Alcatraz
Alcatraz prison facilities in San Francisco, USA
Alcatraz prison facilities in San Francisco, USA

Alcatraz Tours and Tickets

14,958 reviews

A former federal prison that held notorious criminals Al “Scarface” Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly, Alcatraz is now a national historic landmark and one of the most sought-out (and sold-out) attractions in the San Francisco Bay Area. Highlights include touring what’s left of the maximum-security facility, hearing stories from former inmates, and sailing past the Golden Gate Bridge to reach the craggy isle.

  • Ferries depart from Pier 33, San Francisco, California, 94113

Tours and Tickets to Experience Alcatraz

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What are people saying about Alcatraz

The_b, Sep 2024
Alcatraz during summer 24
Really enjoyed the ride in the boat. It was cleaned and the personnel was polite. Alcatraz is a piece of San Francisco history and it should be kept better. I loved the Audio tour!
kenneth_l, Dec 2024
Hop
Enjoyed our day trip to Alcatraz Island also tour on hop bus round San Francisco was brilliant 👏 will do again in future
Jackie_H, Dec 2024
A must do!
Easy and interesting tour to do at own pace. Very informative and well organised on Alcatraz. Lovely city views if San Francisco from the Bay.
Nicky_Q, Nov 2024
A must do!
Alcatraz tour was very interesting, walked with a tour guide for a while before doing the audio tour. Bay cruise was great especially as we got the most beautiful sunset pictures.
People Also Ask
Q:How long is the ferry ride to Alcatraz?
A:
The ferry ride over to Alcatraz is about 12 to 15 minutes, but keep in mind the ride back will also be the same amount of time, making it a 30-minute round-trip. The great part about the ferry ride to Alcatraz is that you’ll take in some awesome views of San Francisco.
Q:Does Alcatraz have bathrooms?
A:
Yes, the good news is that Alcatraz does have bathrooms for public use. There are two on the island with one conveniently located near the ferry terminal. Plus, most of the ferries that take visitors to and from the island also will have restrooms for public use.
Q:What time of day is best to visit Alcatraz?
A:
During the day is the best time to visit Alcatraz—particularly the early morning— because you’ll get to see places that aren’t available to nighttime visitors. Plus, booking onto the earliest tour of the day makes you the first group on the island. For those looking for a spooky time, nighttime visits may be best.
Q:Can you go to Alcatraz without a tour?
A:
No, you cannot visit Alcatraz without a tour. All tours include tickets booked through Alcatraz City Tours. The Alcatraz docks only offer access to this company and so you have to book in advance to be able to visit the historical prison and the island it calls home.
Q:Can you take pictures at Alcatraz?
A:
Yes, you can take pictures at Alcatraz and on the island. In fact, Alcatraz is a very popular place for travelers to take their selfie photos. The only exception to taking pics is during some special events that take place on the island such as the Native American Sunrise Ceremony.
Q:Can you eat on Alcatraz Island?
A:
Yes, you can eat on Alcatraz Island, but you can only eat on the dock. There is even a designated picnic area on the dock especially for those who want to stop to eat before or after their tour. All food and drinks must stay in that area with the exception being bottled water.