The Official Ferry
Only Alcatraz City Cruises is authorized to land on the island; do not buy from resellers at Fisherman's Wharf.
Description
Alcatraz Island is eerie, fascinating, and absolutely worth the ferry ride. Once home to America’s most notorious prison, it now stands as a haunting historic site in the middle of San Francisco Bay. The audio tour is incredibly well-done, with real stories from former inmates and guards. The peeling walls and empty cells make it easy to imagine the past. Add in sweeping city views and seabirds circling overhead, and it’s both beautiful and unsettling. History with chills.
Highlights
- Legendary prison with gripping audio tour by former inmates.
- Bay views contrast the island’s stark history.
- Night tours add eerie atmosphere and stories.
Location
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Alcatraz Island, California, United States
Know Before You Go
Sell-Out Risk
Tickets for the "Night Tour" often sell out 8-10 weeks in advance; day tours sell out 3-4 weeks ahead in summer.
The Audio Tour
The "Doing Time" audio tour (included) is narrated by former inmates and guards - it is the core of the experience.
The Hill
The walk from the dock to the cellhouse is equivalent to a 13-story climb; an electric tram is available for those with mobility issues.
Weather
The "Rock" is notoriously windy and colder than the mainland; even on sunny days, bring a windbreaker.
Example Itinerary
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13:00
Board the Ferry at Pier 33
Head to San Francisco’s northern waterfront to catch the official Alcatraz City Cruises passenger ferry out into the bay. -
14:00
Visit Alcatraz Island
Step onto the rocky island and pick up your headset for the legendary, immersive "Doing Time" audio tour through the main cellhouse. -
16:00
Explore the Citadel Grounds
Walk past the historic ruins of the warden's house and check out the vibrant island gardens and nesting seabird colonies. -
18:30
Return to Fisherman's Wharf
Cruise back across the chilly bay waters by nightfall to catch dinner at a historic seafood joint on the piers.
