There’s no experience quite like riding a San Francisco cable car. These charming, open-air vehicles have become synonymous with the city itself, representing its unique character and rich history, much like the Golden Gate Bridge with its striking International Orange hue. San Francisco proudly holds the distinction of being the birthplace of cable cars, a revolutionary transportation system invented 150 years ago. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1964, the San Francisco Cable Cars are meticulously maintained and operated by the city, ensuring their continued legacy for generations to come.
Join the celebration of this iconic mode of transport and experience San Francisco through the eyes of history, guided by the city’s dedicated team of professional operators, mechanics, and carpenters who keep these treasures running smoothly.
Navigating the City on a Cable Car
Embarking on a San Francisco cable car adventure is remarkably easy. Three distinct cable car lines await, each offering a unique perspective of the city. Two lines originate at the bustling intersection of Powell and Market Streets, whisking passengers towards the vibrant Fisherman’s Wharf area. The third line commences at California and Market Streets, offering a scenic route towards Van Ness Avenue.
To begin your journey, head to the cable car turntables, located at the starting and ending points of each route. Alternatively, keep an eye out for the distinctive brown-and-white cable car signposts scattered throughout the city, marking designated boarding locations.
For detailed route maps and up-to-date schedules, please consult the resources below or conveniently download the MuniMobile® app to effortlessly plan your San Francisco cable car experience:
Purchasing Your Cable Car Tickets
To maximize your time and bypass potential queues, it is highly recommended to pre-purchase your San Francisco cable car fares. Utilize the convenient MuniMobile® app or opt for a Clipper® Card for seamless travel.
Please note that for boarding cable cars at key locations such as Powell & Market, Bay & Taylor, and Hyde & Beach Streets, advance fare purchase is mandatory between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. daily.
For detailed pricing information regarding single-trip cable car tickets, please refer to cable car single trips can be found here.. If you plan on extensive travel throughout the day, consider acquiring a visitor Passport visitor Passport, offering unlimited rides.
Explore these convenient payment options:
MuniMobile®: San Francisco’s official ticketing app, MuniMobile, provides instant ticket purchasing via credit/debit card, PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
Clipper® Card: Clipper is your all-in-one transit solution for the entire Bay Area. Use your Clipper card for seamless travel on all major transit systems, including San Francisco’s Muni.
Cash: Exact change is required for cash payments.
For comprehensive details regarding all San Francisco cable car ticket options, please visit our dedicated Fares page.
Essential Tips for Riding San Francisco Cable Cars
- Embrace the Excitement: San Francisco’s dynamic streets and dramatic hills contribute to a thrilling cable car ride. Hold on firmly! If standing and holding onto the exterior poles, refrain from leaning outwards for your safety.
- Exiting with Care: Always wait for the cable car to come to a complete stop before attempting to exit. Exercise caution and check for surrounding street traffic as you step off. Remember to stop, look, and listen attentively before crossing any cable car intersections. Be aware that the green “X” traffic signal is designated for cable cars, not pedestrians.
- Bicycle Restrictions: Full-size bicycles and folding bikes are not permitted on San Francisco cable cars. If traveling with a bicycle, please explore alternative Muni routes other Muni routes that accommodate bicycles.
- Service Animal Policy: Service animals are warmly welcomed to ride within the interior section of the cable car, either on their owner’s lap or positioned discreetly out of the aisle. If riding in the exterior sections, service animals must remain securely on their owner’s lap.
- Accessibility Limitations: Please note that San Francisco cable cars are not currently equipped with accessible boarding facilities.
For any inquiries, our friendly cable car grip operators and conductors are readily available to assist you. You can also connect with us on X (formerly Twitter) @sfmta_muni @sfmta_muni. Alternatively, reach out to the San Francisco Customer Service Center by dialing 311 (or 415.701.2311 from outside San Francisco).
Delving into the History of Cable Cars
When you hop aboard these moving landmarks, you’re not just taking a ride; you’re stepping back in time, experiencing San Francisco as it was in the 1870s. These very hills you ascend are the same routes traversed by San Franciscans over a century ago.
To delve deeper into the captivating early days of San Francisco cable cars, explore our History of the Cable Car page or plan a visit to the fascinating Cable Car Museum. to witness the intricate mechanics and rich heritage firsthand.
