About Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz reveals stories of American incarceration, justice, and our common humanity. This small island was once a fort, a military prison, and a maximum security federal penitentiary. In 1969, the Indians of All Tribes occupied Alcatraz for 19 months in the name of freedom and Native American civil rights. We invite you to explore Alcatraz's complex history and natural beauty.
Quick Facts
Operating Hours
Access to Alcatraz Island is via commercial ferry service. For ticket reservation and schedule call (415) 981-7625 or go to www.alcatrazcitycruises.com. The ferry schedule changes seasonally. Alcatraz is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day. Once on the island you can stay up to the last ferry. Be aware that tickets sell out quickly and reservations are recommended. Tickets go on sale 90 days in advance.
Activities
Getting There
The Alcatraz Ferry Terminal is located on Pier 33, near the intersection of The Embarcadero and Bay Street. Ferry tickets are required to get to Alcatraz. Purchase tickets through https://www.alcatrazcitycruises.com/ Commercial parking lots are available near Pier 33, but it is recommended to use public transportation. Visit Transit.511.org for more information on getting to Pier 33 and be sure to check the hours for parking garages.
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Topics & Themes
Things To Do
Birdwatching on Alcatraz
Alcatraz Island is home to thousands of birds. Bring your binoculars and the NPS app to learn about our avian…
See the map below to discover where birds often nest on the Island. We recommend bringing a good pair of…
Visit the New Industries Building
Visit the New Industries Building to see exhibits on Prison Labor and the commemorative exhibit, Red Power on Alcatraz: Perspectives…
This building contains exhibits on Prison Labor and the commemorative exhibit, Red Power on Alcatraz: Perspectives 50 Years Later. Red Power on…
View the Alcatraz Fire Engine
Restored in 2003, this historic Diamond T Fire Engine can be viewed in the garage of the Quartermaster Building.
View the island's restored Diamond T Fire Engine.
Tour the Cellhouse
Listen to the voices of formerly incarcerated men and the correctional officers who guarded them, as they tell you the…
The self-guided tour is available on a hand held device. The narrators guide you from stop to stop. The device…
Explore the Agave Trail
Birds, tidepools and stunning views of the San Francisco can all be found along a short walk on the Agave…
Visitor Centers
Dock Ranger Station
The ranger station at the Alcatraz Island Dock is staffed at all times. Staff here can help you with directions, information, Special Ranger and Junior…
Hours: Just off the ferry from San Francisco, the Dock Ranger Station is where you can get information about Alcatraz Island.
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