Musée Mécanique: A Nostalgic Journey Through Mechanical Entertainment
Experience a nostalgic journey through entertainment history at San Francisco's Musée Mécanique, featuring 300+ playable vintage arcade games & artifacts.
The Musée Mécanique, located on Pier 45 at Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco, is a captivating interactive museum featuring a vast collection of 20th-century penny arcade games and mechanical artifacts. With over 300 machines, many still playable, it offers a unique glimpse into the history of mechanical entertainment.
A brief summary to Musée Mécanique
- Pier 45, San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf, CA, 94133, US
- +1415-346-2000
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
- Thursday 10 am-8 pm
- Friday 10 am-8 pm
- Saturday 10 am-8 pm
- Sunday 10 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Bring quarters to fully enjoy the interactive experience and play the various vintage arcade games and mechanical instruments.
- Visit during weekday mornings to avoid the larger crowds that gather on weekends and afternoons.
- Take care when operating the machines, as many are delicate and vintage.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, the F-Line streetcar provides a direct and scenic route to Fisherman's Wharf. The streetcar runs along Market Street to the Ferry Building, then continues along the Embarcadero to Pier 45. Alternatively, several bus lines, including the 15, 19, 30, 32, and 42, stop near Fisherman's Wharf. From the East Bay, take BART to Embarcadero Station and transfer to the F-Line. From Marin County, Golden Gate Ferry Service operates ferries to the Ferry Building; transfer to the F-Line from there. A single ride on Muni (bus, streetcar, or cable car) costs $3. Cable car fares are $8 per ride. BART fares vary depending on the distance traveled.
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Walking
From Pier 39, Musée Mécanique is a pleasant 9-minute walk. Head west along the Embarcadero, following the waterfront. Pier 45 will be on your left. From the Ferry Building, the walk is approximately 1.6 miles and takes about 31 minutes. Head north along the Embarcadero, enjoying the views of the bay.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services offer a convenient way to reach Musée Mécanique. A taxi from downtown San Francisco to Fisherman's Wharf typically costs $14-$17 and takes about 6 minutes. From the Ferry Building, expect to pay $11-$14 for a 4-minute ride.
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Driving
If driving, approach Fisherman's Wharf via Bay Street or North Point Street. Parking is available in several garages and lots in the area, but it can be expensive and availability may be limited. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay $15-$52 for hourly parking. Some nearby parking options include the Pier 39 Garage (175 Beach St) and the North Point Centre Garage (350 Bay St). Be aware of the potential for car break-ins in the area.
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