Two different tracks for cable cars and other San Francisco, CA Transportation Tips

'Mode': AROUND
Category: Other
Getting TO/AROUND: Most people who come to San Francisco do not know that there are two different cable car systems. One, the usual tourist known one, starts at Union Square, which is in the center of downtown. The second starts at California and Market Street. I take all my out of town friends to the second one as it is always least crowded. Also this second cable car, connects with the tourist know one, Powell street at the top of the hill. Therefore, you can get off at the top, and change to the other one and go down to Fishermans' Wharf.
Also, at the top of the hill you can get off and visit Chinatown. Best part of that is that you are walking downhill.
A BIG TIP: At the beginning--when you are getting ready for the cable car to come for boarders, stand at the point where you will be at the front of the car. That way you can stand or sit on the outside for a better view and for camera shots.
Most of the people who ride the Cable Cars are tourists. Locals don't bother with the expense. They use the bus system, which is pretty good, except it is not a cable car.
While on the car, ask the brakeman about the cable car museum. This museum is free and is along the route of the Powell Car. It is near Chinatown. So you can take a quick look and go have some authentic Chinese cuisine.

Leave a Comment

'Mode': AROUND
Category: Ship/Boat
Getting TO/AROUND: You will have several choices of tours on a boat around the bay. This shot shows a cruise boat under the Golden Gate Bridge.
Bay area citizens used to have to depend on ferry boats to get across the bay, now we have the bridges. You can find ferry boats from Vallejo, San Rafael and Oakland that go into San Francisco at Pier 41. Prices differ, but it isn't that expensive.
Tops on the list would be the Alcatraz Tour our to Alcatra Island and the Bay Cruise that goes under the Golden Gate Bridge.
This is a good way to spend a couple of hours and get some great photo opportunites.
Bring a jacket, as it can get cold.
Buy your tickets left of Pier 39.

Leave a Comment

Phone: 800-735-2922
Website: http://www.goldengateferry.org/