How to Visit Alcatraz Prison

Alcatraz Prison is located on Alcatraz Island, a structure that is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Alcatraz was an infamous prison that held some of the worst criminals in the history of the United States. If you are in the San Francisco area, make time to visit Alcatraz.

Instructions

1. Purchase your tickets in advance. This is especially true during the summer because the ferry to the island has a tendency to sell out. Ferry service runs every half an hour to the island.

2. Bring along a jacket. Although it may be warm out, once you get to the island the winds can prove to be very strong.

3. Attend one of the free programs. Throughout the day, lectures and programs are held on subjects such as famous prison escapes, notable prisoners and the natural history of the island.

4. Take the audio tour through the prison. As you walk through Alcatraz, the audio tour will let you know about the history of the prison and events that took place during the penitentiary era.

5. Use the map. The prison can prove maze-like and you need to utilize the map you received on arrival to navigate your way around.

6. Try to take a night tour. Visiting during the evening hours can make the trip to the prison feel eerie.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't expect to eat while visiting Alcatraz. There are no food vendors and water is only provided through drinking fountains.

• Do not feed the birds that reside on the island while visiting the prison. It is strictly prohibited.

Resources

• Advanced Ferry Tickets on the Alcatraz Tickets Website