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Emperor Norton's Fantastic San Francisco Time Machine

66 Reviews5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 66 reviews collected by Cool San Francisco and TripAdvisor | San Francisco, USA

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2 hours (Approx.)
Mobile Ticket

Overview

Be informed and entertained on this one-of-a-kind 3-hour walking tour of downtown San Francisco, led by an impersonator of the late Emperor Norton. Self-proclaimed as the Emperor of the US, this 19th-century character comes to life as your guide leads you back to the past. Step into a time machine of sorts and learn about the Barbary Coast, the 1906 earthquake, and historic landmarks surrounding Union Square.

What's Included

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Professional guide
  • Gratuities (Optional)
  • Food and drinks
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meeting Location

Meeting point

Union Square, San Francisco, CA, USA

Open in Google Maps

We meet under the Dewey Monument in the center of the square. If that is blocked, we meet of the corner of the square at Powell and Geary.

End point

Old Saint Mary's Cathedral, 660 California St, San Francisco, CA 94108, USA

Old St. Mary's Cathedral

What To Expect

Barbary Coast Trail

This trail winds throughout the tour and feathures numerous historical sites.
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Union Square

The history of Union Square and the Dewey Monument.
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20 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Jackson Square

The history of the notorious Barbary Coast.
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30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Maiden Lane

Glamorous Maiden used to be lined with brothels.
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15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Lotta's Fountain

A gathering place since 1875, it's also where the yearly earthquake commemoration is held. Hear the stories of buildings that survived, Lotta Crabtree, Lola Montez, and Luisa Tetrazzini.
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20 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Portsmouth Square

The birthplace of San Francisco and Chinatown's living room.
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15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Old Cathedral of St. Mary

Hear the history of the cathedral and the passing of the Emperor.
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5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-19479P1

Reviews

5.00
66 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 66 traveler reviews collected by Cool San Francisco and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
66
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0

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