Grant's
San Francisco
Travel Guide

Cable Cars

When one thinks of San Francisco most people picture the famous cable cars. The cable cars are a charming way to tour some of the city. While they are fun to ride, they are a viable form of transportation too.

The cable cars first began running in 1873 and they became a National Historic Landmark on Oct. 1, 1964. They are, in fact, the only moving landmark in the United States.

Cable Car Routes

Cable cars run from roughly 6:00 am to midnight. There are three cable car lines:

• Powell-Hyde Line, begins at Powell & Market, runs through Nob HIll and Russian hill to Aquatic Park, near Ghiradelli Square. This is the westernmost end of the Fisherman's wharf area.
• Powell-Mason Line, begins at Powell & Market, runs through Nob Hill to Bay Street at Fisherman's Wharf.
• California Line, begins at California & Drumm and runs through the financial district, Chinatown and Nob Hill to California & Van Ness.

Fares for adults and children are $5.00 one way. Children 4 and under ride free. 1-day, 3-day and 7-day passports are also available (7 day passport requires passport + $1.00 per trip). 1-day Passport $11. 3-day Passport $18. 7-day Passport $24.

In addition to riding a cable car, consider visiting the cable car barn and powerhouse museum. Visitors are welcome to see how the whole system works. Located at 1201 Mason Street at the corner of Mason and Washington Streets. Open every day of the year except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission is free. Allow 20 to 45 minutes for a visit. Telephone: (415) 474-1887.

Hours:

• April 1st - September 30th 10AM - 6PM
• October 1st - March 31st 10AM - 5PM