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San Francisco Railway Museum

Discover San Francisco's captivating rail transit history at this free museum, showcasing vintage streetcars and cable cars near the iconic Ferry Building.

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Step back in time at the San Francisco Railway Museum, a tribute to the city's rich transit history. Located in the heart of the city near the Ferry Building, the museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and exhibits dedicated to streetcars, cable cars, and the evolution of urban transportation in San Francisco. Admission is free, offering an engaging and educational experience for all ages.

A brief summary to San Francisco Railway Museum

  • Tuesday 12 pm-5 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-5 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-5 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-5 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday afternoon for a less crowded experience.
  • Combine your museum visit with a ride on the F-line streetcar for a complete experience of San Francisco's historic transit.
  • Check out the gift shop for unique San Francisco railway-themed souvenirs.
  • The museum is free, but donations are appreciated to support its operation.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Ferry Building, cross the street and walk along the Embarcadero towards Pier 14. Turn right onto Steuart Street. The museum is located on the left side of the street, a short walk from the intersection.

  • Public Transport

    Take the F-line streetcar to the Steuart Street stop, which is directly in front of the museum. Alternatively, take any Muni Metro line (J, K, L, M, N, T) or BART to the Embarcadero Station. Exit the station and walk one block to the end of Market Street, then half a block down Steuart Street to the museum. A single ride on Muni costs $3.00, or $2.50 with a Clipper card. A day pass costs $5.70.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A short ride from downtown hotels to the museum will typically cost between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand. There is no dedicated taxi stand at the museum, but drop-off and pick-up are easily accessible on Steuart Street.

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Discover more about San Francisco Railway Museum

The San Francisco Railway Museum is a charming and informative museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating San Francisco's unique rail transit history. Operated by the non-profit Market Street Railway, the museum focuses on the positive impact of streetcars and cable cars on the city's urban landscape. Inside, visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including a full-sized replica of a 1911 streetcar motorman's platform, offering a hands-on experience of what it was like to operate these historic vehicles. The museum also features unique historical artifacts, rarely seen archival photographs, and engaging audio-visual displays that bring the past to life. Exhibits highlight the development and cultural significance of urban transportation in San Francisco, with a focus on streetcars and cable cars. The museum is located across from the Ferry Building, making it easily accessible to both locals and tourists. It serves as a perfect complement to a ride on the F-line historic streetcars, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the history of these iconic vehicles. The museum also features a gift shop with unique San Francisco souvenirs and memorabilia, including items celebrating the cable car's 150th anniversary.

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