immerse yourself in these locations.

Ferry Building Marketplace

A foodie’s paradise, the Ferry Building offers gourmet treats, artisan products, and local produce. Don’t miss the cheese and chocolate shops. Bring your appetite here, as there are so many delicious things to enjoy.

Address: 1 Ferry Building

Heath Ceramics

Known for its handcrafted pottery and tiles, this shop offers timeless designs and high-quality craftsmanship. If you're looking for unique homewares, this is one of the best places in the city to come.

Address: 2900 18th St

Bi-Rite Market

Located in the Mission District, this family-owned grocery store offers organic produce, locally sourced goods, and house-made treats. More than just a place to get groceries, it's one of the hubs of San Francisco's huge organic and locavore community and provides an insight into this side of the city.

Address: 2140 Polk St

Traditional shopping options in San Francisco

For a more conventional shopping experience, San Francisco offers upscale malls and popular shopping districts where you can get whatever you need in a single location.

Union Square

This iconic shopping district features luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Tiffany & Co., as well as department stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue. Definitely bring your wallet here!

Westfield San Francisco Centre

A downtown shopping mall offering high-street brands, luxury retailers, and dining options, plus the historic dome of the former Emporium.

Address: 865 Market St

Fillmore Street

A stylish shopping destination with a mix of designer boutiques, local shops, and cozy cafes. It’s perfect for a leisurely shopping day.

San Francisco’s shopping scene is a reflection of the city’s creativity, diversity, and flair. Whether you’re exploring luxury boutiques in Union Square, browsing vintage treasures in Haight-Ashbury, or indulging in gourmet delights at the Ferry Building Marketplace, the city offers a unique retail experience. Enhance your visit with Bounce’s luggage storage solutions available all over the city, including near San Francisco Airport, the Greyhound Station, and Golden Gate Park, to shop hands-free and enjoy San Francisco’s vibrant neighborhoods at your leisure. From high-end fashion to handcrafted goods, San Francisco guarantees a shopping adventure as unforgettable as its iconic Golden Gate Bridge.