Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze: Mind-bending Fun in San Francisco
Yale graduate Charles Magowan decided to put his psychology degree to good use by creating a mirror maze in San Francisco that bends the consciousness of every person who attempts to find their way to the other side.
Located in Pier 39, Magowan’s mind-bending hall of mirrors features towering archways, neon lights, and pulsing electronic music. The maze is essentially a 21st century version of the mirrored section of a classic carnival funhouse.
Those who are prone to disorientation and motion sickness might want to think twice before attempting to navigate Magowan’s flashy hall of mirrors. If you’re a maze lover—consider undertaking the ultimate challenge by attempting to navigate the mirror maze backwards. Magowan’s hall of mirrors will either be the ultimate horror or the ultimate delight. It all depends on how well you tolerate optical illusions, and how good you are with directions. You can always close your eyes if you feel overwhelmed.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze, halfway along the east side of Pier 39, second floor, San Francisco, California, USA
- Coordinates
- 37.8101138, -122.4103257
- Access
- The operator directs visitors to the east side of Pier 39’s second floor, halfway down the pier beside Taco Cantina (Pier 39, 0-11 Beach St, San Francisco). PIER 39’s listing calls the location Mid Pier, Level 1; the level labels conflict, so follow the operator’s directions and on-site signs. Tickets are sold online and at the door; operator says online tickets are valid any day/time and allows repeat runs.
- Admission
- The operator confirms children aged 5 and younger enter free. Its current information page does not state a clearly current adult ticket amount; confirm at the official checkout or door rather than relying on older promotional price wording.
- Time needed
- PIER 39 lists 1–2 hours as an attraction-stop estimate. The operator allows repeat runs and sets no fixed duration; actual time in the maze varies.
- Best season
- No preferred season is published. The indoor attraction is listed open every day, so it can be visited year-round; check for temporary schedule changes.
- Opening hours
- The operator currently lists daily hours of 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; PIER 39 independently lists 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. Check for holiday or temporary changes.
- Location checked
- 2026-11-02
- Facts checked
- 2026-11-02
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