The Solo Scale:

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Did you know that the cable cars get their name from how they move around by actual cables? In San Francisco, you can view the machinery that operates all the cable cars in San Francisco. It operates the cable cars that tourists ride every day. Not only can you visit, but admission is completely free.

Visiting the museum (located at 1201 Mason St) starts with getting there. The best way to do that is taking the Powell-Mason or Powell-Hyde lines. These cable cars make stops at the museum. Think of it like a prelude. You take the cable car, then you see how they operate. Seeing the giant cables actively running the system really is an eye-opener!

Make sure that you tell the conductor that you’re going to be getting off at the museum stop so there’s enough time to hop off the cable car. The cost to ride the cable car is more than a bus ride. However, it’s worth it for the ambiance and the operators and the uniqueness of it. Not to mention, nothing compares to the rush of wind through your hair as you climb the city streets.

The museum itself is set up on three floors. There’s a small basement area to watch how the cables operate, a main entrance area, and the bulk of attractions on the second floor. The primary draw here is the cables themselves constantly pulling and operating the cable cars (including the one you potentially rode in on!)

There’s other features in the museum as well. For San Francisco history buffs, you’ll love seeing historical records of buildings from before the 1906 earthquake that destroyed 80% of the city. There’s also plenty of photos showing the city, even over a hundred years ago. While it’s not quite a full half-day excursion, the perks of it being free and fascinating for history lovers and those who love to learn more makes it a great afternoon stop on your way to other San Francisco sights.

For more details and instructions on how to get there, check out the website.

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