Alcatraz

Voyage to Alcatraz

Visited Alcatraz while in San Francisco. It is such a historic place. We loved the short boat ride to the island. Booked the tickets on line about 3 weeks ahead which is important as they sell out.

This is such a cool piece of the Bay Area history. This attraction is almost always booked months in advance. 

Alcatraz Island

Once on Alcatraz there’s a hill to walk up before you get to the prison itself. There’s a tram that runs up and the down the hill for anyone who can’t manage it. The tour is audio-guided and narrated by former Alcatraz guards and inmates and is really well done. It's gritty, informative, and gives an idea of what life was like being in prison here. Interestingly,  Alcatraz was known for having the best food in the prison system.

Welcome

Alcatraz Boat Dock

Learn the history from former prison guards and prisoners themselves and step into the life of an Alcatraz resident as you tour their cells, sit in their cafeteria, and stare at the beautiful-yet-unattainable cityscape a little over a mile away.

Al Capone's Cell

Michigan Ave and A Block

Plan to spend at least two hours on Alcatraz - any less and you're doing yourself a true disfavor. And don’t forget your camera as this island is very photogenic.

 

San Francisco

On a clear day there are beautiful sweeping vistas of the city and the Golden Gate bridge.  Incredibly beautiful.

Golden Gate Bridge

Sometimes the island also plays host to art exhibits and previous guards/inmates who have put their stories on paper (their books are for sale in the gift shop).

SF Fisherman's Wharf

It can get pretty chilly so dressing in layers is a good idea since it can also be quite warm there too. Alcatraz is a wonderful place to see and experience.

Highly recommended.

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