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Explore the Mysterious History of Alcatraz

For many, Alcatraz lives on in infamy as the location of America’s most notorious maximum security prison – keeper of the worst of the worst of criminals. As intriguing as that part of the island’s history is, however, there is much more to the “The Rock” and you can discover it all with one of the many amazing Alcatraz tours.

The penitentiary developed its infamous reputation during the years it was in operation -from 1934 to 1963. Among its most well-known occupants were Al Capone, George "Machine Gun" Kelly, Arthur R. "Doc" Barker and Alvin "Creepy" Karpis.

The prison conditions were extremely rough with no added comforts provided for inmates. D-block was reserved for the most terrible convicts and it is the location of “The Hole” legendary for the brutal treatment meted out there.

Alcatraz Today

Alcatraz is now a public museum and you can walk down “Broadway”, “Michigan Avenue” and its other corridors as you listen to stories of its past. Your Alcatraz admission ticket includes a headset with a 45-minute presentation by former guards and inmates.

Tickets to the island sell out fast so it’s always wise to book well in advance. Want to visit Alcatraz next summer? Book your Alcatraz tour early! Alcatraz tours last minute tickets are hard to come by but it never hurts to check. There are limited same-day walk-up tickets but you have to show up early to get them. Same goes for the night tours but they sell out much faster.

Alcatraz Island is accessible by ferry from Pier 33 at the Alcatraz Landing. Enjoy the company of other tourists and locals also making the must-do trip out to “The Rock!”

Join a thrilling Alcatraz Night Tour

The brave at heart will certainly enjoy this captivating tour. Alcatraz by night takes on its most sinister air and there are those who swear ghosts haunt its walkways. A chilling experience, indeed and definitely on that belongs on your itinerary – if you are up to it!

At the beginning of your tour you can watch the sun set over the San Francisco Bay as darkness shroud the prison. The Alcatraz night tour is made extra special by offering a unique program with activities not included in day tours.

Take a San Francisco Bay Cruise to see Alcatraz plus…

San Francisco teems with a life all of its own! There is so much to experience on a cruise out onto its sparkling waters. The impressive San Francisco skyline beckons to you, telling you that once you’re done with your Alcatraz tours, San Francisco streets and alleyways are yours to explore!

Other notable sights include:
• The Golden Gate Bridge – one of the most recognizable structures in the entire world. On a San Francisco Bay cruise you get the unique perspective of sailing UNDER this awesome and imposing landmark.
• Angel Island – spend some time relaxing at this 37-acre state park. Visit its cafe, cantina and military bases or take the time to go cycling, camping, picnicking or hiking.

You can also join one of these fantastic Alcatraz combo tours to make the most out of your trip:
• San Francisco and Alcatraz Tour – Amazing San Francisco holds many other popular tourist spots. Book a multiday tour that includes not only Alcatraz but perhaps, North Beach, Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf and so much more!
• California Winery and Alcatraz Tour – A splendid idea is to combine a wine tour of California’s most famous vineyards and wineries with your Alcatraz tour. Hop aboard a modern sightseeing bus and venture out to the glorious Napa Valley. Wine tasting in this distinctively Mediterranean atmosphere is an experience to treasure.