The Family Trip

How to Visit Alcatraz with Kids

How to Visit Alcatraz with Kids

  • May 28, 2021 July 27, 2021
  • by Mrs. Family Trip

Nature reclaims her own, time and again. She heals, restores and, eventually, makes whole that which is broken. It is why we go into the woods when we feel overwhelmed beyond help. It is why Walden appeals. It is why one of the top ways to stay mentally healthy is to get outside .

Alcatraz is a reminder of the beauty and the crushing ability to cleanse that nature holds.

For a place that housed some of the worst of human stories and conditions, some of the saddest of broken minds and spirits, it is stunningly gorgeous. Huge succulents cascade down brick walls meant to punish; birds roost and raise their young in buildings destroyed by fire.

The ravished landscape is made ravishing when humans let nature be.

Visiting Alcatraz with Kids

New to our Trip? Be sure to check out our kick-off article and FAQs on our trip up California’s Route 1 with the family. The full itinerary, including stops and lodging, can be found here.

alcatraz school trip

When we decided to head to California as our big family vacation this spring, our youngest child was beyond excited about one spot: Alcatraz. I don’t think that he’s alone, nor do I think there is anything morbid about that. There is something in the iconic, identifiable, historic, creepy place, paired with the stories of men who beat The Rock through escape, that appeals to a lot of kids people.

Yet we were traveling while COVID cases were going down and the world of travel and tourism was very much uncertain and different. It wasn’t until about two weeks prior to our trip that Alcatraz reopened for visitors. We felt lucky, and elated.

It turns out, our feelings were appropriate. This was a really amazing and memorable trip, one definitely worth making.

Visiting Alcatraz with Kids

Prepare for your visit to Alcatraz

Every major family adventure we do, we make our kids pick things we are going to see and write reports on them. Don’t worry, we don’t give them grades. But we’ve discovered it’s a really wonderful way to a) get them excited about the trip, b) have them engage with the places we are going in a pronounced way, and c) learn a lot about the places we are going to see.

So, of course, our third grader chose to do his report on Alcatraz.

He read this book (affiliate link) , which we actually then ALL read.

My husband watched this movie when he got home, but wished he had watched it beforehand. Of course, this is NOT appropriate for our kids. But incidentally, we learned that it is the most accurate Hollywood depiction of Alcatraz there is.

Visiting Alcatraz with Kids

We got our tickets to Alcatraz as soon as we could. A silver lining of COVID: tickets are usually really hard to get. They sell out months in advance. But due to the fact that things were just reopening, we were able to snag some.

NOTE: Be sure you get tickets on the proper cruise!! Only one is the licensed carrier to dock at Alcatraz and let tourists off. Other “Alcatraz cruises” literally just cruise around the island. If you’re planning on getting off and walking around Alcatraz, get tickets on the right boat (alcatrazcruises.com).

Tickets to ride the boat aren’t cheap (around $40 per adult), but that is the total cost. There isn’t any entry fee or additional cost to do the audio tour of the cellhouse.

Visiting Alcatraz with Kids

By way of practical tips:

  • Pack sunscreen! Even though it was chilly during our trip, it was sunny.
  • Pack water. Bring some snacks  – not much is for sale on the island. While you can’t eat anywhere but at the dock, it is worth having something light to eat, just in case.
  • Wear comfortable shoes. While Alcatraz isn’t huge, it is very steep. In fact, if you are taking young ones, strollers would work but just be prepared to do the hard work of pushing uphill.
  • Dress in layers (a general rule for California). If we were in the wind, we were chilly. If we weren’t, we were hot.

Visiting Alcatraz with Kids

I will also throw this random, unique tidbit out there –

Read up on ALL the history of Alcatraz. I had never heard of the Indian occupation of Alcatraz , but the marks of that phenomenal piece of history are still visible. I wish I had known more!

Visiting Alcatraz with Kids

How to get the most out of your time on Alcatraz

We were on the first boat out in the morning, and arrived at the loading dock a little early. I recommend that, as there are some exhibits for the kids to look at while waiting for departure.

Once we got off the boat, we used our young(ish) legs and hauled up the hill quickly – straight to the cellhouse at the top. We knew there was going to be a crowd (afterall, we just cruised over with them). We ended up being some of the first to get to the cellhouse and didn’t have to wait in line.

Definitely plan to do the audio tour! It is free and added so much to our experience. There were stories told by people who were actually prisoners on Alcatraz. A little creepy, but also really interesting. It reminded us that what happened in these walls happened to real people.

Visiting Alcatraz with Kids

The boat schedule was every hour. It left the pier in San Francisco on the hour, and then left the island back for San Francisco at 20 after the hour. One hour wasn’t enough time to be on Alcatraz. But two hours felt long. I would recommend bringing snacks (see above) and planning to be on Alcatraz for the two hours.

They do have Junior Ranger programs at Alcatraz. (As I’ve explained before, we don’t do those as our oldest in particular then gets so obsessed with the pamphlet and word games that he never looks up from the paper at the actual place we are.)

Visiting Alcatraz with Kids

The audio tour pointed out some really amazing details, including the original cells where the men successfully escaped, as well as stories about failed attempts at escape.

But we spent a lot of time talking with our kids, too, trying to process everything. I was overwhelmed by the suffering contained on the island – sometimes the feelings were so acute the hair on my arms stood on end – and I have no doubt that tortured spirits are stuck somewhere inside.

We wanted our kids to not just take home the myth and legend, but we wanted to invoke empathy and the truth of the place as well – as much as we could that was age appropriate and didn’t detract from the experience.

One of the most resonant stories told on the audio tour was of prisoners looking out the barred windows, stuck in this hell, hearing the sounds of the wealthy partying and laughing across the bay. The prisoners would see, hear and smell what they couldn’t have: freedom.

Visiting Alcatraz with Kids

We spent a lot of time then wandering the gardens. There are stunning views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate, and the green, verdant peaks rising up on the opposite shoreline across the bridge.

Thoughts on visiting Alcatraz

As shared in the introduction to this post, I was incredibly taken aback by how beautiful this place is. When we were reading plaques explaining how grand banquets were held for those who worked on the island and at the prison, I was not surprised. I could envision it. The vegetative lushness around us screamed excess and luxury.

When we were told stories of the kids being raised on Alcatraz, it was easy to forget they were raised in the shadow of an infamous federal prison and, instead, think of how glorious it must have been running wild in such a beautiful and mystery place, nestled in blue waters and scenic views.

Visiting Alcatraz with Kids

But one of the things that Mr. Family Trip and I noticed and discussed was how, even though this is a National Park, it is being maintained but not restored. It is being left as it was left.

I love this.

Visiting Alcatraz with Kids

Alcatraz is not being overhauled to be a Disney experience. This is real life. All of the remnants of decisions humans have made over the past centuries are on display – the good and the bad.

This is a really powerful way to preserve a national landmark. And it’s also brave. Alcatraz hasn’t removed the spray-painted resistance message on the water tower. They haven’t tried to cover up the rebar of buildings that burnt down. Crumbling steps are roped off but given permission to continue to crumble. It is easy to recognize that these are the actual steps humans decades before me walked their lives on.

Everything feels so real. And because of that, it affects deep down and on a visceral level.

Visiting Alcatraz with Kids

It is definitely worth the half day and the expense to visit this most unique of National Parks, to engage in big questions about institutional memory and what we hold on to, to feel the power of nature to reclaim. It is definitely worth a trip to Alcatraz.

For more on Alcatraz:

  • Official NPS website
  • Boat tickets
  • Full historic record of Alcatraz
  • FBI “famous case file” on Alcatraz escapees

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The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Alcatraz Island with Kids

alcatraz school trip

January 15, 2018

Alcatraz Island Fort Mason, B201 San Francisco, CA Ask any tourist in San Francisco the places they plan on visiting in the city, and Alcatraz Island is sure to be at the top of their list along with the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman's Wharf . But ask a Bay Area local if they've been to Alcatraz and the answer is more often than not, "No. Alcatraz is for tourists." Sound familiar? I recently visited Alcatraz Island with my three daughters and, trust me, it's a great place to the kids—no matter how long you've lived here ! Here's everything you need to know about visiting the former penitentiary . 

The ferry trip 

Alcatraz Island

A major highlight of any visit to Alcatraz happens before you even set foot on the island. It's the ferry trip ! The ten minute ferry trip to Alcatraz from Pier 33 may be short, but during that time you'll take in some of the most spectacular views of the Bay you can imagine. As the ferry zooms out you'll see the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Bridges, Treasure Island, Angel Island, Coit Tower, the TransAmerica Building, Sausalito, the East Bay and, of course, Alcatraz Island. While standing outside will get you the best views, it can also be pretty windy—a window seat inside is best with small children. Depending on the ferry in use, there's also covered seating on the roof available. These seats not only afford great views, but kids can watch the wind turbines on the back of the ferry spin as they generate power.

Insider tip: Make sure to arrive at Pier 33 at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to get at the front of the queue for the best seats. The ferry will turn around once it moves away from the pier, so grab a seat on the right hand side when you board and you'll end up facing Alcatraz for the duration of the trip.

Junior Ranger program

Alcatraz Island

Since  Alcatraz Island is a National Park, children visiting the island can take part in the Junior Ranger program . This is a great way to get the children involved in learning about the history and environment of the island, and it serves as a great distraction should they get a little bored at times. The program is primarily aimed at kids ages five to 13, but children of any age are welcome to participate. To take part in the program, visit the Ranger Station near the dock when you first arrive on the island. Children will be given an activity book filled with word searches, quizzes and drawing pages to complete as they tour Alcatraz. (The number of pages they need to complete varies depending on age.) Upon completion of the book (or the required number of pages), a ranger will check that the answers have been filled out, have the kids recite a pledge and then award them with their very own junior ranger badges. It's such a fun program and the badges make a great (and free!) souvenir.

Insider tip: Make sure to allow a little extra time before the ferry departure to visit the ranger station for the kids to be sworn in as Junior Rangers. It typically takes five to 10 minutes depending on how many kids there are.

Alcatraz Island

The cell house is the main attraction at Alcatraz. Here you not only see the cells that inmates lived in, but also explore the interiors of a few. While most cells contain just the bare minimum (bed, toilet and sink), some have have been set up with the artifacts and belongings of the former inmates, such as painting supplies, art works, clothing and bedding. A major highlight is seeing the cell where inmates dug a hole through the wall with spoons! Most cells are closed to the public and can only be viewed from the corridor, however several cells are open for visitors to explore and take that all important "stuck behind bars" photo. My kids love trying to chat to each other through the thick windows, even though it's impossible to hear the person on the other side!

Insider tip : To learn more about the cell house take the free audio tour. 

Alcatraz Island

The free audio tour through the Cell House block is a great way to learn about the history of Alcatraz and its inmates as you explore the building. The audio tour guides visitors through the cell house block and Recreation Yard with stops at various points of interest. The littlest visitors to Alcatraz are sure to want to join in with the audio tour even if they don't really understand what they're hearing—wearing headphones is fun when you're a toddler! The audio tour starts and ends at the northern entrance to the Cell Block.

Insider tip: The Recreation Yard is a great spot for little visitors to take a break during the audio tour. Here, they can run around, play hopscotch and climb the concrete bleachers, which also make for a good place to sit for a bit. A gate at the side of the Recreation Yard provides spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge and is worth a look.

Parade Ground

Alcatraz Island

The Parade Ground is a great place for kids to run around while parents take in the stunning views over the city. (There are plenty of old foundations perfect for balancing on which was a hit with my kids!) We spotted tons of birds in this area and my kids also enjoyed looking down at the water below trying to spot sea lions. The Agave Trail makes its way around the outskirts of the Parade Ground offering stunning views from the East Bay to the Golden Gate Bridge. (Keep in mind that seasonal closures of the path are currently in place.)

Insider tip: The Parade Ground seems like a great spot to sit and eat a picnic (as I saw several people doing), but eating is only allowed in the designated area by the dock.

New Industries Building (and exhibitions)

Alcatraz Island

The New Industries Building at the northern end of Alcatraz Island is a large open building that houses exhibitions. These exhibitions change over time, and in the past have included notable artworks such as Chinese artist Ai Weiwei's exhibition showcasing his perspective on human rights, political prisoners and freedom of expression. The current exhibition features photographs taken at the end of Alcatraz Island's time as a federal prison. The building features large windows that face onto the Bay with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Insider tip: While the exhibition may not be of much interest to younger children, there are plenty of other features that are sure to capture their imagination. A wall of old toilets in various states of disrepair caught my kids' attention! This quiet building is also a great spot for kids to sit and work on their Junior Ranger books while parents take in the exhibition.

Alcatraz Island

The Museums Collection, housed in the Barracks, features a large array of artifacts and photographs from Alcatraz Island's time as a federal prison, a military prison and the Native American occupation. My kids especially enjoyed seeing the weapons used by the prison guards, fake heads created out of cardboard and human hair by inmates in an escape attempt, and the various keys made by prisoners out of everyday items like spoons. My kids were surprised to learn here that there were also children who called Alcatraz home. These were the children of prison staff members who lived in cottages on the island with their families. Can you imagine living on Alcatraz Island?

Insider tip: There are a few hands-on exhibits in the museum which are perfect for keeping younger children occupied while you check out the exhibits.

Tips for your visit:

Alcatraz Island

• Access to Alcatraz is available only through Alcatraz Cruises. Purchase tickets here . Be wary of other companies selling tickets for boat trips that include Alcatraz, as these do not stop at the island.

• It's best to book your tickets as far in advance as possible as they can sell out quickly, especially on weekends and during holidays. Tickets are available for purchase 90 days in advance.

• Tickets are $37.25 for adults, $23 for children (ages 5-11) and free for children under 4.

• Make sure to arrive at Pier 33 and check-in at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time. If you miss your departure time, there is no guarantee that you will be able to board a later ferry.

• Ferries returning to Pier 33 depart Alcatraz approximately every 30 minutes until 4:30pm. Three hours is the suggested visit time on the island.

• Food is not available to purchase on Alcatraz Island. Bringing a packed lunch or snacks is recommended, however eating is only allowed at the dock area. Bottled water is allowed on all areas of the island and can be purchased in the gift store. Food and drinks are available to purchase on the ferry and at Pier 33.

• Most parts of Alcatraz island are wheelchair and stroller accessible, however the hills are very steep. A small tram is available to transport those with limited mobility. I would recommend using a baby carrier for infants rather than a stroller as it can get quite crowded in the Cell Block building!

• Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.

• The weather can change quickly on Alcatraz so be prepared and dress in layers. Rain ponchos are available to purchase in the gift store. 

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How to Visit Alcatraz with Kids

Alcatraz with Kids

It’s a top attraction in the U.S., yep a notorious prison in California’s San Francisco Bay is on everyone’s bucket list. Though shouuld you visit Alcatraz with kids?  Well, on a recent West Coast road trip, my kids, 9, 13 and 14, asked all day  when are we going to Alcatraz . Seriously. It was their favorite national park site of the summer after stopping at most of the national park sites on the West Coast. Here’s what it’s like to visit Alcatraz with kids.

Table of Contents

Read More about National Parks 

Lassen volcanic national park, redwoods national and state parks, sequoia and kings canyon national parks, alcatraz with kids.

Explore Alcatraz with kids.

I have a girl and two boys and my boys are fascinated by prisons. So I decided to tour the prison that defines hard-core prison life. I had never been and  I wanted to see it for myself. A walk through Alcatraz at twilight is creepy and borderline scary. But tweens and teens love to walk the line of scary and creepy so it’s perfect for them.

For younger kids, well the subject matter and  the location might be too much for kids under 12. The facility itself isn’t stroller-friendly and the interior of the prison is poorly lit at times.

Though it’s not all creepy. In addition to the Alcatraz tour on the island, the boat ride is a treat, especially if the weather is clear.  The views of downtown San Francisco can’t be beat, really stunning. If you book the evening tour and the ferry ride at the sunset is top-notch. Though remember that San Francisco fog!

Take a ferry to Alcatraz with kids.

History of the Alcatraz Island

Derived from the Spanish word alcatraces, or seabirds, the birds have called the island home for generations. In the 1850s, the island became a military fortress due to its strategic positioning in the San Francisco Bay.

Since the shipping traffic increased in and out of San Francisco after the gold rush, a lighthouse was needed. In 1854 the Alacatraz Island Light became the first lighthouse on the West Coast.

During the Civil War, Alcatraz Island housed 400 soldiers and numerous cannons to protect the port. However, in 1907 the U.S. Army decommissioned Alcatraz. The island always housed prisoners from the early days as a military fort. Soon after its decommission as a fort, military guards built a cellhouse.

Explore Alcatraz with kids and walk through the cell block.

In 1915, Alcatraz was renamed the United States Disciplinary Barracks, Pacific Branch, a military prison. During the Great Depression, Alcatraz transferred from the War Department to the Department of Justice. Soon after, it became a high-profile, maximum-security federal penitentiary.

Home to the worst of the worst, infamous inmates like Al Capone, along with others with nicknames like Creepy, Doc, Machine Gun, and Birdman of Alcatraz were all incarcerated on The Rock. Inmates that caused problems in other prisons, came to Alcatraz too.

After the prison closed in 1963, Native Americans occupied Alcatraz island in effort to claim it for all tribes. Support dwindled and in 1972, Alcatraz became part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Explore Alcatraz with kids during your trip to San Francisco.

Alcatraz Tours with Kids

Find  three types of tours for Alcatraz, the day tour, the night tour and the behind-the-scenes tour.

Alcatraz Day Tour

The day tour is the most common and departs daily from Pier 33. It lasts about 2 and-a-half hours and includes the ferry ride to-and-from Alcatraz Island. Once on the island, the tour is led by an audio tour (available in most languages). Ferries start departing at 8:50 a.m. or 9:10 a.m. depending on schedule and last day tour ferry departs at 2 p.m. everyday.

Alcatraz Behind the Scenes Tour 

A small group tour of less than 20 people with a one and a half to two hour guided tour by a Park Ranger. Explore areas that are typically off-limits to Day Tours. This tour also includes the audio tour and the total experience lasts about four hours. The ferry departs at noon on Thursday to Monday.

Note: Kids under 12 are not allowed on the Alcatraz Behind the Scenes Tour.

Alcatraz Night Tour

With only one ferry departure daily for the night tour, it sells out well in advance. The ferry for this tour departs at 4 p.m. on Thursday to Monday.

Stop by the Ranger Station at the dock and pick up a Junior Ranger booklet. Take the tour, finish the booklet and turn it back in to the park ranger for a special badge.

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Tour Alcatraz with kids during your trip to San Francisco.

Alcatraz is creepy and eerie in the evening so the younger kids might be frightened by the night tour. My kids, 9, 13 and 14, loved this tour but tweens and teens love to be freaked out a bit. Actually Alcatraz was their favorite national park site from the entire summer.

I had to see it for myself. Alcatraz is one of the places you have to visit to understand. Pictures can be haunting but walking through the cell block as the dabbled light casts a ghostly glow is eerie.

We explored Alcatraz during the twilight hours on the Night Tour. The audio tour get all three of my kids entranced as we explored the Cell House at our own pace.

A special feature of this tour is the Cell House lock-down. A Park Ranger unlocks then locks all the cell doors on the cell block at once. A must if you take the Night Tour.

This tour is especially creepy since the setting sun casts deep shadows throughout the prison. The lighting is limited and the hospital ward is particularly eery in the evening. It might be too scary for younger kids, my 9-year-old decided to skip this portion of the tour.

Lock the kids up when you tour Alcatraz with kids.

Best Beaches in California 

Explore solvang california, the birds of alcatraz.

The birds came first, though moved on after humans occupied the island in the 1850s. When the prison closed in the 1963, the birds returned to the protected location that lacked natural predators.

The island offers refuge for over 5,000 birds today. The waterbirds include Pigeon Guillemots, Snowy Egrets, Western Gulls, Black-crowned Night-Herons and Brandt’s Cormorants. Some areas of the island may close to protect nesting birds that will abandon their nest if humans come too close.

Birders, remember your binoculars and grab the brochure, Waterbirds of Alcatraz , at the kiosk after disembarking the ferry.

The Gardens of Alcatraz

Visit the gardens when you explore Alcatraz with kids.

The gardens that still bloom off the most surprising feature of the former high-security prison. Sprinkled throughout the property, residents first planted the gardens in the late 1800s.

With the help of reclaimed water, green houses and specially-trained inmates, the gardens flourished until 1963, when the prison closed. Over 230 species of ornamental plants still flourish on Alcatraz, including roses, calla lilies, bearded irises, agapanthus and hydrangeas.

Garden lovers, grab the brochure, The Gardens of Alcatraz , at the kiosk after disembarking the ferry for more information.

Get the App!

The National Park Service developed an NPS Golden Gate App, covering Alcatraz Island among other NPS sites around San Francisco. The app includes an interactive map, hidden stories and up-to-date ranger information.

Where to Eat at Alcatraz

Got hungry kids? The Landing at Alcatraz, the ticketing and boarding area off The Embarcadero, offers a cafeteria with options for families along with rain ponchos and souvenirs. Food service is not available on Alcatraz Island. (Note: The Landing at Alcatraz is not serving food in 2022.)

Only bottled water is permitted on the tour.

Getting to Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is located in the San Francisco Bay and reached by ferry only. The Alcatraz Ferry Terminal is located at Pier 33 on The Embarcadero. Alcatraz Cruises is the only ferry that stops at Alcatraz Island.

Parking is an issue while visiting Downtown San Francisco. During my trip, I used public transportation and left my car at my hotel.

Alcatraz Cruises 2022 Tickets

More information about alcatraz and san francisco:.

If you need more information about Alcatraz or San Francisco with kids, I recommend the following guide.

Read More: Fodor’s San Francisco: with the best of Napa & Sonoma

alcatraz school trip

Consideration for brands mentioned. This post includes affiliate links.

Know Before You Go:

  • Tickets go on sale 90 days in advance.
  • Parking is an issue for San Francisco. I used public transportation during my visit.
  • Alcatraz Island, or ‘The Rock”, is hilly and requires climbing. Motorized transportation is limited.
  • Luggage larger than a standard backpack is not allowed.
  • Photo ID required for the purchaser of the tickets.
  • Give yourself at least two-and-a-half hours for the tour.
  • Bring a jacket and rain gear since the weather is unpredictable.
  • Make reservations for this popular tour months in advance, especially for the evening tour.
  • In Mid-August flies that hatch from the bird colonies and swarm.
  • The Self-Guided booklet, Discover Alcatraz – A Tour of the Rock , costs $1.
  • The tour includes an audio tour headset.

All aboard for a tour of the most notorious prison in the U.S. and one of the top attractions in California. Alcatraz Island tours require a ferry and there's several different tours to see the cell of Al Capone along with others. How to get to Alctaz Prison | Ferry to Alctraz Island | Is Alcatraz right for kids #California #Alcatraz

Catherine Parker has a passion for travel and seen all 50 U.S. States. As a former flight attendant with one of the largest airlines, there isn't a North American airport that she hasn't landed in at least once. Since clipping her professional wings after 9/11, she combines her love of the open road with visiting architectural and cultural icons. She is based out of Central Texas dividing her time between writing and restoring a pair of 100-year-old houses. She shares her life with her three kids and her husband.

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How to Visit Alcatraz Island in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, and More

Jessica Nemire Last Updated: October 26, 2023

Alcatraz Island is almost synonymous with San Francisco. Due to the island’s immense popularity, it can be hard to plan your visit. Never fear! That’s what we are here for. Here’s how to visit Alcatraz Island, plus all you need to know about tickets, hours, and more!

Pro Tip:  It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Bookmark this post along with our  San Francisco Guide  for more planning resources, our best San Francisco tours  for a memorable trip, and the top things to do in San Fran .

Alcatraz Island Hours, Tickets, Tours, And Facts: What We’ll Cover

Alcatraz Island housed the most infamous prison in the United States: the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary. Since shutting down in 1963 and sending its prisoners elsewhere, both the prison and the island have become one of the most popular tour destinations in San Francisco.

It’s also in the middle of the scenic San Francisco Bay, making it even more of an iconic place to visit to get some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco. You can learn more about the history of Alcatraz Island here !

  • Hours and info
  • Tickets and pricing
  • Transportation and parking
  • What to see and do
  • Alcatraz tours
  • Facts and history of Alcatraz

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if San Francisco tours are worth it .

How to Visit Alcatraz Island: Hours and Info

Alcatraz in San Francisco top things to do 700 x 425

Hours:  Monday – Sunday, from 10 am until 9 pm.

Alcatraz Island is closed on the following days:

  • Thanksgiving (4th Thursday of November)
  • December 25

There are also various portions of the island that are closed off at certain times of the year to allow the island’s resident sea birds to nest. Alcatraz Island has been known to have special events, such as art exhibits, although there have not been any such events since 2019. If they resume events again, their events page can be found here . Currently, the island is hosting community building days to restore the the gardens on the island.

Tickets and Pricing for Alcatraz Island

Since Alcatraz Island is, you know, an island, it’s only accessible via a ticketed ferry. Due to the popularity of Alcatraz, we strongly recommend booking your tickets to Alcatraz Island at least a few weeks ahead of time! Especially during the summer and other high tourist times during the year, Alcatraz tickets can sell out even months ahead of your tour date!

Every ferry ride to Alcatraz Island departs from Pier 33 near Fisherman’s Wharf. The ferry ride from Pier 33 to the island typically takes around 15 minutes. Make sure you arrive at least 45 minutes before the ferry is scheduled to leave. There’s a lot to explore and views to take in from the island, so we recommend spending at least three hours there.

You can purchase your tickets online or in person at Pier 33, which is where the ferry departs. If buying directly from Alcatraz Island, they offer a day tour, a night tour, and also a behind-the-scenes tour. The prices listed below are for the daytime tour, as that is the most common option.

Admission:  $41 for adults, $25 for children (5-11 years), $41 for juniors (12-17 years), $38 for seniors (62+ years) Family Pricing: $119.60 total for 2 adults + 2 children 5-11years

Address:  31 San Francisco Pier 33 – Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, CA

Pro Tip:  Skip the line by booking your ticket online ahead of time or getting more out of your visit by joining our San Francisco in a day tour ! The tour includes a full access ticket to Alcatraz Penitentiary and Island, as well as a 4-hour guided tour of San Francisco in an open-sided van. The tour also stops by the famous Golden Gate Bridge, and includes pickup at your hotel!

Not ready to book a tour? Read more in our San Francisco Guide .

How To Get to Alcatraz Island

alcatraz school trip

Please note that there is no parking available at Pier 33 (or the island) as you plan how to visit Alcatraz Island. The ferry landing dock at Pier 33 is about a 7-minute walk or a 5-minute drive from Pier 39, otherwise known as Fisherman’s Wharf.

Like most of San Francisco, parking is almost impossible to find at Pier 39. For this reason, finding another way to Alcatraz Island is advised. That’s a big part of the reason why we recommend booking our San Francisco in a day tour that includes Alcatraz. All logistics and tickets are included so you can enjoy your day without stress.

Here are a few transportation options to get to your Alcatraz ferry departure at Pier 33:

  • Car/Rideshare Services

The exact timing of your journey to Pier 33 to pick up the ferry for Alcatraz Island depends on which hotel you are staying at, of course. Since most of our picks for the best hotels in San Francisco are near the Embarcadero waterfront , we calculated the times from there. We also calculated some times from Union Square, as that is another popular area to stay in San Francisco.

By Trolley:

We don’t mean the cable cars when we say trolley. Although it looks similar to a cable car, the F Market & Wharves trolley is a MUNI bus that runs from Castro St. Station to Fisherman’s Wharf. Standing for San Francisco Municipal Railway,” the MUNI system is San Francisco’s bus and underground train system.

From the Embarcadero, it takes around 8 minutes to get from the trolley stop to Pier 33. From Union Square, it takes around 24 minutes. A ride on the F trolley costs $3. You can pay by cash with exact change, or on the MuniMobile app. For more information about transportation in San Francisco, check out our helpful article about getting around San Francisco !

If you’re staying by the Embarcadero, the F trolley is your only public transportation option to get to Pier 33. If you are staying by Union Square, you can take the 8 MUNI bus. It takes around 24 minutes, and costs $3.

By Car/Uber:

It takes 10 minutes to drive from Union Square to Pier 33 and around 5 minutes or less to drive from Embarcadero. Since parking is next to impossible near the piers, if you need to drive, we suggest taking Lyft, Uber, or a taxi. With all 3 options, the one-way fare for a standard car fitting 3-4 passengers is likely between $10 and $12.

It takes less than 10 minutes to bike from both Union Square and the Embarcadero area to Pier 33. There are bike rentals all over the city, including handy electric bikes. Bay Wheels, an e-bike sharing program managed by Lyft, offers bike rentals through the Lyft app. For single rides, you will be charged an unlock fee of $3 and charged 30 cents a minute. So, a 10-minute bike ride would about cost $6. Despite being a difficult area to park in, there are frequently a lot of cars and traffic in this area, so watch out for cars if you are biking!

If you are staying near Union Square or the Embarcadero, it might be easiest to simply walk to Pier 33 to catch the ferry if you and everyone in your group is up for a walk. Walking from the Embarcadero Area will take around 15-20 minutes, depending on which hotel you are staying in, and walking from Union Square will take around 30 minutes.

What to See and Do on the Island

what to see on alcatraz island

Throughout your exploration of the buildings left standing on Alcatraz, you’ll find hundreds of photographs and memorabilia from the time of its use. Some areas are off limits to tourists as they are unstable from neglect. The walkways are also quite steep in some areas, so wear sturdy shoes!

  • The cellhouse and infamous escape room
  • The gardens
  • The courtyard or playground
  • View of the bay and the city

Alcatraz Island Tours

alcatraz school trip

A trip to Alcatraz Island is only possible by purchasing a ferry ticket to the island. The National Park Service has jurisdiction over the island, so you’ll find park guides available to help you explore the island. It’s a mostly self-guided tour, but there are also several tour options available throughout the day.

The most popular tour option is the Alcatraz day tour, but there are also night tours, behind-the-scenes tours, and combination tours with Angel Island and Alcatraz Island.

Since it’s extremely difficult to get tickets during peak tourist months, booking a combination tour with a local guide is a popular option. Most tourists prefer booking both Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge to see both of the top San Francisco attractions in one day.

Facts and History of Alcatraz

To get you excited about your trip to Alcatraz, here are some interesting facts about the history of Alcatraz from authors and eyewitnesses mentioned in our other article here .

  • Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary housed prisoners during the Civil War.
  • The army left Alcatraz in 1934, but it was only empty for a few weeks before the Bureau of Prisons put the most dangerous criminals here.
  • Most of the criminals at Alcatraz had committed violent crimes or tried to escape their previous prisons.
  • Famous Alcatraz inmates included Al Capone (for tax evasion) and “Machine Gun” Kelly (not the singer) convicted of kidnapping.
  • Although the prison took up most of the island, there were also barracks, apartments, and a recreation hall, and at least 60 families with children lived there full time.
  • The families who lived there called it  “the poor man’s Hawaii.”
  • In 1972, the island became a part of the National Park Service, and it has been home to beautiful gardens since 2003.
  • Currently, many species of animals call the island home, such as salamanders and cormorants.
  • It’s referred to as “The Rock” because it is made up of mostly rock, and dirt was hauled in to make it livable.
  • So far, it has appeared in 10 movies and TV shows, including the 2010 movies The Book of Eli and the 2006 movie X-Men: The Last Stand .

alcatraz school trip

Where To Stay in San Francisco

Make the most of your visit to San Francisco by choosing to stay in the best neighborhoods for seeing all this iconic city has to offer. You’ll love our hotel recommendations.

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About Jessica Nemire

Jessica Nemire has been writing about about travel since 2011. She graduated from San Francisco State University in 2016 with a BA in journalism. She loves the ocean, Mission District burritos, and amazing sunsets.

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Visit Alcatraz With Kids

  • June 3, 2023
  • by Heather Flett
  • One Comment

Why should out-of-towners have all the fun? Alcatraz is one of the most famous tourist attractions in San Francisco, if not the whole country. But how many Bay Area kids have ever been? Not mine. I seized a recent non- camp , non- vacation mid-week summer day to bring my four kids, age 5 to 11, on a tour of Alcatraz for the first time. They loved it!

Alcatraz Ferry View

Pro-tip: During the school year, consider taking advantage of district specific school’s out days to enjoy less crowds).

We recommend visiting Alcatraz to families with kids ages 6+ who can walk up 1/4 mile of steep paths and still handle the mechanics of a one-hour audio tour. It was a great trip for a day off and would have been amazing with grandparents.

What to expect on Alcatraz with kids

There are a few different tour options . My best estimate for a standard tour with children is about 2-3 hours (including the ferry ride).  Alcatraz Tour tickets include a round-trip ferry ride (15 minutes each way); access to wander the island; a one-hour self-guided audio tour; Junior Rangers activity book and badge; 20-minute historical movie. You are allowed to stay as long as you like.

kids looking in prison cell

We skipped the extra exploration and the free movie, we departed Pier 33 at 9:40 am and left Alcatraz at around noon. If you book the very first tour of the day , you will skip the heaviest crowds.

Kid highlights of Alcatraz

The scavenger hunt associated with the Jr. Rangers program was quite engaging for them; it kept their eyes open to different parts of the island as we walked around. And it is FREE. Bring your own pencils since the Ranger station won’t always have some to lend out.

kids walking down path of flowers

The audio tour was great for my 9 and 11 year-olds; my 7 year-old mostly enjoyed it, while my 5 year-old when asked if she understood any of it afterwards said, “I didn’t understand any of it at all”. Luckily she did enjoy walking around, seeing and touching all the things.

The tour ends in the gift shop (of course), which has a lot of cool historical books for older kids. Little ones will want one of the cool brass keys to remind him of the guards and famous escape attempts, which was fine by me since I still have mine from when I went on a school field trip as a kid eons ago.

Ari, age 11, said, “The audio tour was interesting since I like history. Seeing inside the cells and standing in solitary was creepy and cool too. I want to read a book about Al Capone.”

Theo, age 9, said, “I liked how we were seeing the buildings as they were when the prisoners were in them. Like we were inside the past. I want to come back for the night tour!”

Jack, age 7 said, “I loved all the birds! And we saw a baby seagull being fed by its mom.”

Elaina, age 5 said, “The birds and flowers. The jail was fun too. And the boat.”

And they loved running back down the hill to the docks, finding things on the Junior Ranger bingo game, and watching the pelicans fight the seagulls.

pictures of infamous prisoners of Alcatraz

Plan ahead for comforts on Alcatraz

This historical landmark was a prison, not a spa. And it’s a national park, not a mall.

  • Food and drink. Any snacks should be eaten on board the ferry or immediately after landing. Only bottled water is allowed on the island after you leave the designated dock area.
  • Nausea. Not a problem for my motion-sickness prone family. A nice smooth ride.
  • Bathrooms are only at the ferry landing on Alcatraz and up near the lighthouse.
  • There is a shuttle to and from the cell house for those with limited mobility. Since I wanted my kids to use up their energy, we didn’t take advantage.
  • Alcatraz’s terrain is not stroller-friendly. Plan to wear your baby or wait until they can walk.
  • Wear comfy shoes and layers. It was cold and windy on the July day we went.

kids looking at view of San Francisco

Plan your trip to Alcatraz

Pick a day in the future when you want to take your adventure. Tickets are available for purchase 90 days in advance, and sell out quickly (though if you want to go last minute, it’s worth checking since there may be a few tickets here and there) Buy tickets here >

Ticket prices:

Adult and Juniors (ages 12-61): $45.25 Child (5-11): $27.55 Toddler (4 and under): FREE Family Pack (2 Adults and 2 Child (ages 5-11)): $131.85 Senior 62+ $42.65

When Heather brought her boys a few years ago she accidentally bought her tickets from a different website and paid $32 in extra fees. Ugh, don’t do that. Save your money for parking or chocolate. You want CityExperiences.com and not any other website like ALCATRAZ TIX FOR YOU.

gardens of Alcatraz

Getting to Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing from the East Bay

All Alcatraz Island tours depart from and return to Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing, located along San Francisco’s northern waterfront, on The Embarcadero at Bay Street (approximately 1/4 mile from Fisherman’s Wharf). Pro tip: Remember the odd pier numbers are to the north of the Ferry building and the evens are to the south, so don’t look for Pier 32.

  • Drive toward Fisherman’s Wharf & park in a very expensive lot. That’s what we did. Our parking fees were $40 for all day. We parked and allowed enough time to walk to Fisherman’s Wharf & back for In-N-Out and Krispy Kreme. You might save on parking if you parked at the Wharf. There are 15 lots within 5 blocks. This one is only $25 if you don’t mind a bit of a longer walk.
  • Ferry to Pier 41 from either Alameda or Oakland to within .25 miles of Alcatraz Landing.
  • BART/MUNI combo Take your favorite East Bay line to the Embarcadero station and take the F-Market street car along the Embarcadero to Pier 33.

Bottom line: It is a fun splurge for school-age kids. If you are looking for more fun activities in the Bay Area to do with kids, check out 50 things to do when school is out .

Thank you to City Experiences for providing my family with this amazing Alcatraz experience. We look forward to going back when the grandparents are in town for a spooky Night Tour !

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  • Filed Under: Day Trips , Grade Schoolers , San Francisco , Teens , Tweens

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1 thought on “visit alcatraz with kids”.

If your children are irritated by bugs, avoid going to Alcatraz when the cormorant flies are worst, in September and October. They are everywhere on the ferry and dock, and settle on you if you aren’t moving. Some children might find this pretty distressing.

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Tips for visiting alcatraz + the best alcatraz tours.

Alcatraz Island

Few places in the world are as notorious as Alcatraz Island, most famously known for the prison of the same name that housed some of the United States’ most hardened criminals. Alcatraz is one of the most popular attractions in San Francisco thanks to its storied history, its infamous inhabitants, its unique location, and the role it plays in many Hollywood movies. In this post, I’ll share with you the best tips for visiting Alcatraz island.

This post contains affiliate links, which means that, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a tiny bit of income if you decide to make a purchase or booking. For more, check out my disclosure . 

Since I grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area, Alcatraz has always been one of those locations I was aware of, but wouldn’t put in the effort to visit. I’d gone on a field trip to Alcatraz Island in middle school (almost 20 years ago), but hadn’t been back until this year! A friend of mine was visiting from out of town and had Alcatraz on his San Francisco itinerary. So I obliged and went along for the ride.

I’m really glad I did! The cell block tour is incredibly well done, there is a history with Native Americans I was unaware of, the views are incredible, and there is a new exhibit at the end about the prison system in the United States. Plus, it doesn’t take all day and can easily fit into a greater San Francisco itinerary . 

If you’re wondering, is Alcatraz worth visiting? Hopefully, this post will convince you that yes, it deserves a spot on your San Francisco bucket list !

Alcatraz Island sign

Alcatraz History

Most well known for the prison, Alcatraz, also known as “The Rock”, has played other important roles in US history as well.

The islands inception was that of a military base that turned into a military prison during Civil War years.

1934-1963: Alcatraz Prison

Alcatraz became home to a federal prison due to its history of a highly secure military prison. For almost 30 years he most notorious criminals called Alcatraz home. People like Al Capone, The Birdman of Alcatraz, and Machine Gun Kelly once slept in the cells you’ll see. During this time, not only prisoners lived on the island, but so did guards and their families. 

1969-1971: Occupation of Alcatraz

During this time a group of about 80 Native Americans occupied Alcatraz island in protest of the government’s termination act. This occupation shed light on the treatment of Native Americans and prompted Native American activism.

Alcatraz recreation yard

Alcatraz Tour

Alcatraz Tour Options

There are two Alcatraz tour options, the Alcatraz Day Tour and the Alcatraz Night Tour. Each tour provides a close up look at life on Alcatraz throughout the years.The tours are partially guided with a welcome talk upon arrival and via an audio tour of the cell block. 

The Alcatraz night tour includes the above in addition to a narrated ferry ride to the island and unique night exhibits. Plus, you could have the opportunity to watch the sunset over San Francisco from Alcatraz which would be a very unique experience.

Please be advised that walking around Alcatraz Island includes a few very steep climbs. However, there is a tram that offers transportation around the island if needed.

view of the Golden Gate bridge from the Alcatraz recreation yard

Cell House Audio Tour

The first place you’ll want to visit on Alcatraz Island is the main prison building. Climb up the hill, or ride the tram to the cell block entrance.

You’ll first enter the shower room where you’ll see shelves for the inmates clothing and an open area shower with shower heads coming down from the ceiling. 

At the end of this room is where you’ll pick up your audio. You can also listen to the audio via an app on your phone if you prefer.

From here you’ll visit various aspects of the prison

  • Cell block: you’ll see what the cells looked like and also see where escape attempts were made
  • Recreation yard: a small yard with steps that provide a view of the city and Golden Gate Bridge.
  • Library : where inmates could check out books or hold a job
  • Solitary confinement : you’ll see where prisoners ended up for days or even years at a time and learn how they kept themselves sane.
  • Kitchen : you’ll be able to see the large kitchen where meals were made. This is where you’ll return your audio guide.

Cellhouse in Alcatraz federal prison

While you’ll get to see all of these locations in the prison, the best part of the audio tour is that in addition to interesting facts about the famous prison, it also provides the sounds of the prison when it was full. You’ll hear from inmates and guards. You’ll hear the clanking of cell doors and the wind howling on cold nights. 

It’s honestly one of the best audio tours I’ve done as it provides an almost immersive experience into what life was like for prisoners of Alcatraz.

The Big Lockup: Mass Incarceration in the US

The Big Lockup is a new exhibit at the end of the cellhouse audio tour. This exhibit shows the role that Alcatraz played in the larger context of the US prison system. It provides a look at how the US has over 2.3 million incarcerated individuals, more than any other country in the world.

It makes you question why there are a disproportionate number of people of color, those born into poverty, and those with low literacy behind bars. Plus, it shows the ripple effect that this has on communities.

But it also asks the question of is there a better way to move forward from the prison system the US has built.

It’s a sobering exhibit to be sure.

Alcatraz recreation yard

Red Power of Alcatraz: American Indian Occupation

Besides the infamous inmates, you’ll also see evidence of the American Indian population that occupied Alcatraz island from 1969-1971.

As soon as you step off of the ferry, you’ll see in red spray paint the words “Indians Welcome” and Indian Land.

A group of Native American activists lived on Alcatraz in protest to the United States’ termination act which called to disband tribes and sell their land.

For 19 months the Indians of All Tribes, which they called themselves, held the rock. During which time they set up schools to educate their children, elected a council, and ensured everyone voted on all decisions.

Eventually, the federal government removed them, however, that did not change the fact that this occupation incited a new level of activism among the community.

Gardens of Alcatraz

After visiting the cell house and the exhibits, take some time to walk through the grounds of Alcatraz. 

These gardens, including the rose garden, were planted by some of the Alcatraz prisoners and have been flourishing as the buildings around them crumbled.

Now, I’m not a plant expert, but I have to say that the vibrant and lively color of the plants set next to the imposing yet decaying buildings is quite beautiful.

Alcatraz gardens

Alcatraz Combo Tour

You’ll see many tour packages offering combo Alcatraz tours. Many tour companies combine an Alcatraz tour with a San Francisco city tour or a guided bike tour. In complete transparency, Alcatraz is incredibly easy to visit yourself.

The only Alcatraz combo tour I’ve seen that looks worth the money is combined with Muir Woods and Sausalito. If you don’t have a car, it can be difficult to get to Muir Woods, but it’s one of the best places to see Redwoods near San Francisco. And Sausalito is a charming town with great food and views of the city skyline.

You can book the Alcatraz and Muir Woods combo tour here .

How to Get to Alcatraz Island ?

Alcatraz is located on an island in the middle of the San Francisco Bay, about 1.5 miles off the coast of Fisherman’s Wharf. The only way to get to Alcatraz Island is via ferry.

Alcatraz City Cruises is the official ferry to Alcatraz. The ferry departs from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing every 30 minutes starting at 9:30 am.

Pier 33 is very well located on the Embarcadero near other famous landmarks like the Ferry Building and Pier 39. It is an easy walking distance from many downtown and North Beach hotels.

Once on board the ferry it’s a short 15 minute boat ride across to Alcatraz.

Public Transportation to Pier 33

However, if you need transportation to Pier 33, MUNI has three stops within a few blocks of the Pier.

  • F Line Historic Streetcar – use the Bay Street stop
  • #8 Bayshore – use Kearny Street & North Point stop
  • #82X Levi Plaza Express – use Levi Plaza, Sansome & Filbert Street stop 

Parking at Pier 33

If you choose to drive to Pier 33 know that street parking in this area is hard to come by. If you do happen to find a spot on the street, it is likely metered parking for a maximum of two hours and you’ve got a good chance of getting a parking ticket if you overstay.

Instead, pay to park in a lot. There are parking lots at Pier 39, 27, and 29.5. I also use the app SpotHero to find parking lots and pay in advance.

Cable Cars to Pier 33

If you’re staying in Union Square, you could ride cable cars to Pier 33! Hop on the Powell-Mason cable car line to the end at Bay & Taylor in North Beach . It’s a 6 block walk to Pier 33 from there and you’d be checking off quite a few fun things to do in San Francisco.

staircase at Alcatraz leading to cell house

How Much Does it Cost to Visit Alcatraz?

Alcatraz ticket prices depend on the type of tour you’re planning to do.

An Alcatraz day tour costs:

  • $46.65/senior

An Alcatraz night tour costs:

  • $56.50/adult
  • $53.00/senior
  • $36.60/child

Included in the price of the ticket is the round trip ferry ride, the cell block audio tour, docent talks, and two additional exhibits. 

While Alcatraz is run by the National Park Service, the America the Beautiful National Park pass does not work here.

Be advised during the summer months Alcatraz tour tickets sell out well in advance. If visiting this top San Francisco tourist attraction is a must do for your visit to San Francisco, book in advance from the official website of Alcatraz City Cruises.

view of San Francisco from the Alcatraz ferry

How Long is the Alcatraz Tour?

On my recent visit to Alcatraz it took us 2.5 hours from boarding the ferry at Pier 33 to boarding the ferry from Alcatraz island. During this time we did the cell block audio tour, walked through the gardens, and saw the two exhibits. The best part about your Alcatraz visit is that you can take it at your own pace.

As you’re not following a tour guide around, you can linger over areas of interest or enjoy the views of San Francisco from one of the walking paths. Once you’re done, visit the gift shop before you go if you’re so inclined then enjoy the short ferry ride back to Pier 33 and the rest of your San Francisco adventure!

Are you planning to visit Alcatraz Island during your trip to San Francisco? I hope you found the information in this post helpful in planning your very own Alcatraz tour. If you have any questions, leave a comment below and I’ll be sure to answer them!

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Alcatraz guide: what to know before a trip to Alcatraz Prison

Alcatraz Prison on Alcatraz island

Alcatraz. The Rock. The most famous high-security prison in the world located on Alcatraz Island, only a mile and a quarter away from San Francisco. We’ve read about Alcatraz prison in books, we’ve seen it in movies (Clint Eastwood’s Escape from Alcatraz  is featured on our  Best movies set in San Francisco post!) and we’ve heard endless stories about its famous inmates.

Almost everyone visiting San Francisco has Alcatraz prison on their bucket list . To make it easier for you, I’ve created a complete Alcatraz guide, including important information and everything you need to know to plan your trip to Alcatraz.

Alcatraz barracks and guard tower

1. Alcatraz history

Alcatraz Island is mostly known for its use as a high-security federal prison from 1934 to 1963. Before that however, it was a military fort, a military prison and even a lighthouse (the first lighthouse on the Pacific Coast from 1854!). During its time as a federal penitentiary, it was home to not only inmates, but also to the correctional officers, the warden and their respective families.

Alcatraz was closed in 1963 by order of US Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy. The last prisoner off Alcatraz island was Frank C. Weatherman, a gun smuggler. The Rock was briefly occupied by American Indian activists (you can read more about this further down ). It’s now managed by the National Park Service and is part of the Golden Gate National Parks Conservatory, holding a huge historical significance.

Alcatraz prison showers

2. Famous Alcatraz inmates

Since its opening in 1934 until its closure in 1963, a total of 1,545 men did time in Alcatraz. The majority of them were incorrigible prisoners coming from other institutions, either violent or considered escape risks. They remained here an average of 8 to 10 years until they were no longer considered dangerous.

Some of the most famous Alcatraz prisoners include:

  • Al “Scarface” Capone (whose exact cell is unknown)
  • George “Machine Gun” Kelly
  • Robert Stroud (aka the “Birdman of Alcatraz”)
  • Alvin “Creepy” Karpis
  • “Doc” Barker

Famous Alcatraz prisoners - Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly

3. Alcatraz Escape, June 1962

A total of 14 escapes from Alcatraz prison were attempted, but there’s one that stands out as the most elaborate. On the evening of 11 June 1962, prisoners Frank Morris and brothers Clarence and John Anglin were able to escape from their cells and left Alcatraz Island thanks to a makeshift raincoat floating raft, homemade wooden paddles and life vests. They are thought to have drowned, but since their bodies were never found, the true result of the most famous Alcatraz escape remains a mystery!

In Alcatraz cell

Their plan consisted of escaping through a loosened air vent in their cell wall. This led into an unguarded utility corridor and up to a concealed area above the the cell block where they set up a secret workshop. To fool the night guards, they created dummy heads out of plaster, paint and pieces of their own hair and arranged them in a sleeping position on their beds.

  • When in Alcatraz: See the cells of Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers, as well as their makeshift dummy heads inside the cellhouse.

4. American Indian Occupation of Alcatraz Island

After the prison closed in 1963, Alcatraz Island was occupied by a group of American Indian activists as a statement for the American Indian rights movement. In fact, The Rock was occupied a total of three times: once in 1964 for just four hours, and twice beginning in 1969 and ending in 1971.

They reclaimed Alcatraz Island in the name of the “Indians of All Tribes” and offered to buy it from the Federal Government for $24 in trade goods. However, they were finally removed from The Rock after the struggle to supply them with food and water became imminent.

  • When in Alcatraz: Check out the Alcatraz Water Tower next to the Military Chapel to see this iconic graffiti:  “Peace and freedom welcome. Home of the free Indian land.”

Alzactraz water tower - Indian occupation

5. Battle of Alcatraz

Also known as  The Battle of ’46 , it resulted in the death of three inmates and two prison guards. Prisoner Bernard Coy took advantage of Alcatraz prison’s security flaws, used a makeshift bar spreader to squeeze between bars and entered the gun gallery to access some weapons. Five other inmates joined him and helped hold guards hostage. By the time they located the key to the recreation yard (which would secure their escape), the door was jammed from trying the wrong keys. The recreation key had been previously concealed (against regulations) by officer Miller, later killed. This resulted in the prisoners being trapped in the cellhouse.

  • When in Alcatraz:  Keep your eyes peeled for the grenade marks on the cellhouse floor and the spread iron bars leading to the gun gallery.

Alcatraz escape bar splitter

6. Important information for before you visit Alcatraz Island

How to get to alcatraz island.

The only way to access Alcatraz Island is through Alcatraz Cruises. This is the official ferry of the San Francisco jail and includes a roundtrip to The Rock and back, as well as a selection of tours to visit the island’s buildings.

The Alcatraz cruise leaves from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing on The Embarcadero waterfront, just a stone’s throw from San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf.

Alcatraz Cruise and Alcatraz island

Alcatraz ticket prices

Alcatraz tickets can be bought either online or at the Alcatraz Cruises Ticketbooth and include the ferry ticket and access to Alcatraz. We recommend buying them online in advance, as Alcatraz cruise tickets can sell out and same-day tickets might not be available to purchase onsite.

Alcatraz ticket prices range from $24.40 for children to $39.90 for adults for Day Tours. Senior and family pack tickets are also available.

Visit www.alcatrazcruises.com for more information.

Alcatraz opening hours and departure times

Alcatraz opening hours vary between seasons – from around 8.40am to 6.30pm in spring/summer, and 9.10am to 4.45pm in autumn/winter. Make sure you check the Alcatraz Cruises website in advance to plan your trip.

Ferry departure times are available around every half an hour.

Alcatraz is open every day expect for Christmas, Thanksgiving and New Year’s day.

What to wear to Alcatraz Island?

San Francisco’s weather is unpredictable and changes constantly. You can expect fog, clouds, rain and sun on the same day. We recommend bringing comfortable shoes, suncream, layers and a raincoat if possible. This also comes in handy when travelling on the ferry, as the cold water from the waves often makes its way onboard.

7. Visiting Alcatraz

How long does it take to see alcatraz.

We recommend allowing around 2.5h-3h to explore Alcatraz. The Day Tour is the best way to see Alcatraz at your own pace. It includes a round boat trip from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing to Alcatraz Island and back, as well as exploring the outside buildings and the prison cellhouse.

An Alcatraz Night Tour, Behind the Scenes Tour and a combo Alcatraz and Angel Island Tour are also available throughout the year.

In Alcatraz prison

What to see at Alcatraz?

Apart from the areas mentioned above, you’ll be able to explore:

  • Guard Tower
  • Guardhouse and Sally Port
  • Military Chapel
  • Post Exchange and Officers’ Club: Which included a recreation hall with a dance floor, gym, bowling alley and a soda fountain! Unfortunately, a fire in June 1970 destroyed several of the buildings but you can still see their remains.
  • Electric Repair Shop
  • Baracks/Apartments: Where the prison guards and their families lived.
  • Alcatraz Water Tower
  • Military Morgue
  • Warden’s House:  A large Mission-Revival style house initially used by the military prison commandant was later occupied by the warden.
  • Alcatraz Cellhouse
  • Recreation Yard
  • Model Industries Building
  • The Gardens of Alcatraz: One of them, “The Children’s Garden”, was used to plant small pots to keep the children occupied. It’s now part of the historic Alcatraz Gardens project.

Cellhouse audio tour

Audio guides are available in different languages and are provided at the entrance of the cellhouse. The Alcatraz cellhouse audio tour is a great way to learn more about life in the prison thanks to excerpts narrated by former inmates and correctional officers. Once inside Alcatraz prison, you’ll be able to enter some cells and solitary confinement cells, as well as the showers, library, cafeteria, recreation yard and the warden’s office. You’ll also be able to see the cells of Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers. Also, the grenade marks on the cell house floor and the spread iron bars from the Battle of ’46.

Remember to also visit the Alcatraz shop to get a souvenir to remember your visit too. I bought a postcard to add to my postcard collection !

 Map of Alcatraz  

Have you been to Alcatraz before? Is there anything that I’ve missed and you would recommend or anything else you’d like to know about Alcatraz? I’d love to know! If you loved our guide to Alcatraz , please leave us a comment, pin some photos and show us some love on social media using the buttons below.

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Really interesting post with lots of good info! I would love to see Alcatraz at some point.

' src=

Thank you Alexis! Hope you get to visit Alcatraz soon – it’s a must!

' src=

Alcatraz has been near the top of my bucket list for most of my adult life. I am fascinated by it’s history, reading every book and watching every documentary that I have been able to find. To be able to walk around and see the location first hand would be amazing! Thank you for sharing – I loved seeing all of your photos.

Thanks Britt! Everyone visiting Fan Francisco should have Alcatraz on their bucket list. It’s definitely a place worth exploring. It’s strange walking around what was once a high-security prison; I’m sure it’ll make a huge impact on you as it did on us!

' src=

Excellent post. Really detailed and helpful. We went to Alcatraz years ago and I’d love to go again.

Thanks Graham! Alcatraz was always a place I was curious about. I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting San Francisco.

' src=

Awesome post with a lot of interesting stuff to know. I was there when I was 17, I think. Loved the experience. I’d love to go back.

Thanks Dominique! So glad you liked the experience, it’s one I would absolutely recommend to anyone visiting San Francisco.

' src=

Alcatraz is one of the best tours I’ve taken. I usually hate the recorded tour with the headset but this was amazing, and loved the super creepy vibe of the island. Great informative post, and such great info on all the history. I’d love to do a night tour next time I’m there

Thank you Emma! I agree, Alcatraz is such a must for everyone visiting San Francisco. Great content and very informative audio guide!

' src=

This was cool but I think I’ll accept your tour as my visit… lol very interesting though I couldn’t imagine living there with my family like huh who?@&$ I love how the Indians tried to reclaim their land and left their mark! thanks for sharing,

Thanks for the comment! It can be quite sinister indeed, but definitely a place full of history!

' src=

Looks so charming like it’s not a prison. Really secluded island..

It’s actually pretty eerie inside! But a great place to explore nevertheless (now that it’s no longer a prison)!

' src=

I would love to visit Alcatraz if I ever get the chance, I hadn’t read anything about the escapees in 1962 before so I am going to have a little look online! Great post, really enjoyed reading it.

Thank you Sophie! You should absolutely visit Alcatraz when you get the chance. The audio guide is a fantastic way to learn more about the building and how it became to be what it is today x

' src=

Great post and pics!! We visited Alcatraz like 7 or 8 years ago and it was such an interesting experience!! The headset tour was very informative and we really liked the boat ride to and from!!

Thank you! Alcatraz is definitely worth visiting if you love learning about exceptional buildings!

' src=

Alcatraz is on my must visit bucketlist! I’ve known about it from series and movies and ever since learning about its history, I’ve wanted to go!

I’m so glad Alcatraz is on your bucket list! It’s an eerie place to visit, but it has so much history!

' src=

I got to visit Alcatraz a few years ago so loved reading your post! The audio guide was really informative.

The audio guide content was fantastic!

' src=

This is such an amazing place to visit.

It really is!

' src=

This is so informative! Enjoyed reading it and felt like I was there on tour too! Looking forward to more tours like this 🙂

Ann | http://www.annchoi.me

Thanks Ann! I’m glad you liked reading this post – hopefully it has inspired a little visit next time you’re in SF!

' src=

That’s a load of information and tips! Will be part of my itinerary when I visit SFO. Thanks for sharing the photos!

That’s amazing, glad you liked this post Vinn!

' src=

Wow! I didn’t even know this was an actual spot to visit. I thought it had been closed down and that was that. Very interesting and I loved all the facts that you mentioned.

Thank you! It’s a very interesting and eerie place to visit, but I’d absolutely recommend it if you have the time!

' src=

OMG! 😳What kind of punishment they give?

Being in prison is a punishment in itself!

' src=

I’ve lived in the Bay Area since I was 13 and have never gone, we never plan ahead and getting tickets day of never seems to work out. Gonna put this on my bucket list again to take my kids. Hopefully that will inspire me to get tickets in advance this time around.

Thanks for the great virtual tour!

Thanks for the comment Patty! We actually booked the tickets a couple of months in advance to make sure we had them. I’d recommend planning this trip beforehand and pick a day when you know you’ll be free!

' src=

Great post!! My husband and I traveled cross country and hit San Francisco right before Covid hit and that was one place we unfortunately didn’t get to visit. I heard about the escape however I never heard about the battle of Alcatraz. Very interesting! Next time I go to San Fran that’s on my list! I also thought I saw tickets for spending the night in Alcatraz 😶

Thanks Aslinn! I didn’t know you could spend the night there! But if that’s the case, I don’t think I’ll be doing it anytime soon lol!

' src=

Loved reading this post, Ive wanted to visit Alcatraz since I was little and makes me want to even more.

Thank you! Hopefully you can visit soon and tick it off your bucket list!

' src=

Wow! Never thought I’d say this but really want to visit this prison. LOL. Looks like such an interesting place to visit.

Thanks for sharing!

MagicandBliss | https://magicandbliss.com/

It’s a strange place indeed, but very interesting to to visit!

' src=

Good post! We really enjoyed our trip to Alcatraz when we went!

Thanks Tamra! Glad you had a great time exploring Alcatraz too!

' src=

Wow I’ve always wanted to go! Looks like such a good trip

It is! Definitely one to add to your bucket list.

' src=

Very interesting information in this post! I was unaware of a lot of the history. I’ve never been, but I would love to check it out one day!

Thanks Cheyenne! Alcatraz is definitely a place worth visiting!

' src=

If I ever visit the US, this is one of the places I would love to see. It looks like a great tour, if not a little spooky! You have packed so much information into this post, so it will definitely help with planning the trip!

Thanks for sharing! Aimsy xoxo Aimsy’s Antics

Thanks for the lovely comment, Aimsy! I’m glad you’ve found it helpful and inspiring x

' src=

Oh my gosh this was so interesting! If I ever went to San Francisco, this would definitely be up there on the top things I’d want to do. I can imagine it’s so interesting but also pretty eerie at the same time.

Definitely! It’s a bit spooky to be in a former prison, but it’s very well done and you always know you’re on a tour! Definitely worth visiting when you’re in San Francisco! x

' src=

This is a really interesting post! I know a little about the history, but not the same amount that is mentioned here x

Thank you Kayleigh! I’m glad you’ve found this post interesting x

' src=

So amazing! Sometimes with the lore of it all you forget it really existed! Great post!

Awe thank you!

' src=

This looks so cool! I love true crime and I would have to listen to a million true crime podcasts before taking a visit here haha. I’d love to go to San Francisco one day and this is definitely near the top of my list!

Thanks Kalin, I’m sure you’ll love visiting Alcatraz! Hopefully you get to do soon x

' src=

Wow!! This is an interesting article. You’ve put in all the information available quite efficiently.

Thanks so much!

' src=

Very cool and what creativity to escape! I’m surprised they allowed inmates to have ukulele’s in their cell?

Inmates were allowed some personal items, so I guess it was up to the prison to decide which ones they could possess!

' src=

I have always wanted to go to San Fran & Alcatraz! My sister went last year and told me lots of this stuff! I love films about escaping from prison and I love The Rock!

Thanks for the comment Rosie! Hopefully you can get to visit soon yourself! x

' src=

Somewhere I’ve always wanted to visit. Even more so after reading this!

Yay! I’m sure you’ll have a great time exploring!

' src=

Isn’t it a little sadistic that we all want to go to Alcatraz

Very much so!

' src=

Thanks for sharing, this was a really interestijg overview of the history! Yiur advice in how to get there Nd what to see arw great. Maybe when travel opens up again we will get to visit 😊

Thank you! I’m glad you’ve found this post interesting!

' src=

very interesting and informative post.

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Alerts in effect, island of incarceration, island of freedom.

Alcatraz reveals stories of American incarceration, justice, and our common humanity. This small island was once a fort, a military prison, and a maximum security federal penitentiary. In 1969, the Indians of All Tribes occupied Alcatraz for 19 months in the name of freedom and Native American civil rights. We invite you to explore Alcatraz's complex history and natural beauty.

More than 2.3 million people are behind bars in the United States. Learn more about the new exhibition open now, on Alcatraz Island.

There are plenty of ways that you can visit Alcatraz from wherever you are in the world. Here are just a few!

Find out about accessible features on Alcatraz Island.

In 1969 Indigenous activists occupied Alcatraz for 19 months. Learn more about the 50th anniversary and commemorative exhibit.

Safety, accessibility, and planning a successful visit to Alcatraz in ASL.

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Last updated: January 12, 2024

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Alcatraz Island Golden Gate National Recreation Area B201 Fort Mason San Francisco, CA 94123

415-561-4900 United States Park Police Dispatch: Non-Emergency: 415-561-5505 Emergency: 415-561-5656

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Alcatraz Tour Options

As the official concessioner to the National Park Service, Alcatraz City Cruises offers in-depth visits to Alcatraz. Your visit includes round-trip transportation to the Island and outdoor National Park access.

Alcatraz Tour Options Overview

Pertinent information.

At Alcatraz City Cruises, our guests’ well-being is our number one priority. We have proudly implemented new COVID-19 procedures to keep everyone safe & healthy.

Age Policy Adult- 18-61 / Junior- 12-17 / Senior- 62+ / Child- 5-11 / Toddler 4 and under are Free

Minors under the age of 18 are not allowed to tour Alcatraz Island without the accompaniment of an adult.

Group Tours If booking a group of 20 or more people, please contact the Alcatraz City Cruises Group Services Department at 415.438.8361; or e-mail  [email protected]

Ticket Price

Please refer to our  Fee Breakout FAQ  for complete overview of Alcatraz Island ticket prices.

Alcatraz Island Named #1 Landmark in the U.S.

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Alcatraz City Cruises is a Proud Partner and Authorized Concessioner of the National Park Service

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IMAGES

  1. 5 Reasons to Make a School Field Trip to Alcatraz East Crime Museum a

    alcatraz school trip

  2. 5 Reasons to Make a School Field Trip to Alcatraz East Crime Museum a

    alcatraz school trip

  3. How to Visit Alcatraz with Kids

    alcatraz school trip

  4. Images of the past

    alcatraz school trip

  5. Alcatraz with Kids: The Complete Guide

    alcatraz school trip

  6. Your Guide to Visiting Alcatraz with Kids

    alcatraz school trip

VIDEO

  1. A Trip to Alcatraz Island on a beautiful day

  2. Alcatraz Escape: The Story and Mysteries of the Famous Cell Breakout

  3. Alcatraz tour trip April 2024 part 1

  4. Famous Alcatraz Prison

  5. Visiting Alcatraz for the first time

  6. ALCATRAZ TRIP 2024 AUDIO TOUR

COMMENTS

  1. Education

    Ranger-led field trips for the 2023-2024 school year will be accepting program Education Reservation Request Forms as of August 25, 2023. Teachers will be informed if their class was accepted to a program by September 26, 2023. Field trips to the park will resume in mid-October 2023 - end of May 2024. To be considered for a program, please ...

  2. Educational Groups

    Offering An Educational Experience. School groups include grades Kindergarten through Grade 12, as well as community colleges and college/universities. If you would like to bring a school group of 20 students or more to Alcatraz Island, you must request permission in advance. Excite your students about the mysteries of Alcatraz with two dynamic ...

  3. Plan Your Visit

    The most important thing to know when planning a trip to Alcatraz is that all access to the island is through a private ferry company under contract with the National Park Service, ... Alcatraz Landing at Pier 33 in San Francisco is fully accessible. There is limited accessible parking at Pier 33, available on a first-come, first-served basis. ...

  4. How to Visit Alcatraz with Kids

    If you're planning on getting off and walking around Alcatraz, get tickets on the right boat (alcatrazcruises.com). Tickets to ride the boat aren't cheap (around $40 per adult), but that is the total cost. There isn't any entry fee or additional cost to do the audio tour of the cellhouse. By way of practical tips:

  5. Alcatraz Community Access

    Alcatraz School Access Ticket Program: Tickets for self-guided field trips are also available to public schools that have a high percentage of students receiving free and reduced lunches, and private schools with a high percentage of scholarship recipients. Tickets are available by application only for visits between November and May, excluding ...

  6. The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Alcatraz Island with Kids

    The ten minute ferry trip to Alcatraz from Pier 33 may be short, but during that time you'll take in some of the most spectacular views of the Bay you can imagine. As the ferry zooms out you'll see the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Bridges, Treasure Island, Angel Island, Coit Tower, the TransAmerica Building, Sausalito, the East Bay and, of ...

  7. Alcatraz with Kids

    Alcatraz Island is located in the San Francisco Bay and reached by ferry only. The Alcatraz Ferry Terminal is located at Pier 33 on The Embarcadero. Alcatraz Cruises is the only ferry that stops at Alcatraz Island. Parking is an issue while visiting Downtown San Francisco. During my trip, I used public transportation and left my car at my hotel.

  8. How to Visit Alcatraz Island in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, and More

    Admission: $41 for adults, $25 for children (5-11 years), $41 for juniors (12-17 years), $38 for seniors (62+ years) Family Pricing: $119.60 total for 2 adults + 2 children 5-11years. Address: 31 San Francisco Pier 33 - Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, CA. Pro Tip: Skip the line by booking your ticket online ahead of time or getting more out ...

  9. Middle School Earth Science Field Trips

    Alcatraz Island: Field Trips to Alcatraz: San Francisco: Alcatraz Cruises is the official National Park Concessionaire for Alcatraz. School groups include grades Kindergarten through Grade 12. If you would like to bring a school group of 15 students or more to Alcatraz Island, you must request permission in advance.

  10. Visit Alcatraz With Kids

    What to expect on Alcatraz with kids. There are a few different tour options. My best estimate for a standard tour with children is about 2-3 hours (including the ferry ride). Alcatraz Tour tickets include a round-trip ferry ride (15 minutes each way); access to wander the island; a one-hour self-guided audio tour; Junior Rangers activity book ...

  11. 2nd Grade Earth Science Field Trips

    Alcatraz Island: Field Trips to Alcatraz: San Francisco: Alcatraz Cruises is the official National Park Concessionaire for Alcatraz. School groups include grades Kindergarten through Grade 12. If you would like to bring a school group of 15 students or more to Alcatraz Island, you must request permission in advance.

  12. Tips for Visiting Alcatraz + The Best Alcatraz Tours

    Alcatraz is located on an island in the middle of the San Francisco Bay, about 1.5 miles off the coast of Fisherman's Wharf. The only way to get to Alcatraz Island is via ferry. Alcatraz City Cruises is the official ferry to Alcatraz. The ferry departs from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing every 30 minutes starting at 9:30 am.

  13. Alcatraz

    One year price guarantee. Full trip support and planning. Alcatraz tickets include the ferry ride to the island and an audio tour of the cell blocks. Tours can fill up fast, especially during holidays and summer months, so planning ahead is best. Alcatraz Student Kit quantity. Alcatraz Student Kit. $ 70.00.

  14. Alcatraz guide: what to know before a trip to Alcatraz Prison

    Some of the most famous Alcatraz prisoners include: Al "Scarface" Capone (whose exact cell is unknown) George "Machine Gun" Kelly. Robert Stroud (aka the "Birdman of Alcatraz") Alvin "Creepy" Karpis. "Doc" Barker. 3. Alcatraz Escape, June 1962. A total of 14 escapes from Alcatraz prison were attempted, but there's one that ...

  15. Dive Deep Into The History of Alcatraz

    The Battle of Alcatraz. On May 2, 1942, residents of San Francisco, alerted by wailing sirens, gathered on the waterfront to watch smoke rising from Alcatraz Island. A group of prisoners, led by bank robber Bernard Coy, had broken into the prison gun gallery. Arming themselves and setting other prisoners free, they took several guards hostage ...

  16. Alcatraz Island (U.S. National Park Service)

    Alcatraz reveals stories of American incarceration, justice, and our common humanity. This small island was once a fort, a military prison, and a maximum security federal penitentiary. In 1969, the Indians of All Tribes occupied Alcatraz for 19 months in the name of freedom and Native American civil rights. We invite you to explore Alcatraz's complex history and natural beauty.

  17. Alcatraz Island

    Alcatraz Island (/ ˈ æ l k ə ˌ t r æ z /) is a small island 1.25 miles (2.01 km) offshore from San Francisco, California, United States. The island was developed in the mid-19th century with facilities for a lighthouse, a military fortification, and a military prison.In 1934, the island was converted into a federal prison, Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary. ...

  18. Alcatraz Tours & Tickets (Official Provider)

    Family Packs. Family Packs are available for Day Tours only. The Family Pack includes 2 Adult and 2 Child (ages 5-11) tour tickets. Group Tours. If booking a group of 20 or more people, please contact the Alcatraz City Cruises Group Services Department at 415.438.8361; or e-mail [email protected]. Ticket Price.

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