San Francisco Cable Car Museum

"Step into the heart of San Francisco history at the Cable Car Museum, a free museum located inside the city’s operational cable car powerhouse and barn in the historic Nob Hill neighborhood. "

Recommended For

Families with kids
Watch the live machinery in action and explore real 19th-century cable cars

History buffs
Discover preserved grip cars, rare artifacts, and vintage photographs of San Francisco’s past

Transit and engineering enthusiasts
See how the winding powerhouse works and learn about grip technology evolution

Budget-conscious travelers
Enjoy one of the city’s top free attractions with rich educational value

Highlights & Exhibits

Live Powerhouse Deck: View the cables in motion from above the working cable car engines
Clay Street Hill Railway Grip Car No. 8: The last surviving car from the first cable line, dating to 1873
Sutter Street Railway Cars No. 46 & No. 54: Restored 19th-century grip and trailer cars showcasing early side grip technology
Mechanical Displays: See historic grip mechanisms, early parts, and cable tools
Historic Photographs & Memorabilia: Trace the journey of cable cars through fascinating visuals and artifacts

Special Features

Viewing Gallery: Go below street level to see where cable lines enter the powerhouse
Gift Shop: Shop cable car bells, books, and collectibles that support the museum’s preservation efforts
Cable Car Access: Ride the Powell-Hyde or Powell-Mason lines directly to the museum stop
Annual Bell Ringing Contest: Head to nearby Union Square in summer to watch cable car operators compete

Insider Tip

Bring ear protection for little ones—the powerhouse machinery is fascinating but can be quite loud! Visit in the morning to avoid tour crowds and enjoy more space around the exhibits.

Visitor Information