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• Alcatraz Prison Tours

Alcatraz Prison Tours: Booking Tickets, Ferry Schedule & Other Tips to Book

by Jill Loeffler   •

Updated: March 11, 2024

Alcatraz Prison tours are a must for every visitor to San Francisco. With over one million visitors every year, it's one of the most popular SF attractions and one I've been fortunate to explore more than a dozen times.

I highly recommend that you pick your tickets up right away as they sell out quickly. However, there are also a few ways to find tickets for sold out days.

Disclaimer : I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

Highlights for Alcatraz Prison Tours

• Alcatraz is open with all of their normal tours running.
• Alcatraz is open throughout the year. It is only closed on Thanksgiving Day , Christmas Day , and New Year's Day .
• Tickets start at $45.25 for adults for the day tour. They start at $56.30 for the night tour. The behind the scenes tour is the most expensive and starts at $101.30 per person.
• The day tour usually lasts about 2 to 3 hours. The night tour is a little longer.
• The ferry to Alcatraz is included in your ticket. Ferries leave from Pier 33 which is along the Embarcadero.
• Tickets often sell out in advance, so make sure to pick up your tickets as early as you can before you arrive. Sometimes tickets are available the day of and are sold on a first come, first served basis from their ticket booth at Pier 33. However, don't count on this option as they usually only have a couple and people arrive early to stand in line to get them.

Combo Tickets that Include Alcatraz Tours

Everything you need to know to book alcatraz prison tours.

• What types of Alcatraz Prison tours are available? Which tour is best ? Is it better at night or day ? 
• How long is the tour? How long can you stay on the island? Can you take pictures ? 
• How far in advance do you need to buy tickets? What if tickets are sold out , how do I get last minute tickets? How much does it cost ? Are discounted tickets available?
• What time of day is best to visit? Is it better to visit in the morning or afternoon ? What time of year should I visit? 
• Is the tour worth it ? 
• What do I need to do to prepare for my visit including what I should wear, how I find my ferry, and more about visiting the island? Check out my visitors guide to help you prepare for your visit.

Three Types of Tours are Available

You will find three types of Alcatraz Prison tours. All include a ferry ride to and from San Francisco.

1. Early Bird & Day Tours

When you purchase your tickets, you will find there are two separate tour options. However, everything about them is the same except the time they leave.

The Early Bird Tour is the first Day Tour that leaves in the morning. Both cost the same and offer the exact same experience except with the Early Bird Tour, you are the first to arrive on the island.

The day tours include a self-guided audio tour which walks you through a pre-determined route in the main building on the island.

It includes some history for several locations within the main cell block along with descriptions about life on the island from ex-inmates and guards.

It lasts about 45 minutes.

Once you complete the audio portion, you are free to roam the open areas on your own. You can visit the gift shop, where you can purchase T-shirts, books and other items about the island. You can also join one of the scheduled, guided walks or discussions.

You will find a list of the special programs on this board as you enter the building before you start your visit (shown in the picture above). It allows you to plan out your time while you are on the island.

Unfortunately, you can't get a schedule of these when you book your ticket, since all of them are offered by volunteers. However, if you are able to experience one, this is another great benefit of the Alcatraz Prison tours and a great way to learn more about this site's history.

The day tour is great since you can spend as much time as you want. You can also take any ferry back to San Francisco, so there is no rush during your tour.

For most people, the day trip lasts about 2.5 to 3 hours.

>> Tips for taking the ferries to Alcatraz

2. Night Tour

The Night Tour is my favorite since the groups are smaller and there are fewer people on the island. It also includes a few more stories told by the park rangers. You can either stop and listen to them or head to the main prison building to start your self-guided audio tour (same on as in the day tour).

One question I get a lot about the Alcatraz night tour is if it's scary. The night tour is not scary. It's very similar to the day tour. There are just fewer people on the island, and you get a more personalized experience.

They run only twice a night. There also just two return ferries. These tours run in the late afternoon, even though they are referred to as night tours.

They also only run a few nights a week. Most of the night tours are about 3 to 3.5 hours.

Click here for additional details on what it's like on the night tour .

3. Behind the Scenes Tour

The Behind the Scenes tour of Alcatraz Island runs once a day every Thursday - Monday. It is all year around and is limited to less than 30 people per tour.

This is one of the Alcatraz Prison tours where you will get specialized treatment during your visit with a guided tour.

The tour starts with narration on your cruise during your journey. Once you reach Alcatraz Island, you will then be treated to a guided tour to places on the island few people get the chance to see.

They show you hidden doorways, basement cells, and tell you interesting stories about this historic gem.

Once the guided tour is complete, you will then set off on your own for the self-guided audio tour of the prison. This part of the tour lasts about 45 minutes.

The Behind the Scenes Alcatraz tour lasts about 4.5 hours. It is quite a bit more strenuous than the other tours as you will be climbing steep stairs and walking around on uneven pavement. Keep this in mind as you select which one is right for you.

All participants for this tour must be 13 or older and they won't give refunds if you purchase the ticket for someone under 13 and are not allowed to go.

This cruise leaves in the late afternoon and returns in the evening.

>> More about the Behind the Scenes Tour of Alcatraz

What are Combo Tours?

Another option for Alcatraz Prison Tours are the combo tours. Most of these tours offer tickets to the day tour of the island as well as a ticket for another San Francisco activity including a city tour , the hop on hop off bus , or a visit to Muir Woods .

The benefit of buying these tickets is that you have the opportunity to save a little money vs. buying these tickets separately. All of these tickets are sold through tour companies, so they do the work to set everything up for you.

The majority of these combo tours only include access to day tour tickets. Here are some of the best-selling combo tickets.

The Best Alcatraz Tour Options

Now that you know all about the types of Alcatraz Prison tours, you probably want to know which one is the best? My favorite is the night tour for a few reasons. 

First, there are fewer people on the island as all the people from the day tour are gone. Second, you get a more personalized experience since there are also fewer people on each night tour.

Another reason I love the night tour more is because there are usually additional areas open on the island that aren't open during the day. This is how I had a chance to see the prison's hospital area and other rooms above the cell blocks.

The downside to the night tour is that it only runs a few times a week, there are only one to two tours a day, and there are fewer tickets for each one. They are also more expensive than the day tour. 

I also love the Behind the Scenes tour. These run during the day and leave with with the night tour ferries, so there are a lot of people around in the beginning of the tour, but fewer by the time you head over for your self-guided audio tour.

However, you also get to go to places in the main jailhouse that others do not.

Being that there is only a limited number of tickets each day, you will want to plan ahead since they can be hard to get.

The combo tour tickets are best for those that already plan to do other activities in addition to their visit to Alcatraz. These are all day tickets to the island plus a ticket to another tour or activity. My favorite is the combo ticket with the Hop On Hop Off Bus.

You can use it to get to Pier 33 for your Alcatraz Prison Tour and then use it to get to your next destination.

Is it Better During the Day or the Night?

Visiting Alcatraz is interesting both during the day and at night. You will get a great sense for what it was like to live on the island and what it must have been like to be a prisoner here.

The day tours are fascinating and offer the most flexibility. The night tours are amazing, but keep in mind they leave in the late afternoon and return between 6 pm to 8 pm depending on the time of year.

So, which one is better? I prefer the night tour, but not because of the time it leaves. I prefer it because it's a more personalized experience. However, it takes longer, is more expensive, and the tickets are harder to get since it only runs a few times a week.

Typically, when I visit, I head over during the day as early as I can. It's a peaceful place first thing in the morning. You can easily get your tour in, explore the island for a hour, and then return to San Francisco for lunch. This also gives you more time to explore the city.

Length of Alcatraz Prison Tours

The minimum time for the day tours is about 2 to 3 hours. This includes the 15 minutes each way on the ferry to get to and from the island.

The night tours run about 3 hours including the time on the ferry.

The Behind the Scenes tour takes anywhere from 4.5 to 5 hours.

All of these are estimates as you are able to leave the island when you are ready to go back and there is a ferry available. 

How Long You Are Allowed to Stay

You can stay on Alcatraz until the last ferry. The last ferry for the Alcatraz Prison tours during the day leaves around 3pm. Depending on the season, the last ferry returns to Pier 33 at 3:50 pm or 6:40 pm. 

For the night tours, there are usually only one to two return ferries. They make sure there is room for everyone, so you can stay until the last night ferry leaves.

Depending on the season, the last ferry can return as late at 9:40 pm to Pier 33.

Pictures Inside Alcatraz 

Yes, can take pictures everywhere within Alcatraz. There are no restrictions on taking photographs as long as you are in an area open to the public.

Make sure to look out the windows because you can get some great photos of places on the island that are not open to the public.

At times, they do have traveling exhibits on the island. Each of these has a different photography policy, so make sure to check with them on any restrictions on these exhibits.

Ticketing Details

How far in advance do you need to buy Alcatraz tickets?

The Alcatraz Prison Tours are going on sale several months in advance right now. 

I recommend booking your tickets as soon as you know your dates. They don't typically sell out on the very first day the tours open, but sometimes they will sell out a day or two after. 

You can also look at combo tickets, which give you a little more time to book your dates. Tour companies are given an allotment of tickets to sell and most people purchase these much closer to their date of travel.

They are also a great place to look for sold out dates.

>> Tips on how far in advance you need to book other SF attractions

What if Alcatraz tickets are sold out? How do you get last minute Alcatraz tickets? 

I get emails all the time from people looking for tickets for Alcatraz Prison tours on days that are sold out on the official website.

Once those are sold out, there are no places I'd recommend booking individual tickets. However, my secret to solving this issue is to look for and book a combo tour (package) that includes other attractions or activities as well as Alcatraz tickets.

The best place to look is on GetYourGuide.

They consolidate the tickets available at local tour companies and offer you one look at almost everything that is still available for your dates.

Get Your Guide

Below are some of the top combo tour options on Get Your Guide. Click the pictures to find out what options are available on the date of your visit.

How much does it cost to go to Alcatraz?

Alcatraz Prison Tours ticket range from $45.25 for the day tours to $101.30 for the Behind the Scenes Tour. The day tour tickets are the least expensive.

Are discounted tickets available?

Many people search for discounted Alcatraz tickets. You won't find any reputable companies selling these tickets.

Since Alcatraz sells out most of the year, they never offer their tickets at a discount. I specifically point this out as I want you to be very careful of fraudulent tickets. 

I recommend purchasing your tickets either directly through Alcatraz Cruises, a reputable site such as GetYourGuide, or at the ticket counter (tickets will only be available here during the low season).

If you think you found an amazing deal and/or discount on Alcatraz tickets, it's most likely a scam. If you aren't sure, feel free to reach out to me and I'll do my best to help you identify if the deal is legitimate.

Best Times to Visit

What time of day is best to visit Alcatraz? Is it better to visit Alcatraz in the morning or afternoon? 

I highly recommend getting the earliest ticket in the day that is available. The Early Bird tickets are best since you are the first group on the island.

I also like getting there as early as possible because then you can participate in some talks on the island. These usually start around 11 a.m. with the final ones in the early afternoon.

If you show up around noon, you will miss your chance to listen to these talks as you will first need to go on your self-guided audio tour.

What time of year should I visit? 

There are a few considerations you'll want to look at when booking your tickets for Alcatraz Prison tours. The warmest months in San Francisco are September and October .

This is the best time to visit the island as the main Cellblock is a little warmer than the rest of the year.

That being said, this is San Francisco, so make sure you plan accordingly and bring long pants and a jacket. It can get mighty foggy and windy on the island and you don't want to be caught out there without some way to keep warm.

January and February are a little cooler as it's rainy season. However, tourism is quieter during that time of the year. This is a great time to visit if you don't want to battle the crowds as much. There is covered seating on the ferry, so they won't cancel them due to rain.

Visit the San Francisco weather section for a month-to-month look at the weather.

Are the Alcatraz Prison Tours Worth It?

Yes, this is a must see when you are in San Francisco. It's best for those interested in history and stories about the inmates. If those two things don't interest you, then you can skip this attraction.

The self-guided audio tour is great. You will hear voices from inmate with great sound effects. It gives you an honest feeling for what it must have been like to live on the island.

You will also learn more about the escape attempts including the one by Frank Lee Morris and Anglin brothers in 1962.

You can then make your own decision if you think they made it to the shore alive. You can also read a little more about that one here before your visit.

Exhibits at Alcatraz

Alcatraz is now starting to use some of their buildings for special exhibits. They have featured the works of famous artists such as Ai Weiwei, as well as others that focus on topics related to prisons, prisoners, or human rights. 

Access to these exhibits are included with your standard tickets for all Alcatraz Prison tours.

More Great Tips for Alcatraz

• Where to eat near Alcatraz

Read More About the History of Alcatraz

The following sections are dedicated to the history of this island. Discover details on its infamous prisoners, escape attempts, and some general history of the island. It's a great way to learn a little more before you head over for one of these fun Alcatraz Prison tours.

One of the most infamous prisoners of Alcatraz was Al Capone. He was one of the first prisoners on the island. How did he get his start as a gangster? What crime eventually sent him to prison? How did he get here (you might be surprised!)? What was it like for him here? Discover answers to these questions and more.

Read More : Al Capone

Robert "The Birdman of Alcatraz" Stroud

Stroud was another famous prisoner on Alcatraz Island—one of the few to become famous after he went to prison. Discover details around the crime that sent him to jail and why he was sent here. You will also find out more about his nickname, the "Birdman of Alcatraz".

Learn More : Robert Stroud

Other Infamous Prisoners & Life on The Rock

What was it like to be a prisoner? Here you will find details on the strict rules and regulations of the prison. You will also learn about some of the other famous prisoners who spent time on the island, including George 'Machine Gun' Kelly and Henry (Henri) Young.

Discover : Prisoners & Prison Life

Escape Attempts

Many people are fascinated by the escape attempts. Here you will learn about the various escape attempts and what happened to those inmates. In addition, you will learn more about the two most famous attempts, including the bloody Battle of Alcatraz and the 1962 attempt by Frank Lee Morris and the Anglin Brothers.

Uncover Details : Famous Escape Attempts

More History

Alcatraz Prison tours offer you a great way to learn more about the island's history. I've also pulled together some information to get you started. Here you will learn about what it was like on the island before it became a maximum-security prison. You will also learn more about prison life and the Indian Occupation that made headlines in 1969.

Learn More : A Brief History

Comments? Questions? Suggestions?

I would love for you to join me in my private Facebook group ! 

It's a great place to interact with me and others who know the area well.

You can ask questions, get advice for your upcoming stay, and then share your photos and advice with others when you return home. It's a great community and the fastest way to get answers to those nagging questions about your visit!

Come join the fun here !

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Travel Like a Pro: 17 Tips for Visiting Alcatraz Island

Hey there, planning a trip to Alcatraz Island? You’re in for an epic experience, trust me! Whether you’re a history buff, a movie enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates a breathtaking view, Alcatraz has something for everyone. Let’s dive into my top 17 tips for making your visit unforgettable. 🛥️

1. Choose Your Alcatraz Tour Wisely

Alcatraz cruises offers  four main types of tours :.

• Day Tour of Alcatraz:  Great for first-timers!
• Alcatraz Night Tour:  See the island in a whole new light.
• Behind the Scenes Tour:  For the uber-curious.
• Alcatraz and Angel Island Tour:  Two-for-one special!

To Buy Tickets:

• Online:  Alcatraz City Cruises Website
• Phone: 415-981-7625
• In-Person: Ticket booth at Pier 33, 9 am to 6:30 pm.

Insider Tip:  Beware of resale companies that hike up prices or charge you a ‘Booking Fee.” There is only one legit  Alcatraz ferry operator  that is permitted by the National Park Service.

2. Book Well in Advance

Tickets sell out fast, especially in summer. Book at least 90 days in advance. Check the  Alcatraz Cruises website  regularly for cancellations if your dates are sold out.

3. Time It Right

Day Tours  start at 8:40 AM and run every half-hour.  Night Tours  and Behind the Scenes Tours have specific times, so check when booking. Remember, the trip to and from the island takes 12-15 minutes each way.

4. What’s in the Ticket?

Your ticket includes a ferry ride to and from the island and an audio tour of the prison. Pay attention to your ticket’s departure time and be at Pier 33 early.

5. Take Public Transit

Parking at Pier 33 is a no-go. Use public transit or take an Uber. Nearby parking is at Pier 27 and Pier 23, but they can get expensive and fill up quickly.

6. Dress in Layers

You’re gonna experience all four seasons in a day. It’s windy, rainy, and sunny all at once. Dress in layers and wear comfy shoes.

7. Got Your ID?

You’ll need a valid ID to board. No exceptions.

8. No Food Allowed

Food and beverage service isn’t available on Alcatraz Island or the ferries, so eat up before you go.

9. Know the Restroom Situation

Restrooms are limited to the dock and the top of the island. Plan accordingly.

10. Grab the Early Bird Ticket

Taking the first ferry of the day gives you time to explore the island before it gets crowded. Trust me, it’s worth the early wake-up!

11. The Self-Guided Tour Rocks

Grab a headset and go at your own pace. Feel free to explore everything, from the cell house to the seabird colonies.

12. Listen Up

The audio tour is available in multiple languages and offers stories from former prisoners and guards. Don’t miss it!

13. Chat with Park Rangers

Got questions? Ask a Park Ranger. They’re your walking, talking guidebooks and are super friendly.

14. Wander Beyond the Cellhouse

Don’t just stick to the prison; check out the exhibits like  The Big Lockup  or stroll through the Alcatraz Gardens.

15. Birdwatching for the Win

Summer is bird nesting season. Pack binoculars and enjoy the spectacle but please don’t feed or disturb the birds.

16. Become a Junior Ranger

If you’ve got kids, or you’re a kid at heart, grab a Junior Ranger Book. It’s a fun way to learn more about Alcatraz.

17. Keep an Eye on the Clock

Don’t miss the last ferry back! Be aware of the departure times, which are posted at Pier 33 and the dock on Alcatraz.

3 Fun Facts 🤓

• Alcatraz was not just a prison!  Before its days as a federal prison, it was a military fort and later a military prison.
• Escape Attempts:  There were 14 known attempts to escape Alcatraz, but it’s believed that no one ever survived.
• Bird Paradise:  Alcatraz is home to colonies of nesting seabirds. It’s an unexpected haven for birdwatchers!

3 Insider Tips 

• Book the Night Tour for a Unique Experience:  The island feels entirely different at night—more eerie, more historical, just more of everything!
• Check for Special Events:  Occasionally, Alcatraz hosts special exhibits and events. Make sure to check the calendar.
• Why it’s Important : Many people bolt straight to the cellblocks or other famous spots, but there’s more to see!
• What to Do : At the island’s visitor center, they usually have short films and free exhibits. Spend some time there to get a fuller understanding of Alcatraz’s layered history.
• Bonus : It’s not just about famous inmates; you’ll learn about the island’s military history, its role in Native American activism, and more.

There you have it 17 tips to enjoy Alcatraz like a Pro! Go forth and explore, you intrepid traveler, you! 🌉✨

Learn more and plan a trip to alcatraz island, alcatraz history and how to visit, the ultimate alcatraz faq: everything you need to know before you go, unlocking alcatraz: a deep dive into the four essential tours, 17 fun and weird facts about alcatraz island and prison, behind bars and beyond 21 movies and 14 tv shows that explored alcatraz – the rock, want to explore san francisco on a private small group tour .

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How to Visit Alcatraz Island in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, and More

Jessica Nemire Last Updated: October 26, 2023

Alcatraz Island is almost synonymous with San Francisco. Due to the island’s immense popularity, it can be hard to plan your visit. Never fear! That’s what we are here for. Here’s how to visit Alcatraz Island, plus all you need to know about tickets, hours, and more!

Pro Tip:  It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Bookmark this post along with our  San Francisco Guide  for more planning resources, our best San Francisco tours  for a memorable trip, and the top things to do in San Fran .

Alcatraz Island Hours, Tickets, Tours, And Facts: What We’ll Cover

Alcatraz Island housed the most infamous prison in the United States: the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary. Since shutting down in 1963 and sending its prisoners elsewhere, both the prison and the island have become one of the most popular tour destinations in San Francisco.

It’s also in the middle of the scenic San Francisco Bay, making it even more of an iconic place to visit to get some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco. You can learn more about the history of Alcatraz Island here !

• Hours and info
• Tickets and pricing
• Transportation and parking
• What to see and do
• Alcatraz tours
• Facts and history of Alcatraz

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if San Francisco tours are worth it .

How to Visit Alcatraz Island: Hours and Info

Hours:  Monday – Sunday, from 10 am until 9 pm.

Alcatraz Island is closed on the following days:

• Thanksgiving (4th Thursday of November)
• December 25

There are also various portions of the island that are closed off at certain times of the year to allow the island’s resident sea birds to nest. Alcatraz Island has been known to have special events, such as art exhibits, although there have not been any such events since 2019. If they resume events again, their events page can be found here . Currently, the island is hosting community building days to restore the the gardens on the island.

Tickets and Pricing for Alcatraz Island

Since Alcatraz Island is, you know, an island, it’s only accessible via a ticketed ferry. Due to the popularity of Alcatraz, we strongly recommend booking your tickets to Alcatraz Island at least a few weeks ahead of time! Especially during the summer and other high tourist times during the year, Alcatraz tickets can sell out even months ahead of your tour date!

Every ferry ride to Alcatraz Island departs from Pier 33 near Fisherman’s Wharf. The ferry ride from Pier 33 to the island typically takes around 15 minutes. Make sure you arrive at least 45 minutes before the ferry is scheduled to leave. There’s a lot to explore and views to take in from the island, so we recommend spending at least three hours there.

You can purchase your tickets online or in person at Pier 33, which is where the ferry departs. If buying directly from Alcatraz Island, they offer a day tour, a night tour, and also a behind-the-scenes tour. The prices listed below are for the daytime tour, as that is the most common option.

Admission:  $41 for adults, $25 for children (5-11 years), $41 for juniors (12-17 years), $38 for seniors (62+ years) Family Pricing: $119.60 total for 2 adults + 2 children 5-11years

Address:  31 San Francisco Pier 33 – Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, CA

Pro Tip:  Skip the line by booking your ticket online ahead of time or getting more out of your visit by joining our San Francisco in a day tour ! The tour includes a full access ticket to Alcatraz Penitentiary and Island, as well as a 4-hour guided tour of San Francisco in an open-sided van. The tour also stops by the famous Golden Gate Bridge, and includes pickup at your hotel!

Not ready to book a tour? Read more in our San Francisco Guide .

How To Get to Alcatraz Island

Please note that there is no parking available at Pier 33 (or the island) as you plan how to visit Alcatraz Island. The ferry landing dock at Pier 33 is about a 7-minute walk or a 5-minute drive from Pier 39, otherwise known as Fisherman’s Wharf.

Like most of San Francisco, parking is almost impossible to find at Pier 39. For this reason, finding another way to Alcatraz Island is advised. That’s a big part of the reason why we recommend booking our San Francisco in a day tour that includes Alcatraz. All logistics and tickets are included so you can enjoy your day without stress.

Here are a few transportation options to get to your Alcatraz ferry departure at Pier 33:

• Car/Rideshare Services

The exact timing of your journey to Pier 33 to pick up the ferry for Alcatraz Island depends on which hotel you are staying at, of course. Since most of our picks for the best hotels in San Francisco are near the Embarcadero waterfront , we calculated the times from there. We also calculated some times from Union Square, as that is another popular area to stay in San Francisco.

By Trolley:

We don’t mean the cable cars when we say trolley. Although it looks similar to a cable car, the F Market & Wharves trolley is a MUNI bus that runs from Castro St. Station to Fisherman’s Wharf. Standing for San Francisco Municipal Railway,” the MUNI system is San Francisco’s bus and underground train system.

From the Embarcadero, it takes around 8 minutes to get from the trolley stop to Pier 33. From Union Square, it takes around 24 minutes. A ride on the F trolley costs $3. You can pay by cash with exact change, or on the MuniMobile app. For more information about transportation in San Francisco, check out our helpful article about getting around San Francisco !

If you’re staying by the Embarcadero, the F trolley is your only public transportation option to get to Pier 33. If you are staying by Union Square, you can take the 8 MUNI bus. It takes around 24 minutes, and costs $3.

By Car/Uber:

It takes 10 minutes to drive from Union Square to Pier 33 and around 5 minutes or less to drive from Embarcadero. Since parking is next to impossible near the piers, if you need to drive, we suggest taking Lyft, Uber, or a taxi. With all 3 options, the one-way fare for a standard car fitting 3-4 passengers is likely between $10 and $12.

It takes less than 10 minutes to bike from both Union Square and the Embarcadero area to Pier 33. There are bike rentals all over the city, including handy electric bikes. Bay Wheels, an e-bike sharing program managed by Lyft, offers bike rentals through the Lyft app. For single rides, you will be charged an unlock fee of $3 and charged 30 cents a minute. So, a 10-minute bike ride would about cost $6. Despite being a difficult area to park in, there are frequently a lot of cars and traffic in this area, so watch out for cars if you are biking!

If you are staying near Union Square or the Embarcadero, it might be easiest to simply walk to Pier 33 to catch the ferry if you and everyone in your group is up for a walk. Walking from the Embarcadero Area will take around 15-20 minutes, depending on which hotel you are staying in, and walking from Union Square will take around 30 minutes.

What to See and Do on the Island

Throughout your exploration of the buildings left standing on Alcatraz, you’ll find hundreds of photographs and memorabilia from the time of its use. Some areas are off limits to tourists as they are unstable from neglect. The walkways are also quite steep in some areas, so wear sturdy shoes!

• The cellhouse and infamous escape room
• The gardens
• The courtyard or playground
• View of the bay and the city

Alcatraz Island Tours

A trip to Alcatraz Island is only possible by purchasing a ferry ticket to the island. The National Park Service has jurisdiction over the island, so you’ll find park guides available to help you explore the island. It’s a mostly self-guided tour, but there are also several tour options available throughout the day.

The most popular tour option is the Alcatraz day tour, but there are also night tours, behind-the-scenes tours, and combination tours with Angel Island and Alcatraz Island.

Since it’s extremely difficult to get tickets during peak tourist months, booking a combination tour with a local guide is a popular option. Most tourists prefer booking both Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge to see both of the top San Francisco attractions in one day.

Facts and History of Alcatraz

To get you excited about your trip to Alcatraz, here are some interesting facts about the history of Alcatraz from authors and eyewitnesses mentioned in our other article here .

• Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary housed prisoners during the Civil War.
• The army left Alcatraz in 1934, but it was only empty for a few weeks before the Bureau of Prisons put the most dangerous criminals here.
• Most of the criminals at Alcatraz had committed violent crimes or tried to escape their previous prisons.
• Famous Alcatraz inmates included Al Capone (for tax evasion) and “Machine Gun” Kelly (not the singer) convicted of kidnapping.
• Although the prison took up most of the island, there were also barracks, apartments, and a recreation hall, and at least 60 families with children lived there full time.
• The families who lived there called it  “the poor man’s Hawaii.”
• In 1972, the island became a part of the National Park Service, and it has been home to beautiful gardens since 2003.
• Currently, many species of animals call the island home, such as salamanders and cormorants.
• It’s referred to as “The Rock” because it is made up of mostly rock, and dirt was hauled in to make it livable.
• So far, it has appeared in 10 movies and TV shows, including the 2010 movies The Book of Eli and the 2006 movie X-Men: The Last Stand .

Where To Stay in San Francisco

Make the most of your visit to San Francisco by choosing to stay in the best neighborhoods for seeing all this iconic city has to offer. You’ll love our hotel recommendations.

About Jessica Nemire

Jessica Nemire has been writing about about travel since 2011. She graduated from San Francisco State University in 2016 with a BA in journalism. She loves the ocean, Mission District burritos, and amazing sunsets.

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