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

Alcatraz Tours and Tickets

15,094 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!
Neil_M, Jan 2025
Must do visit when in San Francisco
You have to find your own way to the ferry terminal. The direct route is very hilly so you either need to ride in a taxi or walk the flat route around the coast. Alcatraz visit is good but busy and takes almost 3 hours. The bay cruise is only an hour.
Matthew_S, Dec 2024
Best Experience on Tour
This tour was one of my favorite experiences ever. I’m very particular about traveling and this tour took a lot of stress off of us. It was amazing to see a lot of San Francisco and its neighborhoods and sights. Alcatraz was amazing and definitely worth it. Thank you Patrick, at Dylan’s Tours. It was a blast and tell Tom Brady to come play a season with the 9ers.
Bivishbal_T, Dec 2024
Good option if you cannot do Alcatraz direct booking in advance
It was pricey. For unplanned and short notice trip, it's a good option. You are paying the premium for not planning ahead. The direct booking for Alcatraz is always full and you need to book it in advance. For those who cannot do it, this is a good option.
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.