8 Neighborhoods

Perfect for Holiday Shopping in the Bay Area

Ringed by hotels and theaters, with the Powell Street cable car running up its western flank, Union Square is as much a shopping Mecca as a public plaza. Prominent department stores such as Macy’s and Neiman Marcus command outsized attention, but other savvy high-profile stores have given the retail-rich neighborhood a fresh gloss. Premier luxury boutiques (Prada, Burberry and Dior) and shopping experiences like CH Carolina Herrera, St. John Knits and Cuyana keep Union Square on top of most San Francisco shoppers’ list. 

Yes, PIER 39 is San Francisco’s top visitor attraction. And, yes, the sea lions are very popular. But PIER 39 also offers more than 60 specialty shops throughout two levels. While the kids explore the Aquarium of the Bay or take a boat ride on the Blue & Gold Fleet, you can pick up Nautical Antiques at Frank's Fisherman or find wooden puzzles and games at Solve It!. There’s even a shop just for left-handers! If you have a thing for the beach, check out Shell Cellar, where you'll find shells and unique jewelry. Looking for that perfect San Francisco gift? Look no further than Only in San Francisco.

In the Mission District, thriving retail can be found in Valencia Street thrift shops and specialized bookstores. Check out uber-hip boutiques like Aggregate Supply, or vintage focused No Shop. Peruse terrariums and taxidermy at Paxton Gate, and explore affordable fashion staples at Everlane. If you want something really niche, check out the Japanese denim at Self Edge, or fine fragrances at The Ministry of Scent. Off of Valencia Street, you'll find local shops Creativity Explored and Mission Art 415, among the best for great San Francisco artworks, and Sports Basement, the perfect spot to find something for that outdoorsy person in your life. 

If you're looking for quirky and vintage gifts this holiday season, Haight-Asbury is your one-stop shop. Everything tie-dye from Love on Haight, 1960s vintage style clothing from Held Over, and collector's vinyls from Amoeba Music are just some of the treasures you'll find in the neighborhood.

While it's famed for its long history of jazz, the Fillmore is also known for unique shops, both vintage and luxury. From cultural gifts and hand-crafted products at Cottage Industry to the trendiest fashions at  L'Appartement Sézane  and Intermix, you can find a gift for just about anyone and any taste in the Fillmore's nine blocks of shops.

From its commanding center spot along the Embarcadero, the Ferry Building offers a great place to shop for gifts while supporting farmers, small businesses and specialty shops. Ferry Building vendors sell a variety of fresh produce, coffee, and goods, making it a perfect place to find gifts for every foodie. It is widely acclaimed for its fresh products and artisan goods from shops like Epicurean Trader, Dandelion Chocolate, and many others. Don't miss the Ferry Building Farmers Market on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.