San Francisco: Alcatraz Island Ticket Chinatown and North Beach

US

Included

  • inclusion
    Tasting and demonstration at golden gate fortune cookie factory
  • inclusion
    Expert local guide
  • inclusion
    Special hand-made, custom fortune cookie to go
  • inclusion
    Official alcatraz ticket, including ferry ride to the island (value $45.25)
  • inclusion
    Guided walking tour of chinatown and north beach

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities
  • exclusion
    Lunch
  • exclusion
    Hotel pick-up/drop-off

Meeting Point

Meeting Point: 10 Mark Lane (The Irish Bank) Your guide will be holding a Walks sign.

Meeting point

10 Mark Ln, San Francisco, CA 94108 , United States

End point

End Point

End point varies

Meeting point

California , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Chinatown

Begin your day with your local expert near Chinatown for an incredible stroll through this eclectic, historic neighborhood. Instead of sensationalizing the past (true history is sensational enough) your expert guide will lead you through the rise of the Gold Rush with its brothels and opium dens but also bring you to sites like a local pharmacy to see how Chinese medicine is still prominent. Along the way, they will point out the strictly local spots and dive deep into the past.

Duration 90 minutes
2

Grant Avenue

As you begin your journey into the heart of the neighborhood, learn of the flood of immigration in the mid-19th century (and why!), the thriving businesses that post up on these streets, and all the vice that followed.

Duration 20 minutes
3
Dragon's Gate

Visit this traditional "Paifang" style entrance flocked by two Imperial guardian lions (shishi) protects the southern entrance into a land where wonder greets history. It is here your guide will set the stage - quickly dissecting the symbolism within its concrete.

4
Old Cathedral of St. Mary

As you visit sites of significance such as Old St. Mary's Cathedral and Square, your local guide will divulge the sometimes "too incredible to believe" stories and factual history paving the way for Chinatown's significance not only in San Francisco but the story of the United States.

Duration 10 minutes
5
Chinatown Alleys

Weave your way through small thoroughfares covered in old brick with ornate Chinese elements including the daily goings of the local people.

Duration 10 minutes
6
Golden Gate Fortune Cookies Co

Cap your time with a visit to the famed Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory where warm treats await you! See these handmade cookies come off the oven and take home a custom treat just for you!

Duration 15 minutes
Admission Admission Included
7

North Beach

Wander into North Beach, San Francisco's Little Italy. Hear tales of Beat Poets and the Italian immigrants who settled along the shores of San Francisco Bay.

Duration 60 minutes
8
City Lights Booksellers

Hear the story of City Lights Booksellers - who published Allen Ginsberg's "Howl" and forever influenced the 1st Amendment in the US.

9

Lombard Street

View the crooked section of the twisting Lombard Street from a vantage point over the rolling hills.

10

Alcatraz Island

After lunch on your own in your choice of "foodie" neighborhoods, reconvene with your guide at an easy-to-locate meeting point directly across the street from Alcatraz Landing. Your guide will begin by sharing the best ways to experience the island - what to expect, secret spaces to check out, and how to plan your day. Then, after your fill of wandering the small island and taking the (excellent!) audio guide tour of the Cellhouse, return at your leisure to find a great spot to eat lunch based on the recommendations of your guide.

Duration 120 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty.
  • Additional information
    All guests must supply the name and birthdate of everyone visiting the island at least 10 days prior to your tour. Should you fail to provide these, your reservation will be canceled.
  • Additional information
    All guests (over 18) must bring ID on the day of their tour. Without ID, Alcatraz Cruises will not release your ticket for you to travel to Alcatraz.
  • Additional information
    Last-minute amendments are not possible due to the venue regulations.
  • Additional information
    COVID UPDATE. Walks complies with all local government regulations. You may need to wear a mask or provide proof of vaccination to enter certain venues. Please refer to San Francisco government guidelines for the most up to date information.

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try Dim Sum at Yank Sing nearby.
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    Lunch options abound in North Beach.
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    Check out City Lights Bookstore in North Beach.
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    Wear comfortable shoes; it's a walking tour.
  • icon
    Visit Lombard Street after your tour.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the very best that San Francisco has to offer with the San Francisco: Alcatraz Island Ticket, Chinatown, and North Beach tour. This all-inclusive tour provides you with guaranteed prebooked Alcatraz tickets, as well as a guided walking tour of two of the city's most iconic neighborhoods, Chinatown and North Beach. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history and vibrant culture of these areas, all while enjoying the expertise of a knowledgeable local guide.

What to expect?

During this 7-hour tour, you can expect to explore the rich history and hidden gems of Chinatown and North Beach. Discover the fascinating stories behind the rise of the Gold Rush and the flood of immigration in the mid-19th century. Visit significant landmarks, such as the Dragon's Gate and Old St. Mary's Cathedral, and wander through the narrow streets lined with ornate Chinese elements. Top off your tour with a visit to the renowned Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory, where you can watch cookies being handmade and even take home a custom treat. After your time in Chinatown, venture into North Beach, San Francisco's lively Little Italy. Learn about the Beat Poets and the Italian immigrants who settled in this picturesque neighborhood. Visit the famous City Lights Booksellers, a historic bookstore that forever influenced the 1st Amendment. Finally, make your way to Alcatraz Island, where you'll have ample time to explore the eerie halls of the infamous prison and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for anyone looking to delve deeper into the cultural fabric of San Francisco. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, this tour has something for everyone. The expert guide will provide insightful commentary, making the tour suitable for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends or family, this tour guarantees an engaging and educational day in San Francisco.

Why book this?

Booking this tour means gaining access to Alcatraz Island without the hassle of navigating ticket availability. The prebooked tickets ensure a seamless experience, allowing you to focus on immersing yourself in the captivating history of this notorious prison. Additionally, the guided walking tour of Chinatown and North Beach offers a unique perspective and local insights that you wouldn't get by exploring on your own. You'll have the opportunity to discover hidden gems, hear fascinating stories, and gain a deeper understanding of the city's diverse heritage. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore San Francisco with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

Good to know

This tour lasts approximately 7 hours, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. The meeting point is at 10 Mark Lane, where your guide will be waiting with a Walks sign. Lunch is not included in the tour, but your guide will provide recommendations for great spots to eat in the "foodie" neighborhoods you'll be visiting. Make the most of your visit to Alcatraz Island by taking advantage of the excellent audio guide tour of the Cellhouse. Take your time, soak up the history, and find a scenic spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch before heading back to the mainland.

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