Accessible Shopping in San Francisco
San Francisco's shopping scene is accessible to all. Here are some of our favorite places around the city to shop.
Whether you prefer the convenience of large malls or the charm of local shops, San Francisco businesses prioritize inclusivity for their customers. From Union Square's centralized hub with wheelchair-friendly facilities to accessible shopping corridors like Valencia, Hayes, or Columbus Streets, everyone can enjoy a delightful shopping experience in San Francisco.
San Francisco Center Mall
This mall, opposite the cable car turnaround at Powell and Market streets, is a fully accessible space with shops and restaurants. This historic building in Union Square is ADA-compliant, featuring elevators, accessible entrances, and ADA parking across the street. Accessible BART and Muni stations are directly connected to the lower level of the mall. The mall is open every day from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.
Stonestown Galleria
Although not a tourist hotspot, this mall on the western edge of San Francisco is an excellent one-stop shopping destination. It features major grocery stores, large department stores, popular brand names, and a variety of fantastic dining options. Conveniently situated off the Muni M line, reaching Stonestown is incredibly easy from Union Square and downtown. Additionally, there's ample parking available, including ADA spaces in the mall's parking lot.
Japan Center Mall
Japantown is one of San Francisco's most unique neighborhoods, offering a diverse array of shops, eateries, and entertainment venues. The entire mall, minus the arched bridge connecting the two sections, is fully accessible for anyone with mobility issues. Elevators and accessible restrooms are available throughout the mall. While the entrance is easily accessible, please note that the plaza has stone bricks, which might be uneven.
Embarcadero Center
This open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment space is easily accessible for everyone. Most shops and restaurants are located on the ground level, with additional options on the floors above. Each of the four towers features accessible elevators and escalators. Please note that many of the connecting bridges may require steps to access. Look for plenty of signs and directories throughout the center to help you navigate. Hours differ by establishment, so please check the website for each business’s operating hours.
The Ferry Building Marketplace
This iconic San Francisco landmark has been fully updated to comply with all accessibility needs. You can comfortably navigate the indoor marketplace and the outdoor weekend farmers market. Elevators are also available to access businesses and offices on the top floors if needed. The Ferry Building contains shops selling local handmade goods, local restaurants, and provides access to the various ferry landings, all of which are fully accessible. Learn more about the accessible ferry options here.
PIER 39
PIER 39, one of San Francisco's top attractions, ensures accessibility for all visitors with features such as ramps and six elevators providing access to all levels. Wander through PIER 39 to discover shops selling local handmade goods, delicious local bites, and great souvenirs. PIER 39 is open all day, but the various shops and restaurants may have varying hours. Look for signage throughout the Pier for wayfinding and accessibility assistance.
Ghirardelli Square
The historic chocolate factory has undergone significant upgrades to ensure easy movement for all visitors. Explore the plazas, shops, and restaurants for local goods, iconic treats, and the perfect souvenir to take home! Please note that each business has its own hours of operation.
Clement Street
Nestled in the Richmond District, Clement Street welcomes you with a vibrant mix of local shops, restaurants, and a year-round farmers market on Sundays. Known for its dynamic Chinese communities, this neighborhood boasts numerous unique stores offering Chinese goods, cookware, clothing, food, and more. The area has flat terrain with easily navigable sidewalks and crosswalks. While most places have accessible entrances, a few older or smaller establishments may feature narrower aisles that can be challenging to navigate. Get around the neighborhood using accessible public transit or via your own transportation.
Columbus Street
Nestled in the heart of North Beach, Columbus Street buzzes with activity. Here, you'll discover a plethora of options to shop for one-of-a-kind items, local goods, designer clothing, and more. North Beach, at the foot of Telegraph Hill, features many streets with hills. However, most major shopping areas are on the wider, flatter streets. Numerous accessible public transit stops are in the neighborhood for easy movement around the area.
Divisadero Street
This bustling corridor is brimming with great shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Explore the amazing cafes and stores selling local food, pastries, and packaged goods to take home. While Divisadero is a main road that may experience traffic, the sidewalks and crosswalks are easily accessible and relatively flat. Many accessible bus lines run through the area, making it easy to get to and from this local shopping spot.
Hayes Street
Hayes Valley, easily accessible by public transit, offers a delightful shopping experience in a flat neighborhood centered around a delightful park. Explore Hayes Street's local shops for home goods, designer clothing, and culinary delights. Please note: while most stores are fully ADA compliant, some might have a small lip or step at their entrance. Easily get around the area utilizing public transit or your own car. There are parking garages in the area, as well as limited street parking.
Haight Street
Haight Street's flat terrain ensures accessibility for everyone to enjoy window shopping and immerse themselves in Haight-Ashbury's unique character. This local hub is perfect for finding a new outfit, the ideal souvenir, or some "medicinal" products to try. While most businesses are ADA compliant, please be aware that some may have a step-up entry and narrow aisles. You can easily utilize the accessible transit lines in the neighborhood or your own vehicle. Parking is limited in this residential area.
Union Street
Explore one of SF's trendiest areas on Union Street, a haven for designer home goods, apparel, and accessories. This flat street ensures easy navigation with clear sidewalks and accessible shops. While most places adhere to ADA standards, some may have a step or threshold. Convenient Muni transportation allows for seamless travel. Don't forget to indulge in delectable bites at the fantastic restaurants along the street to recharge during your shopping spree.
Valencia Street
Explore the flat, easily navigable Mission District for a truly local shopping experience. Boasting wide, flat sidewalks, accessible crosswalks, and an array of local shops, Valencia Street offers a quintessentially San Francisco shopping adventure. Our residents are notoriously nice, so just ask shop owners and employees for any assistance. Accessible transportation hubs are conveniently located nearby at both Mission and 16th streets, as well at Mission and 24th streets.
Ninth Avenue
The Inner Sunset is a local neighborhood that demands to be explored. At the intersection of Ninth Avenue and Irving Street, you’ll find local shops, restaurants, cafes and more. This flat neighborhood is easy to navigate with almost all businesses being fully accessible. The Muni N line runs right through the neighborhood and offers easy accessible transportation to and from the neighborhood.
Aaron is the Manager of Digital & Social Media Marketing at San Francisco Travel. He has lived in San Francisco for over 10 years and has worked in Travel & Tourism for over 8 of those. He is usually exploring the Bay Area hunting for that new and unique experience and good food too!
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