Alcatraz Island

"Start your day with the Early Bird Tour of Alcatraz, embarking from Pier 33 at 8:45 AM. I highly recommend this option but it’s definitely not a spur of the moment activity. Tickets to Alcatraz sell out months in advance with the Early Bird (first tour of the day) and Night Tour (last tour of the day) being the most difficult to come by, often selling out as soon as they go on sale 90 days before the tour date. Having done the Night Tour try to do the Early Bird option as it is substantially less packed than the regular day time tours. It is totally worth the extra effort to see Alcatraz uncrowded. Alcatraz means “pelican” in Spanish, a reference to the first inhabitants of this rocky island. It’s location in the middle of the bay is both strategic and exposed to harsh ocean winds. In 1859, the US Military established a fort at Alcatraz to guard the Bay. In 1907 it became a military prison and in 1934 it became a maximum-security federal penitentiary which it remained until 1963 when it was closed due to the extremely high cost to maintain. Commonly called “The Rock”, Alcatraz housed some of the most notorious criminals like Al “Scarface” Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly. Our kids have been enthralled with the stories on the award-winning audio tour included with admission. It is truly OUTSTANDING! I really can’t express that strongly enough. It is unlike any other audio tour we’ve ever done. Not only does it walk you step by step through the extensive prison complex you are immersed in the sounds and narratives of the island’s fascinating history from first-hand accounts of the actual guards and prisoners. You truly get a sense of what it was like to be in Alcatraz prison when it was in operation. You’ll even be walked through an extensive escape attempt and riots complete with sound effects and an exciting description of what later become known as the Battle of Alcatraz. From start to finish Alcatraz is one of our favorite experiences in San Francisco! TIP: Alcatraz Cruises is the one and only official tour boat that actually takes you to Alcatraz Island. It is best to book with them and not through a tour company that marks up the tickets. You can book 90 days in advance of your desired tour date."

"Visiting Alcatraz Island offers a fascinating journey through history as you explore the infamous former prison, once home to notorious criminals like Al Capone. The island features a self-guided audio tour, narrated by former inmates and guards, providing a vivid glimpse into life behind bars. Besides its intriguing past, Alcatraz also offers stunning views of San Francisco Bay, lush gardens, and diverse wildlife, making it a unique and memorable experience. Be sure to book tickets in advance, as this popular attraction often sells out!! Here are some more details: 💵We paid $45USD and this included the round trip ferry ride, tickets to Alcatraz itself, and the audio tour guide. 🚢We booked our tour through Alcatraz City Cruises. I highly recommend booking tickets in advance, during peak seasons they will sell out! Their boats depart from Pier 33 and it was recommended to arrive 45 minutes before our departure time. The pier had some cool informative outdoor exhibits to learn about Alcatraz while you await your departure! The ride to Alcatraz takes approximately 15 minutes. 🪨Once you arrive at the island, you’ll have to climb a bit of a hill to reach the actual prison complex! Once you arrive, pick up your audio guide and begin your self-guided tour! ⏰I’d recommend allowing 2-3 hours here! There’s lots to explore and you can also enjoy some beautiful views of the city and Golden Gate Bridge. From its intriguing past to its stunning views of San Francisco, a visit to Alcatraz is an experience like no other! "

"Step into the enigmatic past as you embark on an Alcatraz Island Tour, a journey that delves into the history of the notorious former penitentiary known as "The Rock." Accessible only by ferry, this captivating experience offers a unique blend of history, intrigue, and stunning bay views. Cruise across the San Francisco Bay to Alcatraz Island, where you'll step onto the shores that once housed some of America's most infamous criminals. Embark on an immersive audio tour that guides you through the eerie cellblocks, providing insights into the lives of inmates and the challenges faced by prison staff. Beyond the penitentiary's history, Alcatraz Island also boasts remarkable natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Gaze upon striking vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge, the city skyline, and the rolling waves that buffer the island's shores. The juxtaposition of rugged terrain and the stark remnants of prison life create an unforgettable atmosphere, one that immerses you in the tales of escape attempts, audacious criminals, and the daily life of those who lived and worked on the island. An Alcatraz Island Tour is more than a visit; it's a journey into the depths of history, crime, and human resilience that will leave an indelible mark on your understanding of San Francisco's rich and complex past."