The iconic and beloved San Francisco cable car system, in service since 1873, has remained in operation more for nostalgic purpose than practicality since the 1950s; just 17 miles of track remain in the beloved City by the Bay. The hum of the haulage cables and distinct ringing of different bells as the cars run up and down city streets is as much a part of the San Francisco soundscape as the colorful cable cars and drivers are of the landscape; locals continue to utilize the service as a convenient means of getting to work and around the hilly city and a cable car ride is on just about every visitor’s agenda! If your travel group has a full itinerary and waiting in line or hiking blocks for a ride doesn’t work for everyone, a stop in at the Cable Car Museum is a must during your San Francisco holiday. This free museum in the Nob Hill neighborhood is part of the complex that houses the power house and car depot and allows visitors to experience the impressive mechanics behind the ride; established in 1974, it’s open year-round and showcases historical and explanatory exhibits on the San Francisco Cable Car System-which is, itself, a fine working museum! A fascinating collection of vintage cars and memorabilia to peruse at your own pace provide a real sense of bygone days; a wonderful gift shop, car-seat photo op and old fashioned penny machine offer perfect mementos of your foray into the very heart of this historical means of transportation; why not buy your own bells and have a group ringing challenge?
Exploring America > U.S. Cities > San Francisco Tours
