San Francisco - Alcatraz Island National Park - Helpful Travel Information


Alcatraz Island national park has a lighthouse, fort, gardens, bird colonies, gorgeous views, and Alcatraz Penitentiary.

Alcatraz closed in 1963 and later became a tourist attraction in the late 70’s.

While in its hay day, Alcatraz imprisoned Al Capone and the "Birdman", the basis for the fictional movie The Birdman of Alcatraz).

Take the ferry, tour the prison grounds, and listen to some interesting stories about the inmates, guards, and Island History.

Tickets: Big Bus San Francisco Sightseeing and Alcatraz Combo

More useful information below in this Alcatraz Island Travel Guide for new Visitors to San Francisco.

 

Address

 

San Francisco, CA 94133

 

Admission Fee and Hours

Alcatraz Island Admission :

Fee for Cruise ride to Island

To purchase Alcatraz tour tickets call (415) 981-7625 or

go directly to Alcatraz Island Cruises website

Alcatraz Island Hours :

The hours of operation vary with the season

The first departure starts at 8:45 am daily and goes every hour

Limited seats are available on the Alcatraz Cruises, therefore book online before coming here.

Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's day

 

Getting There

 

Use this trip planner for directions to Pier -33 for Alcatraz Island Cruises

 

Recommendations

 

• You can only get to the Island by Ferry so buy them ahead of time!

• Take a jacket because it will be windy and cold even in the warmer months.

• Take public transportation or a bike if possible to pier 33. There is no parking for the pier.

• Take snacks and water with you, especially if you have young children.

• Try Alcatraz Island Tour from San Francisco Bay - to Explore one of California's most iconic Alcatraz Island from San Francisco Bay

 

Website

 

National Park Service Website for Alcatraz Island
Big Bus San Francisco Sightseeing and Alcatraz Combo - $110.00

See all of San Francisco's top attractions with this special Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour and combo package. Create your own sightseeing itinerary, hopping on and off as you please at stops including Fisherman’s Wharf, the Golden Gate Bridge, Union Square and Lombard Street. You'll also walk three famous San Francisco neighborhoods with a guide and choose between a Panoramic Night Tour or a Sausalito Trolley Hop . High point: a visit to the notorious prison of Alcatraz — a must-see!