Alcatraz Island: The Rock
Explore the infamous former prison on Alcatraz Island, a national park offering a chilling glimpse into American incarceration and stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
Alcatraz Island, a former prison in the middle of the San Francisco Bay, is one of the city's most popular and iconic attractions. Often referred to as "The Rock," this small island has served many purposes throughout its history, including a military fortification, a military prison, and, most famously, a federal penitentiary from 1934 to 1963. Today, Alcatraz is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and welcomes over a million visitors each year who come to explore its complex history and experience the chilling atmosphere of the infamous prison. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and tour the cell house, where they can learn about the lives of the prisoners who were once incarcerated there, including notorious criminals like Al Capone and Robert Stroud, the "Birdman of Alcatraz."
A brief summary to Alcatraz Island
- San Francisco, California, 94133, US
- +1415-561-4900
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your Alcatraz tickets well in advance, especially during peak season, as they often sell out weeks or even months ahead of time.
- Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers, as the weather on Alcatraz can be unpredictable and involve a lot of walking.
- Take the first ferry of the day to avoid crowds and have a more immersive experience.
- Utilize the accessible S.E.A.T. tram if you have mobility issues, as the island has steep inclines.
- Allow at least 2.5 to 3 hours for your visit to fully explore the island and take the audio tour.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Alcatraz Island, make your way to Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing on The Embarcadero, near Fisherman's Wharf. From Fisherman's Wharf, you can take the F Line streetcar towards the Ferry Building and disembark at the Bay Street stop. Pier 33 is located across the street. A one-way fare on the F Line is $3, payable in cash (exact change) or via the MuniMobile app.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Alternatively, from anywhere in San Francisco, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber/Lyft) directly to Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing. A ride from Union Square to Pier 33 typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and demand.
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Ferry
The final leg to Alcatraz Island is exclusively via Alcatraz City Cruises ferry, the official and only authorized ferry service. Purchase tickets in advance online, as they often sell out. Round-trip ferry tickets, which include the Alcatraz Cellhouse Audio Tour, cost approximately $46 for adults, $38.66 for seniors (62+), and $25 for children (5-11). The ferry ride is approximately 15 minutes each way.
Discover more about Alcatraz Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Alcatraz Lighthouse
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Eureka Steamboat
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C.A. Thayer
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1890 San Francisco Bay Ark
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Black Point
2.1 km
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2905 Hyde St
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Pier 43 Ferry Arch
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Fisherman's Wharf
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Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
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Site of John C Frémont and Jessie Benton Frémont home
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California Historical Landmark 236: First Ship into San Francisco Bay
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Black Point Historic Gardens
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San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park
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Maritime Museum
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PIER 39
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Unmissable attractions to see
SS Jeremiah O'Brien
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Fishermans Wharf
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USS Pampanito Museum and Memorial
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Scoma's Restaurant
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Musée Mécanique
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Sea Lion Viewing Area
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Hyde Street Pier
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The San Francisco Sailing Company
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Sea Lions
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Red and White Fleet San Francisco Bay Cruises
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San Francisco Carousel at Pier 39
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Essential places to dine
Franciscan Crab Restaurant
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The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House
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Cioppino's
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Capurro's Restaurant
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Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
2.2 km
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Crab House at Pier 39
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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
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Eagle Cafe
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Gary Danko
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Fior d'Italia
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Original Joe's
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Red Window
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Sotto Mare
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ess Eff Gift Shop (Inside)
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Frank's Fisherman
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Safe Harbor
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Enlightenment
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Solve It! Think out of the box
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I Love SF
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Fairy Tales
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The Cable Car Store
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Under the Golden Gate
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Only In San Francisco
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Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience
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Route 66
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Lola of North Beach
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Missing Audrey Vintage
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Vacation
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Luau Lounge
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Players Sports Grill & Arcade
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The Socialite Crafthouse & Kitchen
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Hard Rock Cafe
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Northpoint Craft Cocktails - Local Brews
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The Interval at Long Now
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Red Jack Saloon
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Sweetie's Art Bar
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Bodega North Beach
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Bar Iris
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Tony Nik's CAFE
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Gino & Carlo
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Maggie McGarry's
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The Showdown
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The Saloon
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