Visiting Alcatraz: What to Know Before Stepping onto The Rock

Alcatraz Island is one of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks, drawing millions of visitors every year. Famous for its eerie prison history, breathtaking views, and chilling escape stories, this island in the middle of San Francisco Bay is a must-visit for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

If you're planning a visit, here’s everything you need to know before stepping onto The Rock—including how to get the best (and cheapest) tickets!

A Brief History of Alcatraz

Before becoming the infamous federal prison, Alcatraz had many lives. It was first used as a military fortress in the mid-1800s before transforming into a maximum-security prison in 1934. Over the years, it housed some of America’s most dangerous criminals, including:

• Al Capone – The infamous mobster who ran Chicago’s crime scene.
• Robert Stroud – Also known as the “Birdman of Alcatraz,” a criminal turned ornithologist.
• George “Machine Gun” Kelly – A notorious gangster and kidnapper.
• Frank Morris & The Anglin Brothers – The masterminds behind the legendary 1962 escape, whose fate remains unknown.

Alcatraz prison closed in 1963, and in 1969, it was occupied by Native American activists during the Red Power Movement. Today, the island is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and is a top attraction in San Francisco.

How to Get to Alcatraz

🚢 Taking the Official Ferry

The only way to visit Alcatraz is by ferry, operated exclusively by Alcatraz City Cruises. The ferries depart from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing, located near Fisherman’s Wharf.

⏰ Departure Times: Ferries leave throughout the day, but it's best to check the official schedule. There are also special Night Tours for a spookier experience!

🕒 Duration: The entire experience (including the ferry ride and exploring the island) takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.

💡 TIP: Get to Pier 33 at least 30 minutes early to ensure smooth boarding and a good spot on the ferry!

How to Get the Best & Cheapest Tickets

🎫 1. Book in Advance

Alcatraz tickets sell out weeks in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. The best place to buy them is directly from Alcatraz City Cruises’ official website, where prices are standard and there are no hidden fees.

💰 2. Choose the Right Tour for Your Budget

There are several types of Alcatraz tours:

• 📅 Day Tour (£38/$45) – The most affordable option, includes ferry, entrance, and the self-guided Cellhouse Audio Tour.
• 🌙 Night Tour (£48/$56) – A more immersive and eerie experience with extra ranger-led programs.
• 🎟 Alcatraz & Angel Island Combo (£60/$72) – Includes a visit to another historic island with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

💸 3. Look for Discounted Tickets

• National Park Pass Holders – While you still need to pay for the ferry, sometimes there are special discounts for pass holders.
• San Francisco CityPASS & Go City Card – These passes bundle multiple attractions (like Alcatraz, Muni transportation, and museums) for a lower price.
• Last-Minute Resale Tickets – If tickets are sold out, check tour companies or resellers for cancellations (but be careful of scammers!).

⚠️ Avoid Third-Party Websites

Some websites sell overpriced or fake Alcatraz tickets. Only trust the official Alcatraz City Cruises website or reputable travel platforms like GetYourGuide or Viator.

What to Expect on Alcatraz Island

Once you step off the ferry, you’ll feel the island’s eerie atmosphere. The self-guided Cellhouse Audio Tour is a must-do, as it features real recordings from former guards and prisoners, bringing Alcatraz’s dark past to life.

🏛 Key Highlights:

• 🖤 The Cell Blocks – Walk through the tiny cells where prisoners lived and see the solitary confinement cells in D Block.
• 🔐 The Escape Route – Visit the spot where Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers made their daring escape attempt in 1962.
• 🌉 Stunning Views – Alcatraz offers some of the best panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and Bay Bridge.
• 🦅 Wildlife & Gardens – Surprisingly, Alcatraz is home to lush gardens and a variety of seabirds, including cormorants and egrets.

💡 TIP: If you’re visiting in the afternoon, stay for sunset—the view from Alcatraz at golden hour is breathtaking!

Best Tips for Your Visit

✔ Wear comfortable shoes – The island has steep and uneven paths.

✔ Dress in layers – San Francisco weather is unpredictable, and it gets chilly on the water.

✔ Bring a camera – The views of the city and Golden Gate Bridge are incredible!

✔ Listen to the audio guide – It’s one of the best parts of the tour.

✔ Respect the island – Alcatraz is a historical site, so avoid leaving trash or damaging anything.

Is Alcatraz Haunted? 👻

Many visitors (and even park rangers) claim to have experienced strange sounds, cold spots, and unexplained noises inside the prison. Some say they’ve heard whispers in the cells or footsteps echoing down empty hallways.

Whether you believe in ghosts or not, Alcatraz’s eerie silence and dark history make it one of the most chilling places in the U.S.. If you love paranormal stories, the Night Tour is the best way to experience the island’s spooky side!

Final Thoughts: Is Alcatraz Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Whether you’re interested in history, crime stories, or just want to see one of San Francisco’s most famous landmarks, Alcatraz is a must-see attraction. With a mix of breathtaking views and a haunting past, The Rock is an unforgettable experience.