Explore Alcatraz — San Francisco’s island of stories
Once a Civil War fort, later a maximum‑security federal penitentiary, and now a national park, Alcatraz is layered with history.
Walk the cellblocks with the famous audio tour, wander past the lighthouse and gardens, and discover the Native American occupation that reshaped U.S.
policy — all with unforgettable bay views..
Alcatraz Island & Former Federal Penitentiary Visiting timetable
Ferries run most days year‑round; schedules vary by season. The Cellhouse and exhibits operate during island open hours — last entry can be before the final return ferry.
Alcatraz Island & Former Federal Penitentiary Closing Days
Open year‑round, weather permitting. Storms, maintenance, or special events can affect service; schedules may differ on major holidays.
Where is Located
Alcatraz Island, San Francisco Bay, California, USA
How to get to Alcatraz
All visitors reach the island by ferry from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing on The Embarcadero. Book timed tickets in advance — popular departures sell out.
By Train
From BART: exit at Embarcadero Station, then walk along The Embarcadero approx. 25 minutes or take the historic F‑Line streetcar to Bay St (near Pier 33). From Caltrain (4th & King), take Muni T/KT or N to Embarcadero, then F‑Line north.
By Car
There’s no parking at Pier 33. Use Fisherman’s Wharf/Embarcadero garages and allow extra time — traffic and parking fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
By Bus
Muni lines 8, 30, 49, and the F/E historic streetcars serve the waterfront. Disembark near Bay St or Pier 39 and walk to Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing.
On Foot
Walk the flat Embarcadero promenade to Pier 33. You can’t walk to the island itself — all access is by scheduled ferry only.
Why visit Alcatraz
The legendary Cellhouse Audio Tour, dramatic prison stories, wild gardens and seabirds, and the best skyline and bridge views in the bay.
Alcatraz Island & Former Federal Penitentiary
The Cellhouse and Audio Tour
Walk past tiers of iron bars, D‑Block, and the dining hall while the audio tour brings real voices of officers and inmates to your ears.
Recreation Yard, Lighthouse, and Overlooks
Stand where inmates played ball, see the lighthouse that guided ships since the 1850s, and take in panoramic bay and bridge views.
Historic Gardens & Seabirds
Discover resilient island gardens tended by families and caretakers, alongside nesting cormorants, gulls, and other sea life.
Alcatraz at a glance
Quick answers for a smooth island visit.
Book your Alcatraz visit
Choose day, night, or behind‑the‑scenes tours.
Timed ferries, audio tours, and ranger programs included on select options.