Cable Car Museum
Published On: Mar 09, 2006

Cable Car Museum
1201 Mason Street
San Francisco, CA

Aside from the Golden Gate Bridge, perhaps nothing symbolizes San Francisco better than the cable cars. Now there is a museum dedicated to the cars, of course this isn't your run of the mill museum. It serves as a repair shop and storage place for the cable car system and is still in full operation.
Built in 1887 and originally serving the Ferries and Cliffhouse Railway, it has undergone an 18-million facelift.
Take some time in the mezzanine gallery and watch in amazement as you watch cars being hauled through a figure eight system by a cable. To get a better view of how the whole thing works, move to the lower level where you can get a perfect view of the massive pulleys and gears that operate underground.
Grip cars that were first operated on Clay Street in 1873 are also on display. Other exhibits include an antique grip car and trailer that was used until 1929 and ran along Pacific Avenue. Dozens of model cars that used to line the city are also on display. Maybe the best part of the museum is that you don't have to worry about spending all day wandering around, you can take in the entire museum in about 45 minutes.
For those that want to take home memories of their cable car experience, there is a gift shop that has got what you need.

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