California | San Francisco | United States
For 150 years these wooden cars have been trundling up and down San Francisco’s hills. Riding them is a great way to get around and should not be missed.
Some pro tips:
1) Yes they are expensive. They used to be virtually free and the only way to get around. Now, the same cars are a hot tourist magnet. One ticket gets you exactly one ride (you get on and you get off, no transfers). So to get the best bang for your buck, ride the cable car all the way from Ghirardelli square to Powell Street. With this ride you’ll get to see the famous windy Lombard Street (though you could get off here, walk down, and walk back up and buy a second ticket to continue on) as well as fantastic views of the whole city.
2) Try and get a standing position along the outside. It’s the most fun way to ride.
There is also a cable car museum which is free and offers excellent history on the cable cars if you want to learn more.