How to Tour Alcatraz

Alcatraz is a small but famous island that was once home to the country's most infamous prison. Located in the California's San Francisco Bay and known as "The Rock," Alcatraz Island is home to an interesting collection of artifacts from its days as a jail (1934-1963) for the country's most notorious criminals. The American Indian occupation of the island from 1969-1971 is also a part of the celebrated Alcatraz experience and history.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Read about the history of Alcatraz before embarking on a tour. Browse the book "Alcatraz: A Definitive History of the Penitentiary Years" by Michael Esslinger at Amazon for an over 400-page historical account of the prison (see Resources below).
2. Get all of the official information about visiting Alcatraz island on the U.S. National Park Service Alcatraz Island website (see Resources below). Plan your tour, get directions and find things to do on this easy to use site.
3. Take the ferry from the mainland to Alcatraz Island. There is no fee to enter the island, but you must purchase a ticket to ride on the ferry.
4. Consider an early bird tour to start your day at Alcatraz Island. The tour departs from Pier 33 at 9:30 a.m. and is available every day.
5. Tour Alcatraz during the day or early evening and explore the island unassisted. The day tour features an audio tour called "Doing Time: The Alcatraz Cellhouse Tour" and is offered at the perfect time to enjoy the gardens and interesting island wildlife.
6. Trust the Alcatraz night tour to give you the full experience of Alcatraz Island. The night tour features an audio tour, on-board narration, a guided tour and other activities.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy your Alcatraz Island ferry ticket up to 30 days in advance on the Alcatraz Cruises website (see Resources below). You can also book an official tour on the Alcatraz Cruises website.
• Wear layers when visiting Alcatraz. The weather off of the San Francisco Bay can be cold even during summer months.
• Eat before entering Alcatraz Island. Water is the only food product available for purchase on the island.
• Purchase your tickets at least a week in advance to avoid tickets being sold out.
• Understand that Alcatraz is a wild bird sanctuary. Feeding the birds is strictly prohibited.
• Read the signs posted around the island. Unsafe areas are marked and barricaded.

Who Can Help: