San Francisco, 1879

Kidnapped on the Barbary Coast

Night on the Barbary Coast — the Hippodrome and neighboring dance halls lit up along Pacific Street

The Barbary Coast was San Francisco at its most lawless: saloons, gambling dens, and a thriving trade in kidnapping, where men were drugged and sold into forced labor at sea.

In 1879, a 19-year-old boy vanished from the streets. Hop back in time to:

Alistair Finch
Alistair F.
  • Visit the city's oldest saloons
  • Interrogate witnesses
  • Deliver your verdict
When Thursday, 6:00 PM
Starting point Ferry Building, San Francisco Near Embarcadero — exact meeting spot sent with your reminder
Duration One mile, self-paced. 60-120 minutes, including optional bar stops.
Cost Completely free! We'd love to share a beer at the end and hear what you think.
Admission 21+ recommended Quest visits working saloons; mature themes of coercion and violence
What you'll need A well-charged phone, warm layers, and walking shoes. Headphones strongly recommended. One saloon is cash-only.

Get a reminder before Thursday

Drop your email and we'll send the meeting spot, what to bring, and a nudge before the saloons open.

21+ recommended. This quest stops at working San Francisco saloons and deals with themes of kidnapping and coercion. Not recommended for young children.