Few experiences encapsulate the spirit of San Francisco quite like a ride on its iconic cable cars. These charming vehicles have become a symbol of the city, alongside the majestic Golden Gate Bridge. San Francisco holds the distinction of pioneering street-level cable-pulled transportation, a legacy dating back 150 years. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1964, these beloved cable cars are meticulously maintained by the city to this day, ensuring a delightful and authentic experience for every visitor.
Embarking on Your Cable Car Journey
Riding a cable car is remarkably straightforward. Three distinct lines are available, each offering unique vistas and destinations. Two lines originate at Powell and Market Streets, whisking passengers towards the vibrant Fisherman’s Wharf area. The third line commences at California and Market Streets, traversing towards Van Ness Avenue. Boarding is convenient at the cable car turntables, located at the starting and ending points of each route, or by identifying the distinctive brown-and-white cable car signposts scattered throughout the city.
For route planning and schedules, detailed maps are readily accessible online. For real-time updates and convenient trip planning, consider downloading the MuniMobile® app.
California Cable Car Route Information
Powell/Hyde Cable Car Route Information
Powell/Mason Cable Car Route Information
Navigating Cable Car Tickets and Fares
To streamline your experience and avoid potential queues, purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended. The MuniMobile® app and Clipper® Card offer seamless prepayment options.
For boarding cable cars at popular stops like Powell & Market, Bay & Taylor, and Hyde & Beach Streets, advance fare purchase is mandatory between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. daily.
Detailed pricing for single cable car rides is available online. For unlimited travel throughout the day, the Visitor Passport is a cost-effective and convenient option.
Payment Flexibility:
- MuniMobile® App: San Francisco’s official ticketing application, MuniMobile, enables instant ticket purchases via credit/debit card, PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
- Clipper® Card: The Clipper card serves as an all-encompassing transit card for the entire Bay Area. It is accepted across all major transit systems, including Muni.
- Cash: Exact change is required for cash payments.
Comprehensive details regarding cable car ticket options and fares can be found on the official Fares page.
Essential Cable Car Riding Tips
San Francisco’s dynamic streets and significant hills contribute to an exhilarating cable car adventure. Ensure a secure grip at all times. If standing and holding onto the exterior poles, refrain from leaning outwards for safety.
When disembarking, wait for the cable car to come to a complete standstill. Exercise caution and check for surrounding traffic before stepping off. At cable car intersections, remember that the green “X” traffic signal is designated for cable cars, not pedestrians; always look and listen carefully before crossing.
For passengers with bicycles, please note that full-size and folding bicycles are not permitted on cable cars. Alternative Muni routes are available for those traveling with bikes.
Service animals are welcome to ride within the interior of the cable car, either on their owner’s lap or positioned as far out of the aisle as feasible. If riding on the exterior sections, service animals must remain on their owner’s lap for their safety.
Regrettably, cable cars are not equipped with accessible boarding facilities.
For any inquiries or assistance, cable car grip operators and conductors are readily available to help. Alternatively, you can reach out via Twitter @sfmta_muni or contact the San Francisco Customer Service Center by dialing 311 (or 415.701.2311 from outside San Francisco).
Delving into Cable Car History
When you board these moving landmarks, you’re experiencing transportation in the same manner as San Franciscans did in the 1870s. To delve deeper into their San Francisco origins, explore the History of the Cable Car page or visit the Cable Car Museum.
