Old-School

Musee Mecanique in San Francisco // © 2009 Kenneth Shapiro

Nowadays, it’s easy for parents to be cynical about the role technology plays in their kids’ lives and to believe that only the latest gadgets will entertain their overstimulated kids ... until they visit the Musee Mecanique in San Francisco. With more than 200 mechanical antique arcade machines in their original working condition, even the most jaded kids will be amazed at the fun that can be had with real-life objects.

The museum, located on Pier 45 at the foot of Taylor Street in San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf, is the brainchild of Edward Galland Zelinsky. His private collection consists of more than 300 items, many taken from long-closed Bay Area amusement parks. Admission is free, and most games cost only a quarter to play.
www.museemecaniquesf.com