San Francisco Cable Cars
Cable Cars
Operating since 1873, these are the world's only human-operated cable cars still in service. The Powell-Hyde line climbs over Russian Hill and runs straight down to Fisherman's Wharf. Riding on the running board with the bay in view is San Francisco's most classic experience.
San Francisco's cable cars were invented in 1873 by Andrew Hallidie. They are pulled by steel cables running beneath the street at a steady 15.3 km/h. The operator, known as the gripman, uses a large lever to clamp onto the cable to move forward, releases it to coast, and applies the brake to stop. This is the only cable car system in the world still operated by hand, and it is also the only moving National Historic Landmark in the United States. Three lines remain. The Powell-Hyde line runs from the Powell/Market turntable past Union Square, Nob Hill and Russian Hill (at the top of Lombard Street), then plunges down the steep Hyde Street toward Aquatic Park at Fisherman's Wharf. It has the best views and is the most popular. The Powell-Mason line starts at the same point but ends on Taylor Street, east of Fisherman's Wharf, and has shorter queues. The California line runs east to west through the Financial District and past Grace Cathedral on Nob Hill. It has fewer tourists and you can usually board it at any time. The single fare in 2025 is USD 8 (transfers not included). A one-day Muni Passport (including cable cars) costs about USD 14 and can be bought through the MuniMobile app or with a Clipper card. Cash tickets are also sold on board. Standing on the running board outside and holding the handrail is the most thrilling spot to ride. The driver will remind you to watch out for passing vehicles. At the Powell/Market terminus, the cars are turned around on a manual turntable, which is a show in itself. This is also where the longest queues form. It's best to arrive before 8:30 a.m., or to board at an intermediate stop on Hyde Street near Lombard Street, where the cars sometimes skip stops when full. The Cable Car Museum on Mason Street is free to visit. It houses the enormous pulleys that drive the cables under the city, along with cars from the 1870s. It's right on the Powell-Hyde line, and it's worth spending 30 minutes there.
Opening hours
Approx. 07:00–22:30
Nearby sights
- Chinatown, San Francisco
- Transamerica Pyramid
- Coit Tower & North Beach
- Union Square
- Exploratorium
- San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)
- Lombard Street
- Ferry Building Marketplace