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
- 37.81011, -122.41033
- Access
- Inside Pier 39, halfway along the east side of the second floor, next to Taco Cantina and near the Piano Staircase. Buy at the door or online; the operator says a ticket allows unlimited re-entry that day and unused online tickets are honored on another day. Pier 39 parking validation rules are separate and can change.
- Admission
- General admission was listed at $10 on 25 Sep 2026; the ticket checkout showed $10.60 including booking fee for 26 Sep. Price may vary by date/fees. Children aged 5 and younger are free.
- Time needed
- PIER 39 suggests 1–2 hours for the attraction.
- Opening hours
- Daily, 10:00 am–8:00 pm (operator listing checked 28 Sep 2026).
- Location checked
- 2026-09-28
- Facts checked
- 2026-09-28
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