Cable Cars

Cable cars in San Francisco are a unique historic symbol and offer exciting way to travel around and up and down the steep hills of the city. Getting on one of these fancy, colorful cable cars may be the most unique and fun ride you’ll have as you visit the city in a private tour in San Francisco, especially if it’s your first time.   
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The cable cars operate from 6:00 am to past midnight; and you can expect them to run every 10 minutes. The single-fare rate for riding these cable cars is $7.00. Discounted fares are available for senior citizens but only during non-peak riding times. If you would like to explore San Francisco via these fascinating rides, it’s best to get a day pass or ticket at $17.00. This is an excellent option if you anticipate transfers from one cable car to another or to a mini bus, since these rides are all one way.  

source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:San_Francisco_Cable_Car_on_Pine_Street.jpg

You can buy a one-way ticket or an all-day pass directly from the person operating the cable car. Be sure to bring smaller bills because the operator can only give change for $20 and below. You also have the option to get cable car passports at the ticket booths that can be found at San Francisco Convention and Visitors Bureau, Powell or Market cable car turnaround, or at the Hyde & Beach cable car turnaround.  

These cable cars can take you to a number of popular tourist destinations in San Francisco: Chinatown, Union Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, North Beach, and the Ghirardelli Square.
But how can you get the most out of your cable car ride and how can you best enjoy every moment of this one-of-a-kind experience? Well, we have some great tips for you!

Aim to be seated on the side that faces the bay, so you can get the best views as well as the most stunning photographs! This position is the right hand side for vehicles coming from downtown and the left hand side for those coming from the Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 area.  

It’s best to bring your jacket or sweatshirt with you even on a sunny day, as it can get cold and/or windy on cable cars when they move up and down the hills. And even if you’re riding cable cars to experience the thrill and fun that comes with it, keep in mind that safety still comes first always, especially when you’re riding with children.   
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If you’re feeling brave, you can choose to ride on the outside, standing on the running board while holding tight on a pole outside the cable car. It’s a fun, exciting feeling, but it can be hazardous especially if you get too excited. It pays to be careful and watchful at all times while enjoying the whole experience. This iconic vehicle is also a classic, romantic site for a prenup or wedding photo shot! Why not?! 

source: http://www.cityhallphotographer.com/

Some people think that cable cars are a cheesy tourist attraction, but for those who appreciate beauty in all things even the small ones, this experience is more than just going from one point to another. It’s fun, thrilling, fascinating, and romantic in many ways.
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Experience the iconic cable cars of San Francisco with the help of our expert tour guides from Private Tours San Francisco.