Ride a classic cable car

Introduction

Chances are, you've seen a television show, movie, postcard, or some type of San Francisco memorabilia emblazoned with the city's iconic cable car or trolley. To fully experience San Francisco's charm, you should hop on board. San Francisco's cable car system is the last of its kind in the United States, earning the title of a National Historic Landmark in 1964. The cable car was conceived after Andrew Smith Hallidie, an immigrant from England, witnessed an accident involving a horse-drawn buggy trying to climb a steep San Francisco hill and failing. His father had a patent for wire rope in England which he used to design a transportation system reliant on that technology. Thus, cable cars were introduced in the late 1800s.

The Cable Car Experience

Riding the cable cars is an iconic San Francisco activity enjoyed by over 9 million visitors each year. You can relish the unique vantage point and admire San Francisco's vibrant streets as you traverse the city. Although you might have to wait in a bit of a line to board, it's a quintessential experience worth having. To minimize wait times, consider boarding at one of the stops along the line instead of at the beginning.

Popular Routes

You can catch the cable cars from several locations around town, including the famous Powell-Hyde Line at Powell and Market streets, which passes the twisty Lombard Street and the popular Russian Hill neighborhood. There are three lines in total, traveling through the following neighborhoods: North Beach, Fisherman's Wharf, Union Square, Nob Hill, Chinatown, and the Embarcadero.

Hours and Tickets

Relative to other forms of transportation, cable cars are a bit expensive at $8 for a one-way ride. As a cost-saving measure, travelers often suggest purchasing a day pass for $13, which also grants unlimited rides on Muni, Muni Metro, and streetcars. Visitors can also buy three-day and seven-day passes.

Money-Saving Tips

To save even more on one-, three-, and seven-day passes, purchase your tickets via the transportation agency's app, MuniMobile. If you don’t have the smartphone app and are paying for a single ride fare with cash, you will need to have exact change.

Operating Hours

Cable cars operate daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

For more information on routes and stops, visit the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency's website.