Stonestown Galleria

Stonestown Galleria Visiting Hours, Tickets, and San Francisco Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Stonestown Galleria, located in the southwestern part of San Francisco, is more than a shopping center—it’s a historic and cultural landmark that has continuously adapted to the evolving needs of its community. From its post-World War II beginnings to its current redevelopment, Stonestown’s journey reflects San Francisco’s broader story of growth, innovation, and community resilience. This guide details everything you need to know about visiting Stonestown Galleria, including its history, current facilities, visiting hours, accessibility, ongoing redevelopment, and nearby attractions.

For the most up-to-date information and event announcements, consult the official Stonestown Galleria and redevelopment websites (SFGate, Brookfield Properties, sfplanning.org).

Introduction
Stonestown Galleria: Origins and Historical Significance
Evolution and Redevelopment
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Getting There and Transportation
Nearby Attractions
Community Impact and Events
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Next Steps
References

Stonestown Galleria: Origins and Historical Significance

Stonestown Galleria’s story began in the late 1940s, when the Stoneson brothers, Henry and Ellis, envisioned a modern retail center to serve San Francisco’s growing residential communities. Construction commenced in 1949, and the Stonestown Shopping Center officially opened in July 1952 (SF Chronicle). Its original design featured an open-air layout anchored by The Emporium, a prominent local department store, along with tenants like Woolworth’s and Walgreens.

Strategically situated near San Francisco State University and the Parkmerced residential complex, Stonestown quickly became a commercial and social hub. It reflected the mid-century trend toward suburban retail and set a precedent for future shopping developments in the region.

Over the years, Stonestown adapted to changing consumer preferences. In 1987, a major renovation enclosed the mall, added a second level, and introduced a glass-domed atrium, rebranding the site as Stonestown Galleria (SFGate). This transformation brought in new anchor stores like Nordstrom and Macy’s, expanding the mall’s retail and dining offerings.

Evolution and Redevelopment

21st Century Transformations

In recent years, Stonestown Galleria has embraced significant changes to remain relevant amid a rapidly shifting retail landscape. The closures of anchor stores such as Nordstrom (2019) and Macy’s (2018) paralleled national trends in department store downsizing (SF Business Times). Brookfield Properties acquired the mall in 2017 and launched a redevelopment strategy aimed at transforming Stonestown into a mixed-use, experience-driven destination (Brookfield Properties).

Key redevelopment features include:

Conversion of former anchor spaces into new venues (e.g., Target, Whole Foods, Sports Basement).
Introduction of “The Food Emporium,” a curated food court highlighting diverse local cuisine.
Ongoing upgrades to architecture, lighting, and wayfinding to enhance visitor experience.

Stonestown Reimagined

The approved Stonestown Reimagined project will transform 27 acres of surface parking into a vibrant “town center,” adding up to 3,500 new housing units (including affordable options), nearly 160,000 square feet of retail, 96,000 square feet for services, and six acres of new parks and plazas (sfplanning.org, SocketSite). The long-term, multi-phase redevelopment will include improved pedestrian, bike, and transit connections, new structured parking, and enhanced community facilities.

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Mall Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- (Individual store hours may vary)
Admission:
- Free entry; no tickets required.
- Some events or entertainment venues may charge separate fees.
Accessibility:
- Fully ADA-compliant: elevators, ramps, accessible restrooms, and parking.
- Wheelchair access and designated seating areas available.
Parking:
- Over 3,800 existing spaces, with expanded structured parking planned to accommodate up to 4,861 vehicles during redevelopment (SocketSite).
- Accessible and family-friendly parking zones.

Getting There and Transportation

Public Transit:
- Served by the Muni Metro M line (Stonestown station) and several bus routes (SFMTA).
By Car:
- Easily accessible from 19th Avenue; ample on-site parking.
Cycling/Walking:
- Bike racks and pedestrian-friendly pathways on-site and in surrounding neighborhoods.
Future Improvements:
- Redevelopment will add new bike/pedestrian paths and improve connections to nearby transit and San Francisco State University (Golden Gate Xpress).

Nearby Attractions

San Francisco State University:
- Adjacent to the mall, offering cultural events and campus tours.
Lake Merced:
- Scenic spot for walking, bird-watching, and outdoor activities.
San Francisco Zoo:
- Family-friendly destination just south of the mall.
Parkmerced Neighborhood:
- Residential area with parks and walking paths.
Sherman Beach:
- Accessible by a short drive; ideal for coastal walks.

Community Impact and Events

Stonestown Galleria has long played an important role as a community anchor. Its proximity to educational institutions and residential neighborhoods makes it a gathering place for students, families, and locals. The mall hosts seasonal festivals (e.g., Lumpia Fest), pop-up markets, art exhibitions, and cultural celebrations (Funcheap SF), fostering a vibrant multicultural environment.

The redevelopment project is expected to generate significant economic opportunities, with hundreds of construction jobs annually and new long-term employment in retail, hospitality, and property management (NBC Bay Area). Community engagement remains central to the planning process, with ongoing meetings to address concerns about traffic, building heights, and neighborhood character.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Stonestown Galleria’s visiting hours?

Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM. Store hours may vary.

Is there an admission fee or are tickets required?

No, entry is free. Certain events or entertainment venues may charge separate fees.

How do I get there by public transit?

Take the Muni Metro M line to Stonestown station or use connecting bus routes.

Is the mall accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, full ADA compliance including elevators, ramps, and accessible parking.

Is parking available?

Yes, ample parking is provided, with expanded structured garages under redevelopment.

Are there dining options?

Yes, “The Food Emporium” food court and a variety of restaurants are available.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Stonestown Galleria stands as a testament to San Francisco’s adaptability and community spirit. As it evolves into a modern, mixed-use neighborhood through the Stonestown Reimagined project, visitors can look forward to enhanced shopping, dining, recreation, and community amenities. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Stonestown offers a rich blend of history, culture, and convenience.

Plan your visit today—check the latest updates on visiting hours, parking, and events on the official Stonestown Galleria website and the redevelopment portal. For real-time news and guided experiences, download the Audiala app and follow Stonestown Galleria on social media.