No trip to San Francisco is complete without experiencing Alcatraz Island, a must-see destination with over 1.4 million visitors annually!
As one of the city’s most famous landmarks, it's no wonder our combination Alcatraz Island tours are among the most popular in San Francisco.
Where is Alcatraz?
Situated in the heart of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island stands as a symbol of history and intrigue. It lies south of Angel Island, west of Treasure Island, east of the Golden Gate Bridge, and north of Fisherman’s Wharf. Just 1.25 miles (2 km) offshore from the lively city, the island is easily accessible by ferry. The journey offers stunning views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline.
History of Alcatraz
To truly immerse yourself in Alcatraz’s history, nothing beats an Alcatraz Island tour! Our tours feature the iconic audio presentation Doing Time, which runs for 45 fascinating minutes. This tour, narrated by former prisoners and correctional officers, brings the history of Alcatraz to life. Available in multiple languages including English, Spanish, Japanese, German, China, French, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, and Korean, it’s an unforgettable experience.
Why is Alcatraz So Popular?
Alcatraz captivates visitors with its tumultuous history, mysterious atmosphere, and stunning views. People come to the island to explore its eerie cellblocks, learn about daring escape attempts, and enjoy panoramic vistas of the bay. Whether you're a history enthusiast or looking for a unique adventure, Alcatraz offers an experience unlike any other. This distinctive quality is what makes it San Francisco’s top tourist attraction.
How Do You Get to Alcatraz?
Due to it's location, Alcatraz is accessible only by ferry. Ferries depart from Pier 33 and take visitors on a scenic 15-minute journey across the bay. This thrilling ride sets the stage for your adventure as you approach the prison, which looms larger and more imposing the farther you travel from the mainland.
Should You Visit Alcatraz During the Day or at Night?
Alcatraz offers a unique experience both during the day and at night, with each time offering it's own distinct charm. However, there's something especially captivating about the night tours. These excursions provide an atmospheric look into the island’s eerie side, featuring guided walks through dimly lit cellblocks and spine-chilling tales of ghostly encounters. Plus, night tours give you exclusive access to areas of the island that are closed during the day.
What Are the Highlights of an Alcatraz Tour?
Alcatraz offers a variety of fascinating sights that captivate visitors of all ages. Some key highlights include:
The Cellhouse: Step inside the infamous Cellhouse and imagine life behind bar for some of Alcatraz’s most notorious inmates. Explore the prison cells, dining hall, and library, and learn about the daily routines and escape attempts of its residents.
The Rest of the Rock: Take a stroll around the island to see other notable features, such as the lighthouse, water tower, New Industries building, recreation yard, and the remains of the warden’s house.
Native American Occupation: During the tour, you’ll hear about the 1969 Native American occupation of Alcatraz Island. This 19-month peaceful protest aimed to reclaim the land as their own.
Views of the City: While there are many great views of San Francisco, Alcatraz offers some of the most unique, with a perspective of the city and bay you can't find anywhere else!
