This was our second trip so we knew to book ahead online. It is simple to do and you can preprint your tickets and avoid lines and extra time at boarding. The trip over on a clear day is spectacular. Our first time was so foggy we couldn't see the Golden Gate, so hope for a good weather day! The self-guided audio tour is excellent and if you have the time there are various Ranger talks that provide even more info and history. The walk up to start the tour could be a problem for some, but a tram is available for those needing help. Once on the tour, you really get a feel for what it was like for staff and prisoners while assigned to Alcatraz. Very interesting and well worth the trip. The crowds are a bit overwhelming but it worked out fine.
Take the first ferry out to the island and do the audio tour.With taking the first ferry you have not got the same amount off people around getting in the way etc.
This was the highlight of my trip to San Francisco .We booked well in advance to ensure we had tickets and took the audio tour which was fantastic you old really immerse yourself in the place and imagine how it must have been
The high expectations were surpassed. The audio tour lifted the visit from good to not-to-be-missed. Getting the tickets in advance and being on the first boat made for an straightforward boarding,
First thing you need to know is that you need to buy your tickets WELL IN ADVANCE!
Once you get your tickets, be sure you will enjoy the visit!
This was our second time at San Francisco, and we made sure we got the tickets this time (booked them in July). We went on the early bird trip to the island, and we had a great time till we got back (9am to 3pm). Lots of people stay less time, but if you like history and like to spend time with details, you'll need some time to see all the amazing things in this haunting place.
It is amazing to see how the prison worked in its day.
This is definitely a place to visit while in San Francisco.
