San Francisco Cable Car Museum: A Tribute to an Icon
Discover the history and mechanics of San Francisco's iconic cable cars at this free Nob Hill museum. A tribute to a beloved transportation system.
Explore the history and mechanics of San Francisco's iconic cable cars at this free museum in Nob Hill. See historic cars, the powerhouse, and learn about the system's evolution.
A brief summary to San Francisco Cable Car Museum
- 1201 Mason St, San Francisco, Nob Hill, California, 94108, US
- +1415-474-1887
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds.
- Take the Powell-Hyde or Powell-Mason cable car lines to get to the museum.
- Check out the museum's gift shop for cable car souvenirs, books, and even genuine cable car bells.
- Descend to the lower level to see the cables and winding machinery in action.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, the easiest way to reach the Cable Car Museum is by taking the Muni. Several bus lines, including the 1, 12, 30, and 45, stop near the museum. Alternatively, you can take the Powell-Hyde or Powell-Mason cable car lines directly to the museum. A single ride on the cable car costs $8.
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Walking
The Cable Car Museum is located at 1201 Mason Street in the Nob Hill neighborhood. From Union Square, walk north on Powell Street, then turn left onto California Street. Walk several blocks uphill to Mason Street, then turn right. The museum will be on your left. Be prepared for steep hills.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout San Francisco. A taxi from Union Square to the Cable Car Museum typically costs $11-$14 and takes approximately 4 minutes. Note that during peak hours, prices may be higher.
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Driving
Driving to the Cable Car Museum is possible, but parking in the area is limited and can be expensive. Street parking is difficult to find. Several parking garages are located within a few blocks of the museum, including the Fairmont Hotel Parking at 950 Mason Street. Parking rates at nearby garages typically start at $30 for 2 hours.
Discover more about San Francisco Cable Car Museum
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