Alcatraz Tours

Explore the world-famous Alcatraz Island in combination with our guided San Francisco city tour. Extranomical’s Alcatraz Tour package from San Francisco has been expertly crafted to ensure you have the best, most immersive experience possible.

As an official Alcatraz partner, we have Alcatraz tickets available and are happy to help you gain entry to this wildly popular attraction. Our Alcatraz tour package offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in this notorious prison, experiencing its history and its stories in the best way possible.

If you’re short on time and looking for an alternative to the official Alcatraz Island tour, check out the Escape from the Rock Cruise or our San Francisco Bay Cruises, which offers great views of the island without getting off the boat.

Check out our Alcatraz tours below, and if you have any questions, just contact us!

Alcatraz island view over the blonde girl's shoulder

Guided Alcatraz and San Francisco City Tour

  • 8 Hours
  • 149+

This full-day guided tour breaks you into Alcatraz and explores the Palace of Fine Arts, Golden Gate Bridge, Land’s End and Twin Peaks.

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Popular Combo
Cruise boat in front of alcatraz island

Escape from the Rock Cruise Around Alcatraz Island

  • 1.5 Hours
  • 47+

On this Alcatraz Island tour, hear chilling tales of Alcatraz escape attempts and unscripted accounts of life on The Rock.

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FAQs

What makes Alcatraz such a popular tourist destination?

Alcatraz Island is a popular tourist destination due to its history as a maximum-security prison and its scenic location on the San Francisco Bay. Guided Alcatraz tours in San Francisco allow visitors to walk through the cell blocks where notorious inmates like Al Capone, George “Machine Gun” Kelly, and the Birdman were once residents.

An infamous escape attempt in 1962 and the popular film The Rock have kept the mystery of Alcatraz Island alive. Plus, stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Angel Island on the cruise to Alcatraz make it the highlight of any city tour.

Is the tour of Alcatraz appropriate for children?

The Alcatraz tour is generally appropriate for children, but parents should be aware that the history of Alcatraz involves imagery of harsh conditions that sensitive children may find disturbing. Concerned parents may want to discuss the historical significance of Alcatraz as a learning experience, or focus on the natural beauty of the island.

Also, the terrain on Alcatraz Island is steep, so families with young children or strollers should be cautious and wear sturdy shoes. While tickets for the Alcatraz day tour are available for children of any age, children must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring on tours of Alcatraz?

Bring a jacket to protect against wind and moisture, since the ferry ride to Alcatraz can be chilly, especially in foggy conditions. Bring water and snacks since there are no food services on the island. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the island has steep and uneven terrain. Bring a government-issued photo ID to board the ferry.

Are there any prohibited items on tours of Alcatraz?

Large bags, coolers, alcohol, drones, and firearms are prohibited on Alcatraz Island. Photography is allowed, but tripods are restricted.

Is there any way to access Alcatraz island besides a ferry or boat?

The only way to access Alcatraz Island is by ferry. Since it’s located in the middle of San Francisco Bay, there’s no way to get to the island other than by boat.

Visitors must purchase a ticket for the ferry, which runs from Fisherman’s Wharf Pier 33 to the Alcatraz Landing. Tickets for popular days and times can sell out far in advance, so plan to get yours early. Be wary of scams promising last-minute or discount tickets, and only buy from Alcatraz City Cruises or an authorized operator like Extranomical.