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Alcatraz Island Golden Gate National Recreation Area 201 Fort Mason San Francisco, CA 94123

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City Cruises – Alcatraz

Join us for the Bay Discovery Cruise! An enchanting sightseeing adventure on the stunning San Francisco Bay! This 90-minute voyage promises an experience filled with iconic San Francisco landmarks.

Experience the many moods of Alcatraz Island with an evening visit. Enjoy the beauty of a sunset silhouetting the Golden Gate Bridge, experience a cell door demonstration, and hear compelling stories about the Island’s history and residents.

Enjoy access to Alcatraz Island, including the historic Alcatraz Cellhouse with the self-guided Cellhouse Audio Tour.

Discover areas not otherwise available to the public!  Join a group of 30 people or fewer on a guided 1.5-2 hour adventure to explore off-limits areas and hear little-known-stories about the Island’s fascinating past, then join the Alcatraz Night Tour (including Cellhouse Audio Tour) for a full evening’s experience.

Alcatraz Blog

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Guest Blog Post – Jolene Babyak Among the many revelations about Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary that surprise most people is that families also resided there. Surprised, at least, until I remind

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Alcatraz History

Alcatraz and history go hand in hand

Once home to some of America’s most notorious criminals, the federal penitentiary that operated here from 1934 to 1963 brought a dark mystique to “The Rock”. The presence of infamous inmates, like Al “Scarface” Capone and the “Birdman” Robert Stroud, helped to establish the Island’s notoriety. Yet, many people are unaware of the historical significance before and after it was one of the world’s most legendary prisons.

The 20th Century

Civil War-era buildings, cannons, and subterranean rooms give insight into the 19th century when the Island served as both a harbor defense fort and a military prison. As you dock at Alcatraz Island, visible reminders of the American Indian Occupation, which began in 1969 and ended in 1971, remains etched on “The Rock”, recognizing an important milestone in the American Indian rights movement.

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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?

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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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Alcatraz Island and Guided San Francisco City Tour

Combine the official Alcatraz tour and a fully guided city tour for a day of San Francisco highlights

This full-day tour breaks you into Alcatraz Island prison and features guided entertainment and stops to explore Golden Gate Bridge, Palace of Fine Arts, Land’s End and Twin Peaks.

• See San Francisco’s top attractions like the Haight-Ashbury, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Castro
• Make stops to photograph and experience the Palace of Fine Arts, Golden Gate Bridge, Land’s End, and Twin Peaks.
• Ferry to Alcatraz Island for the famous prison tour
• Hear guided tour narration in your own language
• Begin with a pickup from two major San Francisco hotels

What’s Included

• Pick up at two San Francisco locations
• Local expert guide commentary in English
• Foreign language audios for the city tour available (specify at checkout)
• Alcatraz Island admission

What’s Not Included

• Meals or beverages
• Guide gratuity

Description

Ride in comfort before you float the bay as you tour the city’s top attractions, on this San Francisco City tour plus Alcatraz . Our city insider guide goes way beyond a “hop-on, hop-off” experience to deliver a fully-narrated San Francisco sightseeing adventure. Your comprehensive 4-hour morning City Tour ends in style with a ferry ride to and tour of the (in)famous Alcatraz Island in the afternoon.

Morning: Bus City Tour

Stop #1 – palace of fine arts.

After a morning pickup at one of two convenient San Francisco locations, your city tour will begin on San Francisco’s waterfront in the popular Fisherman’s Wharf before rolling through the Marina District on your way to your first stop. At the lovely and hinstagrammable  Palace of Fine Arts , you will have the chance to stop and photograph the historic building, grounds, and stunningly beautiful lagoon.

Stop #2 – Golden Gate Bridge

Continue to the most iconic stop at the Golden Gate Bridge . Spend 10-15 minutes at a perfect vista point taking photos and creating memories.

Stop #3 – Land’s End Overlook

The next stop on your San Francisco City Highlights tour will be the historic Land’s End where you can stretch your legs while overlooking Sutro Baths and the Pacific Ocean coastline. Later, you will be blown away by the beauty of Golden Gate Park as you ride past Dutch windmills, Queen Wilhelmina’s tulip garden, the bison paddock, and old redwood and eucalyptus groves. Next, we’ll take you through the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, where you can see some of San Francisco’s famous Victorian homes, known for their iconic architecture.

Stop #4 – Twin Peaks

Fog-permitting, the next stop on this tour gives you a birds-eye-view of the whole Bay Area from atop Twin Peaks. Here, you’ll get an amazing panoramic view of the Golden Gate Bridge, Mount Tamalpais, Mount Diablo, the whole Bay and more from the viewpoint sitting 1,000 feet above sea level. To say it’s breathtaking would be an understatement!

Afternoon: Sail to Alcatraz Island for the Famous Prison Tour

Grab some lunch in Fisherman’s Wharf , then make your way to Pier 33 to board your ferry for the Alcatraz Island Prison Tour. The 15-minute sail has incredible views of the city skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, San Francisco Bay and Angel Island   — have your camera ready!

On arrival to Alcatraz Island, pick up the Cellhouse Audio Tour included with the purchase of this San Francisco and Alcatraz tour package. Hear the voices of prisoners and guards describing their experiences at Alcatraz in English, Spanish, Japanese, French, Italian, German, Dutch or Mandarin.

After touring on Alcatraz Island to your heart’s content, take one of the returning ferries back to Pier 33. If you’ve worked up an appetite or thirst, there are plenty of Fisherman’s Wharf options before making your own way back to your hotel.

Things to Know About this Tour:

You must bring a government-issued photo ID to board the Alcatraz Ferry

Children under the age of 8 must have an appropriate child seat for the city tour

08:30 AM to 10:00 AM - Pick up, Palace of Fine Arts

• Pickup at one of two convenient San Francisco locations in either Union Square or Fisherman’s Wharf
• Drive through the Marina district while enjoying the views of Alcatraz Island
• Stop and explore the picturesque Palace of Fine Arts (15 minutes)

10:00 AM to 11:00 AM - Golden Gate Bridge and Land’s End

• Stop at a spectacular vista for photos of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge
• Stop at Land’s End for the Pacific Ocean coastline views
• Enjoy panoramic views of Sutro Baths and the Cliff House

11:00 AM to 12:00 PM - Golden Gate Park and Twin Peaks

• Drive through Golden Gate Park with its many gardens and museums
• Drive through San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury with it’s Victorian architecture
• Stop at Twin Peaks overlook and enjoy the 360 degree views of the whole Bay

12:00 PM to 1:00 PM - Mission District, Fisherman's Wharf

• Drive by Misión San Francisco de Asís in the vibrant Mission District
• Ride through the Civic Center
• Return to your pickup point

2:00 PM to 4:30 PM Enjoy the Infamous Alcatraz Prison Tour

• Board your ferry for the Alcatraz Island tour at Pier 33
• Enjoy the “The Alcatraz Cellhouse Audio Tour” (foreign languages available)
• Free time to explore Alcatraz Island; take a return ferry to Pier 33

Times listed are approximations. Traffic and unforeseen events can cause delays

What Our Guests Are Saying About Us

Authentic guide.

Our guide was very knowledgeable, enthusiastic, approachable, and thorough. She also adapted well to detours and other unplanned obstacles.

Read Full Review

Nathan M, TrustPilot

All in all, we felt the price justified the experience and recommend Extranomical to future visitors to San Francisco. Our guide was very knowledgeable, enthusiastic, approachable, and thorough. She also adapted well to detours and other unplanned obstacles. She even handled well an interruption by a participant who took a mobile phone call. Moreover, she was authentic and really cared that her guests would have a quality experience.

Everything we expected!

Our guide Don was excellent. Loved his laid back California vibe. We had a pretty thorough tour of the city, with great commentary. The coach was comfortable & sheltered us from the chill.

Leenora B Broussard, GetYourGuide

Our guide Don was excellent. Loved his laid back California vibe. We had a pretty thorough tour of the city, with great commentary. The coach was comfortable & sheltered us from the chill. By the afternoon, Alcatraz was everything we expected & the boat ride was gorgeous.

Amazing tour!

SF tour and stops at key areas . Alcatraz good and able to stay as long as you want so no pressure!

Jane Corser, GetYourGuide

Awesome tour!

Joseph was our tour guide and Archie was our driver and they made a great team with their combined knowledge from growing up in the area.

Lindsey Feld, GetYourGuide

We did this tour on the first full day we were in San Francisco and we felt it was a great introduction to the city! Joseph was our tour guide and Archie was our driver and they made a great team with their combined knowledge from growing up in the area. Alcatraz was awesome and we were lucky enough to experience it during fleet week with the Blue Angels flying above us. Highly recommended activity!

Excellent experience

Both the city bus tour and Alcatraz Island experiences were excellent, with a very experienced and well understood morning tour guide.

Ralph L Lewis, GetYourGuide

Both the city bus tour and Alcatraz Island experiences were excellent, with a very experienced and well understood morning tour guide. Unfortunately, coordination between Extranomical and the Guided City Tour people was not as seamless as it should have been. When we arrived in the morning, the on site coordinator didn't have us listed for the afternoon tour and I had to make a last minute phone call to Extranomical to be apprised of the afternoon check-in details.

Very Exceptional!

Tour guide Kimmy collected us on time from our Hotel and proceeded to give us a wonderful insight and tour of San Francisco in her mini bus - 12 people in total and very covid safe

Suzanne Fitzgerald, TrustPilot

Tour guide Kimmy collected us on time from our Hotel and proceeded to give us a wonderful insight and tour of San Francisco in her mini bus - 12 people in total and very covid safe (masks mandatory) - we covered so much area and learnt so much about each area... history, movie sets and famous people, restaurants to visit, etc - I now feel very wise about SF! We had two stops along the way and even did a trip along the Golden Gate Bridge. Amazing photo's from this vantage point (a whale even made an appearance in the bay on queue). Kimmy's knowledge (being a local) is exceptional! We were then dropped off at the Pier to head off on the Alcatraz tour with plenty of time to buy lunch. Was a really interesting and informative day. (For lunch, if you are not into the hamburgers and fried fish available along the wharf area - cross the road from the pier to a really lovely cafe - beautiful indoors/outdoors, food and bathrooms). The visit to Alcatraz is a must - very sobering indeed and definitely a 'must do' when in San Francisco. It is a really good idea to research the 'Escape from Alcatraz' story before you go as this will really give you a better understanding of the prison and day-to-day life. When you arrive on Alcatraz - go to the top where the prison is actually located and where you are able to pick up (free) an audio machine to take you on a personal tour. Excellent tour - highly recommend to all visitors to SF - run by a very professional company.

Very enjoyable

Went on the full day tour of San Francisco and Alcatraz. It was very enjoyable. Bus driver Jack was super friendly and Michelle our tour guide was very knowledgeable about San Francisco.

Ingrid Bennett, TrustPilot

Went on the full day tour of San Francisco and Alcatraz. It was very enjoyable. Bus driver Jack was super friendly and Michelle our tour guide was very knowledgeable about San Francisco. Took us to a lot of sights and different areas of the city.

A must tour!

The Alcatraz/City tour was good. Our guide showed us all the major sites & explained them well. Alcatraz is a must & the tour made it as easy as possible.

Kerry Dubbert , TrustPilot

Book With Confidence

Award-winning tours & customer service, money back guarantee, 2000+ 5-star reviews, what will we see during the city tour.

Easily the most comprehensive city tour of San Francisco, including visits to: Marina District, Palace of Fine Arts, Golden Gate Park, Haight-Ashbury, Fisherman’s Wharf, Land’s End, Castro District, Union Square, Twin Peaks and, of course — the Golden Gate Bridge!

Is the Alcatraz portion of the tour guided?

All tours of Alcatraz are operated by the National Park Service. While rangers are available for questions, the primary content of the tour is delivered through an audio guide available in English, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish languages.

What should I wear?

San Francisco can be chilly in the morning so it’s best to dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes or sandals.

Do I need to bring my ID?

You must present valid government-issued photo identification to pick up your tickets at Alcatraz Pier 33. A photocopy of a passport suffices as valid photo identification.

What should I bring?

Besides your valid government-issued ID, bring a light water-resistant jacket, camera or phone, water bottle, hat, sunscreen, umbrella (if the forecast calls for rain), and a credit card or cash for purchasing souvenirs or snacks.

How much time will I have on Alcatraz island?

The amount of time you can stay on Alcatraz Island is up to you. Return ferries to San Francisco leave the island about every 20 minutes. Most guests find that 2 hours is sufficient time to do the complete prison tour. The ferry between Alcatraz Island and San Francisco takes about 15 minutes.

Is Alcatraz accessible for those with disabilities?

Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing is fully accessible. Many areas on Alcatraz Island are also accessible with the use of the S.E.A.T. (Sustainable Easy Access Transport) Tram.

Why not purchase Alcatraz and a city tour separately?

First, the combo tour makes for an easy, seamless day in which we pick you up near your hotel and deliver you to Pier 33 to catch the ferry to Alcatraz. Also, our contract with the National Park Service allows us access to Alcatraz tickets only when they are part of a tour package.

Are meals included? Can I buy or bring my own?

Meals are not included on this tour. There are multiple food options available in Fisherman’s Wharf where you can purchase lunch or snacks. Please note that food is not permitted on Alcatraz Island.

Do I need to be at Pier 33 - Alcatraz Landing before my departure?

We will manage the day so that you are at Pier 33 one half-hour prior to your departure time to check in. You must present valid government-issued photo identification at the will call booth to collect your Alcatraz tickets.

Why is this tour non-refundable?

Tour operators like Extranomical must purchase the Alcatraz tickets in advance and they may not be transferred or refunded after purchase.

How do I collect my Alcatraz tickets?

When you arrive at Pier 33, there is a separate “Will Call” line for visitors to pick up prepaid tickets. Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your departure time to check in. You must present a valid government-issued photo ID or passport.

Are there dining options on Alcatraz Island?

There are no dining options on the Island. Guests may bring bottled water to drink. Please plan accordingly and enjoy your lunch after the City Tour and before your Alcatraz experience.

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Alcatraz Day Tour

Alcatraz night tour, bay discovery cruise.

• Alcatraz Behind The Scenes Tour
• Book Your Tour Now!
• About Alcatraz
• Park Programs
• Alcatraz History
• Alcatraz Ferry Schedule
• Before You Visit
• Accessibility & Parking
• Alcatraz Tours

Accessibility Advisory: The distance from the dock to the Cellhouse is approximately 1/4 mile, and the elevation change is a steep 130 feet. There are several places to rest and take in the views. Athletic or comfortable walking shoes are recommended. If you have mobility concerns, please see Accessibility for Sustainable Easy Access Transport (S.E.A.T.) Tram information.

Bay Discovery Cruise: If the Alcatraz Island tour is sold out on your preferred date, try the Bay Discovery Cruise , a 90-minute sightseeing cruise around several of San Francisco's iconic locations. This tour is available during peak times throughout the summer.

Ferry to Alcatraz Island. Tour the Inside of the Cellhouse. Explore Alcatraz Island.

• Approximately 2 ½ Hours
• Daily departures: 8:40 AM to 3:50 PM
• Mobile E-Ticket Check-in
• Alcatraz Island roundtrip ferry
• Access Inside Alcatraz Prison
• Cellhouse Audio Tour
• Orientation video
• Ranger and docent tours
• Adult Price: $53.25
• Seniors: $50.65
• Children: $35.55  

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The Complete Alcatraz Tour

• Tuesday thru Saturday. Until March 9th: 3:50 PM check-in. Beginning March 12th: 5:55 PM, 6:30 PM and 7:05 PM check-in.
• 45-minute Cellhouse Audio Tour
• Onboard narration
• Guided tour
• Other special activities
• Adult Price: $64.30
• Seniors: $60.25
• Children: $41.00  

90 Minute San Francisco Bay Cruise

• 90 Minute Cruise
• Summer schedule varies: 10:40 A.M., 1:10 P.M. and 3:45 P.M. security check-in times.
• Mobile Check-in
• Round-Trip 90 Minute Sight Seeing Cruise
• App-Based Audio Tour
• Adult Price: $52.00
• Seniors: $43.00
• Children: $37.00  

Alcatraz Behind the Scenes Tour

The Ultimate Alcatraz Experience

• 4 to 5 Hours
• Tuesday thru Saturday, Check-In Time: 2:15 PM and 2:45 PM until March 9th. Spring/Summer: 4:20 PM and 4:50 PM Check-in.
• Ferry ride to and from Alcatraz Island
• Two-hour Park Ranger guided tour with small group of 20 people or fewer tour guests
• Award-winning Cellhouse audio tour
• Additional programs and exhibits
• Docent guided tours and talks
• Adult Price: $109.30
• Seniors: $102.25
• Age 12-17: $105.10  

Thank you for visiting www.alcatrazislandtickets.com . Reservations and E-tickets are genuine for the tour which includes the ferry service. We also provide extended around-the-clock customer care seven days a week, including holidays. We're a private Customer Service and Booking company. Our goal is 100% customer satisfaction. Please share your experience with us at: Customer Care . This website isn't affiliated with any government entity and isn't the official box office. Total at checkout may exceed face value.  

• Plan Your Visit
• Frequenty Asked Questions
• Accessibility
• Check Confirmation

• What to See and Do
• Monuments & Tourist Attractions

Located in San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz was a solitary island for thousands of years until it was converted into a fort.  During the American Civil War more than 100 cannons and 400 soldiers were placed in the island so that it could be part of the United States’ defence plan. However, Alcatraz is, of course, known for being one of the most formidable prisons in the world. 

After being used in the Civil War,  in  the year 1934, Alcatraz changed into a federal penitentiary , a maximum-security prison where prisoners considered irrecoverable and dangerous were taken. Some of the most well-known inmates were Al Capone "Scarface", George "Machine Gun" Kelly, and Robert Stroud "The Birdman of Alcatraz" .

The inmates of Alcatraz tried to escape from the prison on fourteen occasions , but the most important attempt occurred in 1962 when Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers managed to flee by water.

In 1963 Alcatraz closed its gates permanently . The seawater had corroded the prison structures and the maintenance costs were excessively rising. The prison stopped being cost-effective and the prisoners were transferred to other penitentiaries.

Prison Break

In 1962, Frank Morris, John Anglin, and Clarence Anglin made a hole in each of their cells and left papier mache heads in their beds to avoid detection by the guards.

Although theoretically, they were able to swim to freedom, it's believed that they died in the freezing waters of the Pacific . Their bodies were never found.

We do not know whether it was a coincidence or not, but a year after the escape the most secure prison in the world closed its gates for good.

Visiting Alcatraz

"You have the right to receive food, clothing, shelter, and medical attention. Anything else that you receive is a privilege." Rule number 5 in Alcatraz gives you some idea of life in prison.

The adventure starts at Pier 33 in Embarcadero on Fisherman's Wharf . There you'll take a ferry that will take you to the island in around 15 minutes . Landing on the island is an emotional moment when we consider the number of prisoners who were taken there in the same way, but stayed there permanently.

As soon as you leave the boat you're given a complete guide and are taken to the cellblock area where audio guides are distributed (also available in other languages). Once you have put on the headphones, the visit to the best-known prison of all time begins .

The audio guide includes narrators who were themselves characters in the Alcatraz story . Four of them were prison employees who lived there with their families and four were prison inmates. They go with you at all times telling interesting stories about each cell and room in the prison.

You'll walk through the tiny cells , the canteen , and the library and you will also be able to see the recreation yard (through a small window).

The route will also take you via "Cell Block D" to the punishment cells where prisoners were placed for bad conduct . There they were kept isolated in the cold and darkness until they were driven, in some cases, to madness.

A visit to the Alcatraz prison is not to be missed; it's full of stories that can provoke strong emotions in its visitors .

Alcatraz on the Big Screen

This prison has been selected as a stage for many film successes such as Escape from Alcatraz, The Rock, Birdman of Alcatraz, and Prisoners of Alcatraz .

San Francisco Bay

Departures from the port : 8:45 am, 9:10 am, 9:30 am, 10:00 am, 10:30 am, 11:00 am, 11:30 am, 12:00 pm, 12:30 pm, 1:00 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:10 pm, 2:40 pm, 3:20 pm, 3:50 pm (evening departures at 5:55 pm and 6:30 pm). Departures from Alcatraz : 9:25 am, 9:55 am, 10:25 am, 10:55 am, 11:25 am, 12:25 pm, 12:55 pm, 1:25 pm, 1:55 pm, 2:35 pm, 3:10 pm, 3:45 pm, 4:15 pm, 4:45 pm, 5:15 pm, 5:55 pm, 6:30 pm (evening departures at 8:40 pm and 9:25 pm). Closed : 26th November (Thanksgiving), 25th December (Christmas Day) and 1st January (New Year's Day).

Adults: US$ 53.25 (evening price US$ 64.30) Children 5-11: US$ 35.55 (evening price  US$ 41) Seniors over 62: US$ 50.65 (evening price US$ 60.25) Children under 4 years old: free

San Francisco Tour + Alcatraz US$ 159

Boat from  pier 33 To reach the pier, take streetcar Line F

Nearby places

SS Jeremiah O'Brien (1.8 km) USS Pampanito Submarine (1.9 km) Musée Mécanique (2 km) Fisherman’s Wharf (2.1 km) Madame Tussauds Wax Museum (2.1 km)

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How to Visit Alcatraz “The Rock” Prison in San Francisco Bay

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: May 14, 2021  - Last updated: September 21, 2021

Categories North America , Destinations , USA

Visiting Alcatraz is one of those experiences that stays with you long afterward.

Tourist destinations vary wildly in how much they meet your expectations, but Alcatraz can capture the imagination of even the most cynical traveler.

Much of the reason for this is that you leave truly feeling that you’ve experienced the human side of the place.

San Francisco is home to many fun and trendy places which are worth a visit.

Visiting the infamous prison isn’t only about seeing the destination – there’s something about sharing the space the prisoners occupied that feels very real and very poignant.

San Francisco has so much to offer, but there are also tons of things to do around the city especially if you have a weekend to explore. Here are 17-weekend getaways from San Francisco you should check out, as well as awesome weekend and day trips .

The vibrant city also has incredible nightlife, and there are tons of things to do in San Francisco at night . 

If you visit San Francisco, don’t miss out on Alcatraz, “the Rock” prison because it’s such an integral part of the typical tourist itinerary. It’s truly an attraction not to be missed if you are in California.

Looking for other places to visit while you are exploring California, here are 35 Unmissable Things To Do In California ?

Alcatraz History

Alcatraz is one of those places everybody seems to have heard of, in part because of the famous 1979 movie, Escape from Alcatraz and the 1996 The Rock movie that followed. 

The institution often referred to as “The Rock,” was in operation as a federal prison for 29 years, between 1934 and 1963.

In that time, it housed such well-known criminals as Al Capone , George “Machine Gun” Kelly, and Robert Franklin Stroud (the “Birdman of Alcatraz”).

Despite Alcatraz’s relatively short stint as a federal prison, it had been used for incarceration previously.

Between 1910 and 1912 it served as a military prison for the United States Army.

Alcatraz housed 1,576 prisoners in its years of operation.

Why did Alcatraz close? 

A popular misconception is that it closed as a result of the famous escape of three prisoners in 1962. In fact, the far less interesting reason is that it closed down due to being excessively expensive and impractical to run.

Visiting the Rock, San Francisco: The Audio Tour

The award-winning audio tour for Alcatraz is included in the standard admission and is not to be missed.

It’s a self-guided tour available in a host of languages (Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish), and it takes you around the various areas of the prison.

The audio tour is included when you purchase your ferry ticket.

This isn’t a dry and boring tour, by any means (and we’ve all done those!). The facts are interspersed with sections of interviews with ex-residents and real inmates of the island during its prison days. There are also very well-integrated sound effects.

The overall experience of taking in the sights, sounds, and even smells of the famous San Fransisco prison, all at once, really elevates a trip to Alcatraz above a typical trek around a historic building.

Visit the Rock, Alcatraz: Highlights

The experience of Alcatraz begins as soon as you disembark from the boat.

The most striking thing is that it’s a beautiful place. Not only is the island rich in exotic flowers, but its location in San Francisco Bay is also stunning.

From here you can see the city, neighboring Marin County, Angel Island State Park, and the Golden Gate Bridge.

It’s impossible not to immediately realize how much this must have added to the prisoners’ punishments.

It’s one thing to visit a place like this as a tourist, but imagine being incarcerated with all of that beauty in such sharp focus!

As you work your way through the tour, you realize that these views are exactly what prisoners see from the dining hall as well, and this truly serves to emphasize the torment.

Inside, you can walk into open cells and even sit down on the hard “beds” for a true experience of what living in the prison was like.

The jangling of bars on your audio tour really adds to the atmosphere – fascinating and chilling in equal measure.

The cellblocks are definitely the parts of the prison that make most of an impression.

They’re such a contrast after zooming across the open water of the bay on your way to the island. This just seems to add to the experience and make everything feel more immersive.

As well as open cells, there are others you can peer into, complete with collections of fascinating exhibits.

Alcatraz Escapes

Two particularly interesting cells you can see are two of one used for the famous escape by Franck Morris, John Anglin and Clarence Anglin in 1962, complete with the hole used to escape, the escape is portrayed in the famous Hollywood movie Escape From Alcatraz with Clint Eastwood playing Frank Morris.

The audio tour fills you in on various escape attempts, including the famously successful one that saw three prisoners find freedom.

However, nobody knows if that freedom was short-lived, as many assume that the prisoners would never have survived the cold waters of the bay.

It’s certainly fascinating to ponder whether those people escaped – and are possibly still alive today – or whether they drowned in the sparkling waters just meters away.

There are plenty of conspiracy theories online for those curious to find out more!

Other Things to See on Alcatraz Island

Although it’s only natural to find yourself fascinated by the cellblocks, dining hall, and other inside areas, it’s well worth spending some time around the hilly exterior.

It adds an extra dimension to the experience, and you can also enjoy stunning views back to San Francisco.

It’s also worth noting that the “behind the scenes” tour gives you access to places that are otherwise out of bounds.

These include an underground communication tunnel, the chapel, and the creepy cells used for solitary confinement.

A visit to Alcatraz is the kind of thing you have dreams about in the nights to follow. Yes, it’s San Francisco’s main tourist attraction, so there’s no option but to follow the crowd.

However, the US National Parks Service, which runs Alcatraz, has done a great job in creating a unique and immersive experience.

How to Get to the Rock, Alcatraz Island

The journey to Alcatraz is an integral part of the experience. It’s a short 15-minute hop across San Francisco Bay on a ferry operated by Alcatraz Cruises .

You pick up the ferry from the city’s Pier 39, a short walk from the famous Fisherman’s Wharf.

Adult tickets start from $39.90 (at the time of writing), which includes entry to Alcatraz Island, and the audio tour we discuss below.

There are various other options available, including a (spooky) night tour, a “behind the scenes” option, which includes access to areas of the prison that are usually off-limits, and a combination ticket that also includes a trip to nearby Angel Island.

The first ferry leaves Pier 39 at 8.45 Am and after that every 30min until the last ferry at 15.30.

It’s worth noting that Alcatraz is a hugely popular attraction.

You should book ahead, especially in summer, as it’s not unusual to find ferries fully booked.

PRO TIP: Use one of the standing areas of the boat for better views, as you won’t see much sitting inside!

Visit Alcatraz Prison, The Rock in San Francisco, for an Unforgettable Time

If you’re a fan of dark tourism , the mysterious and the unusual, then a visit to Alcatraz prison is a great attraction to add to your bucket list. Armed with this Alcatraz guide, you’re sure to have an incredible time. 

Don’t forget to pack a polaroid camera to take some eerie photos of your own!

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American Airlines

Wednesday 30th of October 2019

Very nice post, it's very informative article, thanks for sharing this amazing post.

Esther Harris

Thursday 10th of October 2019

Wow! I really enjoy a lot reading your post, it was like been there, it's amazing that you can enter and see everything! About the 3 that got away, I'm going to investigate more about the conspiracy theories I didn't know about that! Thanks for sharing this experience, I hope someday go and know it by myself!