Tips for Visiting Alcatraz

Written by Viator, December 2010

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Must-Do Experience, Tip - Dos & Don'ts, Tip - Weather, Tip - When to Go, Viator Top Pick, Island, Monument - Historical

So you're in San Francisco and you're looking to visit what the locals call “The Rock”. Anything you need to know? In short, yes. Aside from its extensive history as a military barracks, prison, and Native American political settlement, tours and ferry rides to Alcatraz routinely sell out early, so if you’re thinking of booking your tickets, the old adage, “the early bird gets the worm” applies here.

Originally acquired for the US by John C Fremont in 1846 for the whopping grand total of $5,000, The Rock was eyed by the Army Corps of Engineers to become a fortified military outpost, later known as Fortress Alcatraz. Civil War broke out and due to its isolation, Alcatraz was considered a prime location for internment purposes. Alcatraz held Civil War prisoners and Southern sympathizers as early as 1861. In 1933, Alcatraz became a federal prison and during its 29 years in operation, notable criminals such as Al Capone and Mickey Cohen were held here. It was also here at The Rock, that some of the most infamous escape attempts were made, though official record declares that not one of those attempts was successful.

The ferry to Alcatraz Island is located down on Fisherman's Wharf and for those unfamiliar with the San Francisco weather - it can be quite moody. Fog and sunshine, hot and cold, you never really know, so it’s best to dress in layers. Once you get to Alcatraz Island, your tour will begin. Purchasing an audio guide is highly recommended, even for those historians who usually eschew such extras. The day-to-day operational noises of a huge prison are brought to life, like the sound of cells crashing closed and inmates clattering in the dining hall.

Most importantly, enjoy yourself! Alcatraz is a widely popular destination and there’s a reason: people simply love it. From hearing about daring escape attempts to the chilling energy inside the cells, to the stunning views from the ferry ride over, you’re sure to come away with some fabulous memories.

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Reply by Biocare TA, USA, May 2012

Doing what: Alcatraz and San Francisco City Tour

It was a wonderful tour put together by Shannah.

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Reply by WD40+, Australia, May 2012

Doing what: Alcatraz and San Francisco City Tour

The city tour was very informative and picturesque, Alcatraz was a must see especially with the audio

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Reply by katrina s, May 2012

Doing what: Alcatraz and San Francisco City Tour

This was an incredible day. Great if you havnt got a lot of time and you want to see a lot. Alcatraz was fascinating but be warned, wear something warm, even if it's a nice day! You get a really good tour around the different parts of San Francisco, a couple of tops to get out and Akers photos. There is about an hours break for lunch before Alcatraz but not many places to eat without walking far so you might want to take a snack with you if you.