San Francisco is a city renowned for its iconic vintage rail transit, offering a unique experience of riding history in motion. Feel the rumble beneath your feet, the gentle sway of the car, and even catch the scent of the brakes – it’s a magical journey through time. To truly complete this experience, a visit to the Cable Car Museum is essential, offering a deeper dive into the city’s fascinating railway heritage.
Our museum is a celebration of San Francisco’s rich rail transit history, with a special focus on the positive influence of streetcars and cable cars on the vibrant urban life of this incredible city. We aim to showcase how these transportation systems shaped San Francisco and contributed to its unique character.
Step inside and explore a range of captivating exhibits. A highlight is the full-sized, meticulously crafted replica of a 1911 San Francisco streetcar motorman’s platform. Here, visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in the role of a streetcar operator, experiencing the controls firsthand. Beyond this interactive exhibit, you’ll discover a collection of unique historical artifacts, informative displays, and rarely seen archival photographs. Our audio-visual exhibits utilize cutting-edge 21st-century technology to vividly bring the stories of 19th and 20th-century rail transit to life, making history engaging for everyone.
Before you leave, be sure to explore our gift shop, brimming with unique San Francisco treasures. We offer a curated selection of gifts, souvenirs, and memorabilia that you won’t find anywhere else, except in our online store! Many of these exclusive items are designed by talented local artists, inspired by San Francisco’s vintage and contemporary rail history. Currently, we are excited to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the cable car invention with special edition logo merchandise, including mugs, shirts, and coasters, available exclusively at our cable car museum. You’ll also find a wide array of other products celebrating both streetcar and cable car history in the City by the Bay.
The San Francisco Cable Car Museum is a must-visit destination, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s transportation past and present. Admission is free, with donations warmly appreciated. We are currently open from 12 noon to 5 pm, Tuesday through Saturday. Find us conveniently located at 77 Steuart Street, between Market and Mission Streets, directly across from the Ferry Building, at the F-line Steuart Street stop. For those who can’t visit in person, our online store is always open for unique San Francisco gifts!
