Alcatraz Island: The Rock
Explore the infamous former prison, military fort, and natural beauty of Alcatraz Island, a historic landmark in the heart of San Francisco Bay.
Alcatraz Island, a small island in San Francisco Bay, served as a military fortification and prison before becoming a notorious federal penitentiary in 1934. Its isolation and harsh conditions earned it the nickname 'The Rock'. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction managed by the National Park Service, offering insights into its complex history.
A brief summary to Alcatraz Island
- San Francisco, California, 94133, US
- +1415-561-4900
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your ferry tickets well in advance, especially during peak season, as they often sell out.
- Arrive at Pier 33 at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled ferry departure.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a steep, 1/4 mile walk from the dock to the prison.
- Take advantage of the self-guided audio tour to learn about the prison's history from former inmates and guards.
- Consider a night tour for a unique and potentially spooky experience with special programs and activities.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Alcatraz Island, take public transportation to Pier 33, where the Alcatraz City Cruises ferry departs. From many points in San Francisco, the Muni F Line streetcar is a convenient option. Get off at the 'Bay Street' stop and walk one block south to Pier 33. A single ride on Muni costs around $3. Alternatively, from the East Bay, take BART to the Embarcadero Station and transfer to the F Line. Purchase ferry tickets in advance from Alcatraz City Cruises.
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Walking
If you are near Fisherman's Wharf or Pier 39, walking to Pier 33 is a straightforward option. Pier 33 is located along The Embarcadero, southeast of Fisherman's Wharf. From Pier 39, walk along The Embarcadero for about 15-20 minutes to reach Pier 33. Purchase ferry tickets in advance from Alcatraz City Cruises.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly at Pier 33. A ride from Union Square to Pier 33 will cost approximately $12-$15 and take about 5 minutes, depending on traffic. Be sure to book your Alcatraz ferry tickets in advance through Alcatraz City Cruises.
Discover more about Alcatraz Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alcatraz Lighthouse
0.1 km
Discover the historic Alcatraz Lighthouse, the first beacon on the West Coast, offering a glimpse into maritime history and stunning views of San Francisco Bay from the infamous Alcatraz Island.
Eureka Steamboat
2.0 km
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C.A. Thayer
2.0 km
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1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
2.1 km
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Black Point
2.1 km
Experience the historical allure and stunning vistas of Black Point, a premier tourist attraction in San Francisco's Fort Mason.
2905 Hyde St
2.1 km
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Pier 43 Ferry Arch
2.1 km
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Fisherman's Wharf
2.2 km
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Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
2.2 km
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Site of John C Frémont and Jessie Benton Frémont home
2.2 km
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California Historical Landmark 236: First Ship into San Francisco Bay
2.2 km
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Black Point Historic Gardens
2.2 km
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San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
2.3 km
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Maritime Museum
2.3 km
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PIER 39
2.3 km
Experience the best of San Francisco at PIER 39, where shopping, dining, and stunning views come together in a vibrant waterfront setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
SS Jeremiah O'Brien
1.8 km
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Fishermans Wharf
1.9 km
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USS Pampanito Museum and Memorial
2.0 km
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Scoma's Restaurant
2.0 km
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Musée Mécanique
2.1 km
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Sea Lion Viewing Area
2.1 km
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Hyde Street Pier
2.1 km
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The San Francisco Sailing Company
2.1 km
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Sea Lions
2.1 km
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Red and White Fleet San Francisco Bay Cruises
2.1 km
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San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39
2.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Franciscan Crab Restaurant
2.1 km
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The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House
2.1 km
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Cioppino's
2.1 km
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Capurro's Restaurant
2.1 km
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Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
2.2 km
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Crab House at Pier 39
2.2 km
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Fog Harbor Fish House
2.3 km
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Wipeout Bar & Grill
2.3 km
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Surisan
2.3 km
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Eagle Cafe
2.3 km
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Gary Danko
2.4 km
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Fior d'Italia
2.7 km
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Original Joe's
3.2 km
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Red Window
3.2 km
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Sotto Mare
3.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ess Eff Gift Shop (Inside)
2.1 km
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Frank's Fisherman
2.1 km
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Safe Harbor
2.1 km
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Enlightenment
2.2 km
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Solve It! Think out of the box
2.2 km
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I Love SF
2.2 km
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Fairy Tales
2.2 km
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The Cable Car Store
2.2 km
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Under the Golden Gate
2.3 km
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Only In San Francisco
2.3 km
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Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience
2.3 km
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Route 66
2.3 km
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Lola of North Beach
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Missing Audrey Vintage
3.0 km
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Vacation
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Luau Lounge
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Players Sports Grill & Arcade
2.1 km
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The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen
2.2 km
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Hard Rock Cafe
2.3 km
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Northpoint Craft Cocktails - Local Brews
2.4 km
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The Interval at Long Now
2.4 km
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Red Jack Saloon
2.6 km
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Sweetie's Art Bar
2.6 km
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Bodega North Beach
3.0 km
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Bar Iris
3.2 km
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Tony Nik's CAFE
3.2 km
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Gino & Carlo
3.3 km
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Maggie McGarry's
3.3 km
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The Showdown
3.4 km
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The Saloon
3.5 km
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