San Francisco's Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum closes after nearly six decades

San Francisco's long-standing Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum, a fixture of the city's tourist attractions since its opening in the mid-1960s, is set to permanently close before 2025. The museum, known for showcasing oddities and curiosities from around the world, will cease operations by the end of the year.

The decision brings an end to nearly six decades of continuous operation at the famous North Beach location. Along with the museum's closure, the associated mirror maze attraction—a popular draw for visitors seeking an interactive experience—will also shut down permanently.

Ripley's Believe It or Not Museums have long been a staple in major tourist destinations worldwide, offering visitors a chance to view unusual artifacts and cultural oddities curated by the original Robert Ripley empire. The San Francisco location had become a recognizable landmark, drawing tourists and locals alike to explore its collection of the strange and extraordinary.

The closure represents the end of an era for San Francisco's tourism landscape, as the city loses one of its most distinctive and enduring attractions. Details regarding the reasons for the closure and potential plans for the property have not been disclosed. Staff have been informed of the year-end shutdown date.