Alcatraz Island, in San Francisco Bay, houses what was the most infamous prison in US history. Most of the former buildings here remains intact. The biggest and most recognisable building still standing is the cell block and the audio tour of the building includes the thoughts of former prisoners. You’ll see some further buildings too and you’ll also see the remains of others, like the governor’s mansion which burned down in a fire during the American Indian occupation of the island. Alcatraz also has a new life as a wildlife preserve and we thought the whole place was fascinating. You’ll need half a day to see it all.
Alcatraz is really quite a bleak place, even in the summer and you’ll need to bear in mind that the weather on the island can be very different to the weather in San Francisco itself. Be prepared for a drop in temperature and an increase in wind. We think that Alcatraz is the one thing you shouldn’t miss in San Francisco and yet it’s actually very easy to miss out on a trip here. This is because at peak times, the ferry crossings are often fully booked for days in advance.
One of the things that keeps Alcatraz relevant is the sheer number of TV shows and movies that feature it. You’ll recognise some of the areas you see from previous filming. However, most of the indoor scenes of any drama are shot in a studio and not on the island. The National Parks service has had to deal with people heading off the prescribed walking areas trying to find sets which don’t actually exist! The most memorable building is the main cell block and the stories of former prisons who were incarcerated here are powerful and really bring it to life.
Alcatraz is available to visit daily with the first boat leaving just after 9am and the last boat back at around 6pm. Adult admission including the ferry and tour is $47.95 (2025 prices). You can buy tickets in advance here: Alcatraz Ferry Ticket & App Tour
LOCATION & CONTACT
Address: (Alcatraz Cruises) Alcatraz Landing, Pier 33, Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133.
Tel: +01 415 981 7625
MORE ON ALCATRAZ
Alcatraz City Cruises – Official Website
Books on Alcatraz – Amazon.co.uk
Hotels in San Francisco – Great rates from Hotels.com
San Francisco Guide Books – Amazon