Can you still tour Alcatraz?
Alcatraz is currently a self-guided experience as staff-led tours are not offered at this time. Visitors will be able to explore the windswept island and learn about its layered history through outdoor interpretive signs, a Discovery Guide island map, and exhibits.
What is the best tour of Alcatraz?
Which alcatraz tour is best?
- Dylan's Tours 1-Day Alcatraz Experience.
- San Francisco City Tour + Alcatraz Tour and Alcatraz + 3-Hour San Francisco City Tour by SF Excursions.
- Early access to Alcatraz and exclusive cable car sightseeing tour by Hornblower Classic Cable Cars.
What is the best way to visit Alcatraz?
- Departure Point: Part 1 – Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing; Part 2 – Union Square
- Departure Time: Please check with the operator.
- Duration: 8 hours (approx.)
- Includes: Admission to Muir Woods, transport by coach to Muir Woods and Sausalito round-trip ferry from San Francisco to Alcatraz Island, audio walking tour of Alcatraz
What are some tips for visiting Alcatraz?
- Ferries leave from Pier 33 just south of Fisherman's Wharf.
- Your ticket is timed and you can only take that ferry to Alcatraz.
- Arrive no less than 20 to 30 minutes before the time on your ticket.
- Bring as little as possible as there are no storage lockers.
- Wear a jacket or sweater as the ride over to the island gets chilly.
Where does the Alcatraz ferry leave from?
Pier 33Alcatraz City Cruises - Pier 33 The only way to get to Alcatraz is by a ferry operated by Alcatraz City Cruises, LLC. They are located on The Embarcadero near the intersection of Bay Street - just a bit south east of Fisherman's Wharf. There is no parking at Pier 33. See map below.
How long is ferry ride from Pier 33 to Alcatraz?
approximately 12-15 minutesThe ride from Alcatraz Island to Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing is approximately 12-15 minutes. Boats are loaded on a first-come first-serve basis.
Can you see Alcatraz from Pier 39?
PIER 39 is home to two levels of unique specialty shops that are surrounded by stunning views of the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges, Alcatraz Island and the famous San Francisco city skyline.
Can you buy Alcatraz tickets at the pier?
Alcatraz Island tickets can be purchased online, over the phone or at the Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing Ticketbooth.
How early should I arrive for Alcatraz tour?
To allow ample time for screening, it is strongly recommend that you arrive at Alcatraz Landing at least 45 minutes prior to your departure time. Due to social distancing requirements in the Cellhouse, there may be a lengthy wait for the Cellhouse Audio Tour.
Is it better to visit Alcatraz in the morning or afternoon?
Is it better to visit Alcatraz in the morning or afternoon? Early morning is best if you prefer to go when the island is less crowded. Midday is best if you prefer a warmer day and sunny skies. I took the photo below on the Agave Trail about 1pm in early December.
Is Pier 39 same as Fisherman's Wharf?
San Francisco, CA Activities Pier 39 is in San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf, at Beach St. and The Embarcadero. With amazing views, shopping & dining, a colony of sea lions, and chowder bread bowls, there is no shortage of things to do and see at Pier 39.
Is the Alcatraz behind the scenes tour worth it?
6 answers. Behind the Scenes is definitely worth the extra money, especially since it goes back into maintaining and renovating Alcatraz. The audio tour is included in all tours so it is nice to have a guide with you for part of the time. You get to go down into the moat which is very interesting.
Do Alcatraz tours go inside?
Though the number of people on the tour is limited, you can go inside the cell block now and do the self-guided audio tour, plus see the exhibit in the New Industries Building. Starting Nov 8, 2021, the day tours run Fri-Sun 8:50-2; Mon-Thur 9:10-2. See Alcatraz tours for details and bookings.
Can you bring bags to Alcatraz?
Bags larger than a standard backpack, 16” x 20”, are not allowed on Alcatraz Island. Visitors with luggage or oversized packages and bags will be unable to board Alcatraz City Cruises vessels or visit Alcatraz Island and will receive refunds.
What is the best place to get Alcatraz tickets?
Book them through the http://www.alcatrazcruises.com website- they go on sale 90 days in advance. This is the official site for tickets-I believe other companies buy them from here and sell them on at a profit.
Can you take the ferry to Alcatraz without a tour?
Is Alcatraz open to the public? Alcatraz is open to public tours. However, the Alcatraz docks are exclusively available to one ferry line, Alcatraz Cruises. So, the only way the public can visit this famous jail in San Francisco is to buy a tour and take one of the official Alcatraz ferries.
How often does the Alcatraz ferry run?
approximately every thirty to forty minutesThe ferry, operated by Alcatraz City Cruises, runs approximately every thirty to forty minutes to and from Alcatraz. You may return to San Francisco on any ferry. The island closes for the day at 6:30pm in the summer, and 4:30pm in fall, winter and spring.
How much is the ferry ride to Alcatraz?
Departure Schedule Alcatraz City CruisesBay Discovery CruisePriceAdult 18-61 years old$40.00Junior 12-17 years old$40.00Children 5-11 years old$25.00Senior 62+ years old$35.001 more row
What Pier is the ferry to Alcatraz?
Pier 33Pier 33 under a blue sky. Pier 33 is located along San Francisco's Embarcadero. This is the spot to catch the ferry that whisks you away for an experience of a lifetime on Alcatraz!
Is it worth it to go to Alcatraz?
Alcatraz Island has a story so intriguing it draws in over 1.5 million visitors each year. But is the Alcatraz Tour worth your valuable time and money? In short, the answer is yes.
Where do Alcatraz cruises leave?
Alcatraz Cruises leave from Pier 33. If you've been to San Francisco before, be aware that the ticket booth and departure dock moved several years ago.
How to see what you see on Alcatraz?
You can get a look at what you'll see on the Alcatraz tour by visiting the Alcatraz slideshow.
How to see two San Francisco Bay Islands in one day?
To see two San Francisco Bay islands in one day, take the Alcatraz & Angel Island Tour which will also take you to Angel Island .
What is the name of the rock in San Francisco Bay?
Spanish Explorer Manuel de Ayala named this barren rock in the middle of San Francisco Bay Isla de los Alcatraces (Island of the Pelicans). The island called Alcatraz has been used as a Civil War fort, a Federal prison and a symbol of Native American plight. Today, the National Park Service runs Alcatraz Island as a tourist attraction.
What to do if you miss your boat at Alcatraz?
Otherwise, you could end up gabbing away with your friends and not able to figure out where you should be going. If that happens, ask a ranger or tour guide for help. If you miss your boat, don't despair. The ticket office can direct you to the standby line for the next one. To see Alcatraz, you'll walk — a lot.
When do Alcatraz tickets sell out?
Alcatraz tour tickets sell out fast. The official brochures say tickets sell out as early as a week in advance in the summer and on holiday weekends. When checked on a July Friday, they were sold out until the following Tuesday. Tickets not used by hotels are released to the Alcatraz ticket booth just before it opens.
How long does it take to visit Alcatraz?
Most visitors spend at least a few hours on Alcatraz. Snacks and water are essential to keep everyone from getting "hangry" or thirsty.
Where is Pier 33 in Alcatraz?
They are located on The Embarcadero near the intersection of Bay Street - just a bit south east of Fisherman's Wharf. There is no parking at Pier 33.
How much does it cost to park at Alcatraz?
Be aware that prices for parking in this area can vary greatly, as little as $8-10 for all day, to as high as $6 an hour. As a visit to Alcatraz can easily take 2 to 3 hours (or more) it can be worth while to shop around for parking. It is even better to take public transportation when possible. Public Transportation.
Where is the drop off zone at Alcatraz?
An "Accessibility Drop Off Zone" is located at the entrance to Alcatraz Cruises - Pier 33 for visitors with special needs arriving by automobile. There are fifteen commercial lots within a five-block radius of the Alcatraz Cruises - Pier 33, with a total of more than 3,000 parking spaces.
What is the best way to get around San Francisco?
Public Transportation. When in San Francisco public transportation is the best way to get around. The Muni F Line runs along Market Street (east) then turns north on The Embarcadero, and runs right past the ferry terminal (on your right) and then on through Fisherman's Wharf.
What is the ferry service for Alcatraz?
The most important thing to know when planning a trip to Alcatraz is that all access to the island is through a private ferry company under contract with the National Park Service, Alcatraz City Cruises LLC.
How to dress for Alcatraz?
The best advice is always to dress in layers. Wear rain gear during wet winter months. (Rain gear is available for purchase at the bookstores.)
Is there parking at Alcatraz?
Note that there is no parking available at Alcatraz Landing. On-street parking in the Fisherman's Wharf area can be hard to find, and nearly every space has a parking meter. Most meters are time limited and unlikely to allow enough time for an Alcatraz visit.
Is Alcatraz accessible?
Alcatraz Landing at Pier 33 in San Francisco is fully accessible. There is limited accessible parking at Pier 33, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Individuals need to show their permanent or temporary disabled placard at the entry of Pier 33 to utilize the accessible parking spaces.
Where do the ferry rides leave from in Alcatraz?
Ferries leave from Pier 33 just south of Fisherman's Wharf. Your ticket is timed and you can only take that ferry to Alcatraz. Arrive no less than 20 to 30 minutes before the time on your ticket. Bring as little as possible as there are no storage lockers.
Who operates the Alcatraz ferry?
The ferry is currently operated by a company called Alcatraz Cruises. They operate all of their ferries out of Pier 33. This is a change from previous years, when the ferry to Alcatraz left from Pier 42.
How do I know which ferry to take to return to San Francisco?
Before you head over to visit Alcatraz, you might also want to plan for which return ferry you want to take. You will find this sign in a number of places. They are strict about leaving on time, so arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes in advance to secure your place on your return ferry.
How to get to Pier 33?
One option to get to Pier 33 is to take the F streetcar line from Union Square. This streetcar runs about every 15 minutes up and down Market Street.
What happens when you arrive at Alcatraz?
When you arrive to visit Alcatraz, everyone on the ferry will get off at the one and only stop.
How long is the Alcatraz hill?
It's not a race, so feel free to take your time getting up the hill. The hill is about a fourth of a mile long.
How far in advance can you take a ferry back to San Francisco?
You will find this sign in a number of places. They are strict about leaving on time, so arrive at least 10 to 15 minutes in advance to secure your place on your return ferry. You can take any ferry back to San Francisco after your visit.
What to expect on Alcatraz night tour?
What to Expect on the Alcatraz Night Tour. After you get off the ferry, the Alcatraz night tour starts with a brief overview of what to expect given by one of the rangers. This is the same as during the day but includes information on additional things to do that evening. As you walk up the hill to the main cell house, ...
How far in advance can you book Alcatraz?
The best way to get your tickets for the Alcatraz Night Tour is to book them as soon as they are available which is 90 days in advance. Not only do they run on a limited schedule, but they also only allow a few hundred people per tour. This creates a more intimate visiting experience, but it also creates high demand for these tickets.
When does the ferry leave San Francisco?
While the times change a little each season, you can expect the first ferry during the spring, summer, and fall months (roughly March - October) to leave San Francisco at around 6pm. The second one leaves around 6:30pm.
Is Alcatraz night tour good?
The Alcatraz night tour offers a more personalized option for visiting this top San Francisco attraction. This is also a great option for anyone who has already visited during the day and is looking to experience something a little different.
Does Alcatraz have a hop on hop off bus?
The one I recommend often is the one through GetYourGuide. This Alcatraz tour package includes the day trip to Alcatraz as well as a 1-day ticket for their Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour. You can see several of our most popular attractions with the easy of their bus tour that takes you right to each one. Find out more about the tickets on GetYourGuide.
What time does Alcatraz Island tour start?
The hours of operation vary with the season. Departures are available about every half hour throughout the day beginning at 8:45am. Evening tours, Behind the Scenes Tours, and combined Angel Island-Alcatraz Island tours are also available on a set schedule.
Why is Alcatraz closed?
There are various locations on the island that are closed off to the general public certain times of the year, due to the nesting of a variety of sea birds. Special Programs: There are various ranger-led programs on a daily basis on Alcatraz.
Where is Alcatraz Island?
Phone: (415) 561-4900. Location: Alcatraz Island is located in the middle of the San Francisco Bay. A ferry, located at Piers 31-33 (cross streets of Embarcadero & Bay Street) will take you to the island.
Where is the bathroom on the island?
Available Facilities: There are limited bathroom facilities on the island. They are located at the dock and at the top of the island. Food service is available on the ferry—there is no food service on the island. Picnic areas are designated only at the dock.
Is Alcatraz closed on Christmas?
Alcatraz is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day. Be aware that Alcatraz often sells out in advance. In summer and around holidays tickets can sell out a month or more in advance. Tickets go on sale 90 days in advance.
Can you smoke in the dock?
Smoking is only allowed in designated areas on the dock.
Is Alcatraz closed on Thanksgiving?
Once on the island you can stay as long as you wish up to the last ferry, which changes seasonally. Alcatraz is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day.
What time is the Alcatraz tour?
Night Tour – 5.55pm and 6.30pm (Tuesday through Saturday only). Alcatraz and Angel Island Tour – 9.30am and 9.40am. However, at the time of writing during COVID-19 in September 2020, there are only 5 ferry times per day and only the Day Tour is in operation: Day Tour – 11.00am, 12.00pm, 1.00pm, 2.00pm and 3.00pm.
When was Alcatraz opened?
In 1973 Alcatraz was opened to the general public as a museum under the National Park Service. Alcatraz remains one of the most popular park service sites and receives over 1 million visitors each year.
How long was Alcatraz deserted?
It simply wasn’t cost effective to maintain the prison any longer. Following the closure of Alcatraz prison, the island was left deserted and abandoned for 6 years.
Why was Alcatraz a symbol of the Department of Justice?
Following rampant crime in the 1920’s and 1930’s, Alcatraz was the perfect symbol for the Department of Justice to show its citizens they were taking crime seriously. The prison was categorized as maximum security and minimum privilege and opened in 1933.
How many people visit Alcatraz Island each year?
Alcatraz Island has a story so intriguing it draws in over 1.5 million visitors each year. But is the Alcatraz Tour worth your valuable time and money?
What would Alcatraz be?
Alcatraz would be the new home for those who were incapable of reform or who had gained cultural repute.
Why was the Alcatraz fortress built?
Following the Gold Rush and booming of San Francisco in the 1850’s, the US military built a fortress at the top of Alcatraz to protect the bay from Naval invasion.
