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Emperor Norton's Fantastic San Francisco Time Machine

Emperor Norton's Fantastic San Francisco Time Machine

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.

City: San Francisco

Sun 23 Feb

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $30.00

Make a reservation

Sun 23 Feb

Starting at $30.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Professional guide

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Masks and social distancing required.
Face masks required for travellers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitiser available to travellers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

What To Expect

Barbary Coast Trail

This trail winds throughout the tour and feathures numerous historical sites.

Union Square

The history of Union Square and the Dewey Monument.

Jackson Square

The history of the notorious Barbary Coast.

Maiden Lane

Glamorous Maiden used to be lined with brothels.

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.

Portsmouth Square

The birthplace of San Francisco and Chinatown's living room.

Old Cathedral of St. Mary

Hear the history of the cathedral and the passing of the Emperor.

Show 4 more stops

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (64)

Linda_O

Nov 2022

So much information…we took his recommendations for lunch and also popovers at Neiman Marcus. Yum yum! I loved that people shouted at the Emperor as if he was an old friend along the way. What a character!

David K

Oct 2022

One of the best walking tours we have ever taken. Emperor Norton is an expert on San Francisco history and makes the city come alive with tales of the earthquake and city live before and after. He gives you so much information that even a city native is going to learn new fun and historical facts about the city. The three hours flew by and we appreciated the restaurant recommendations at the end. The perfect way to spend some novel time a little time in SF! (don't call it Frisco:) Thank you Emperor for sharing your vast knowledge of the city with us today.

susanlR5399BJ

Oct 2022

My favorite part was listening to the facts and tales of the City. The walking tour is about 4 miles. Our tour guide, the Emporer Norton himself, was very entertaining.