San Francisco may be a young city, but its literary history is internationally recognized due to its classic authors and rebellious movements. It began during the Gold Rush, which brought many transplants to the city in search of new wealth, opportunities, and ideas. In 1849, a man named John Hamilton Still created the city's first bookstore on Portsmouth Square in Chinatown to serve the city’s suddenly swelling population. While that store no longer exists, it started a new wave of booksellers striving to create something new and important in the growing city.

As the city's art scene and inclusive nature began to be recognized nationwide, many authors arrived in hope of striking literary gold. One great example is Mark Twain, although he quickly left the city after getting fired from his journalism job. Native writers like Jack London, author of The Call of the Wild and White Fang, brought nationwide attention to the then-small city due to their relentless political activism and brilliant stories. 

The Beat movement, which focused on non-conformity and liberal ideals, has strong roots in San Francisco, including Jack Kerouac's famous time in North Beach and the City Lights bookstore's infamous role in obscenity trials and the spreading of Beat literature. Today, San Francisco continues to be praised for its arts scene and immense creativity. To get to the pulse of the city's cherished literary past, check out these top historic bookstores to see where it all began and for some great new books to read!

Photo by City Lights

City Lights

With a fascinating history and jaw-dropping selection, City Lights remains San Francisco's quintessential bookstore. The store was opened in 1953 by the renowned author Lawrence Ferlinghetti and it initially focused on bringing underground and revolutionary literature to the masses. It's also unique in being both a bookstore and publisher, becoming famous across America after publishing Howl and Other Poems by Allen Ginsberg. The collection spawned an obscenity trial and newfound recognition for the once small-time store.

Today, it continues to remain influential with its combination of localized publishing and international selection plus a political activism that feels right at home in San Francisco. Plus, its great location on Columbus Avenue and Broadway is a great starting point for exploring North Beach and Chinatown. You can make the most out of the day by also checking out the nearby Beat Museum and eclectic cafes.

Modern Times

Located on 24th Street n the famous Mission District, Modern Times is a bookstore with a great selection and uniquely San Franciscan history. The store opened in 1971 as an activist bookstore that catered to those disillusioned with the Vietnam War and societal turmoil. While many similar bookstores eventually closed down, Modern Times moved to its current location, expanded their inventory, and now features everything from new best sellers to used classics, rare collections, and political works that feel right at home in the Bay.

Photo by 9131 Images

Green Apple Books

Located on Clement Street in the calm and beautiful Richmond District, Green Apple Books is one of San Francisco's most cherished independent booksellers. Opening in 1967, the store features a wonderful selection of new releases, indie favorites, and little-known classics. Best of all, the store is stunningly quaint and welcoming with an old-school aesthetic that can't be found in large chain stores.

Argonaut Book Shop

Located on Sutter Street in the hilly and scenic Nob Hill neighborhood, Argonaut Book Shop specializes in rare and antique books with a focus on Californian and West Coast history. Founded in 1941, the store continues to please professional collectors and newcomers alike with its profound collection and welcoming attitude. Whether you want to find a rare and historic item or just want to browse, Argonaut Book Shop is full of interesting books that you won’t find anywhere else.