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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

Sat 07 Jun

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $30.00

Make a reservation

Sat 07 Jun

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)

GwenParmer

Apr 2013

Young and old will love Emperor Norton's Fantastic San Francisco Time Machine Tour. Emperor Norton was a real life San Francisco character...here is wikipedia's explanation of him: Joshua Abraham Norton (c. 1819[2] – January 8, 1880), the self-proclaimed Imperial Majesty Emperor Norton I, was a celebrated citizen of San Francisco, California, who in 1859 proclaimed himself "Emperor of these United States"[3] and subsequently "Protector of Mexico".] Though he was considered insane, or at least highly eccentric,[8] the citizens of San Francisco celebrated his regal presence and his proclamations, most famously, his "order" that the United States Congress be dissolved by force. On January 8, 1880, Norton collapsed at a street corner, and died before he could be given medical treatment. The following day, nearly 30,000 people packed the streets of San Francisco to pay homage to Norton. "Emperor Norton" himself took us all around downtown San Francisco showing us many amazing sites such as: The St. Francis Hotel at Union Square (famous for assassination attempt on President Ford and amazingly beautiful), we received our own operatic concert on Maiden Lane, saw historic St. Mary's Catholic Church, Chinatown, Lotta's Fountain, The world famous Palace Hotel, and even went underground to one of the hidden tunnels where goods and people were smuggled along the Barbary Coast. Just a TIP--We found discount tickets on GoldStar!