The charming downtown area of San Anselmo is complete with numerous galleries, creek-side cafes, restaurants and antique shops. Several stone, castle-like buildings sit atop Ross Valley on a knoll, giving residents beautiful surroundings to admire on a morning or evening stroll. Readers of Marin County’s Sunset Magazine voted San Anselmo as the “Best in the West” for antiquing. Aside from its many boutiques, San Anselmo’s attractions include the Carnegie Library, the Robson-Harrington Park and the American Legion Log Cabin.
San Anselmo’s rich sense of community makes it easy for visitors to feel right at home. San Anselmo’s extensive history has contributed greatly to the 130 antique dealers that have set up shop in downtown Anselmo, along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard. You’ll find everything from 1930s furniture to vintage wedding gowns, old maps and more. San Anselmo Avenue in downtown San Anselmo is the place to hang out, dine and shop with friends and family. Below is a list of some of the most popular and unique shops along San Anselmo Avenue.
A favorite among locals, Shadows on San Anselmo Avenue offers vintage bridal gowns, accessories and antiques. Locals love this shop’s incredibly low prices, unique garments and comfortable atmosphere. If you happen to be looking for a truly unique wedding gown that will turn heads without hurting your wallet, Shadows gives you the opportunity to try on dresses in a setting similar to your grandmother’s attic.
Shadows
Address: 429 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 94960
Phone: (415) 459-0574
In the middle of downtown is the cozy and charming Whytes Booksmith on San Anselmo Avenue. This bookstore has new and used books, a huge children’s section and fantastic recommendations by the friendly staff. Because of its convenient location, locals love to meander through this store often—whether they’re looking for an obscure book title or just want to get out of the rain.
Whytes Booksmith
Address: 615 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 94979
Phone: (615) 459-7372
Snag some stylish and one-of-a-kind gifts from the Fig Garden on San Anselmo Avenue. Known for carrying a lovely selection of unique jewelry, hair accessories, stationery and candles; this shop is filled with treasures you could only find in Paris! Locals love the funky clothing options and variety of moleskin journals.
Fig Garden
Address: 421 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 94960
Phone: (415) 457-9443
A popular, modern-fashion clothing store for women on San Anselmo Avenue is Kismet. It has an impressive selection of denim, dresses, slacks, blouses and a friendly, helpful staff that is enthusiastic about fashion. Located right across the street from a café, this boutique is perfect for finding that “little black dress” or casual outfit for strolling through town.
Kismet
Address: 601 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo CA 94960
Phone: (415) 454-2629
Wine lovers will adore Ludwig’s Fine Wine on San Anselmo Avenue, a small shop selling beer, wine, liquor and tobacco. The selection is far more extensive than any other shop in town, and the prices keep locals returning to try other wines and champagnes. Stop on in for a bottle of California table wine to take back to your hotel.
Ludwig’s Fine Wine
Address: 431 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo, CA 94960
Phone: (415) 456-1820
Want to explore San Anselmo culture or spend a day relaxing in a salon on San Anselmo Avenue? Visit San Anselmo art galleries and San Anselmo beauty salons.
You can visit the San Anselmo Chamber of Commerce here.
