alcatraz island guided tour

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Last updated: April 27, 2021

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Alcatraz Island Golden Gate National Recreation Area 201 Fort Mason San Francisco, CA 94123

415-561-4900 United States Park Police Dispatch: Non-Emergency: 415-561-5505 Emergency: 415-561-5656

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Alcatraz Tours and guided experiences

Alcatraz tour reviews from happy travelers

Guide spotlight, latest alcatraz stories.

The 7 Best Alcatraz Tours [2024 Reviews]

Alcatraz, the notorious prison situated on an island in San Francisco Bay , is a must-see for Bay Area visitors. Tour operators offer visitors unique experiences by combining a visit to Alcatraz with additional outings.

Each of these tours includes the self-guided audio tour offered by the National Park Service, plus the addition of an exclusive adventure.

Adding extra excitement to your Alcatraz trip isn’t just fun. There’s another benefit – accessibility. Tickets to Alcatraz are in high demand, and waiting until the last minute to reserve may leave you in the lurch.

If you find yourself in this situation, booking a combo tour will ensure you get to see this legendary icon of American History and have some extra fun in the process.

Best Guided Tours of Alcatraz

Be sure to see our reviews of wine tours to Napa & Sonoma Valley . Yosemite Tours and Muir Woods tours .

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Rated Alcatraz Tours For 2024

• Best Budget Tour: Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Bay Boat Cruise
• Best Small Group Tour: San Francisco Small Group City Sightseeing and Alcatraz Tour
• Best Full Day Tour: Alcatraz Tour plus Muir Woods and Sausalito Day Trip
• Best Half-Day Tour: Alcatraz with San Francisco Bay Cruise
• Best Combination Tour: Big Bus San Francisco Hop-On-Hop-Off Open Top Tour and Alcatraz
• Best Alcatraz & Bridge Tour: Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Express Visit
• Best Bike & Alcatraz Tour: Alcatraz Island Tour Packages

We have reviewed the 7 top guided tours of Alcatraz, providing overviews and highlighting the details of each.

Alcatraz Tour Reviews

1. best budget tour: alcatraz inside and golden gate bridge bay boat cruise.

• Departure Point : Alcatraz Landing, Pier 33
• Departure Time : 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Duration : 3 hours (approx.)
• Includes : Alcatraz Island Cellhouse Admission, Alcatraz Audio Tour, Golden Gate Bridge Bay Cruise

We recommend this tour for someone who is looking looking to take in two of San Francisco’s attractions: Alcatraz and a cruise of the bay.

The first part of the tour starts with the ferry ride to Alcatraz where departs from Pier 33. Enjoy the views and listen to the captain tell you about the history of the infamous Alcatraz island, or “The Rock” as it was called when it was a prison.

The intriguing audio tour of Alcatraz runs approximately 2.5 hours and goes into detail about some of its most notorious inmates and their crafty attempts to escape the well-guarded penitentiary.

Next up is the bay cruise where you will go under the Golden Gate Bridge, see the Transamerica Pyramid from the bay, Treasure Island, Coit Tower, Angel Island, and the Sausalito waterfront.

See the sea lions on sunning themselves on the rocks, pelicans flying overhead and if you are lucky you may even see whales in the bay! The onboard guide will give you the history of all the landmarks and of the city.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best small group tour: san francisco small group city sightseeing and alcatraz tour.

• Departure Point : Hotel pickup offered / Alcatraz Landing, Pier 33
• Departure Time : 9:30 AM
• Duration : 7 hours
• Includes : Round-trip ferry from San Francisco to Alcatraz Island, audio walking tour of Alcatraz, Sightseeing tour of San Francisco in an open-air Jeep

We recommend this tour for those who want to make the most of their day. You won’t waste your time figuring out what’s worth visiting; and you won’t have to deal with public transport or fighting for a parking space because this tour offers hotel pick-up and drop-off.

This outing is limited to a maximum of 10 people, so if you enjoy individualized attention, this is definitely a tour to consider.

This tour is great for adults and kids alike. The guides are skilled at adapting their tour to captivate and inform everyone in the group.

If you’re the adventurous type who’s interested in getting the inside scoop on all things San Francisco, as well as touring Alcatraz, this tour will definitely exceed your expectations.

The initial leg of this tour begins with a 4-hour tour of San Francisco in an open air jeep- safari style. You’ll be sure to enjoy all the must-see areas like the Golden Gate Bridge and Twin Peaks.

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During the jeep portion of the tour you’ll have plenty of opportunity to ask your driver/guide about insider tips for restaurants and entertainment.

This safari-styled urban tour of will keep you entertained while your guide shares wacky facts about the area, driving you through quirky neighborhoods, and taking you off-the-beaten path into areas only the locals know about.

During your city tour, you’ll stop for lunch (not included in price of tour) at a locals-approved locale, such as Gus’ Market.

After finishing the city portion of your tour, you’ll be dropped off at Pier 33 where the 15-minute ferry ride will deliver you to Alcatraz Island. Before starting your 2.5 hour audio tour of Alcatraz, you’ll be given a brief history of the Island.

When you finish the Alcatraz tour, you’ll take the ferry back to Pier 33 where the jeep will pick you up for a convenient hotel-drop off.

3. Best Full Day Tour: Alcatraz Tour plus Muir Woods and Sausalito Day Trip

• Departure Point : 478 Post St or 2805 Leavenworth Ave.
• Departure Time : 8:00 AM
• Includes : Transport by luxury air-conditioned coach & Professional Tour Guide, admission to Muir Woods, round-trip ferry from San Francisco to Alcatraz Island, audio walking tour of Alcatraz

We recommend this tour for those who are short on time but want to see as much as possible during their stay in the Bay area. It’s also a good choice for those who don’t mind larger groups.

The Muir Woods/Sausalito leg of your tour will include transport by coach (free wifi and restroom on board).

Make the most of your day by consolidating three different experiences into one day. Tour Alcatraz, see the spectacular redwoods of Muir Woods, and make a stop to explore the picturesque town of Sausalito.

The three legs of this tour can make for a long day, so if time isn’t a consideration during your stay, consider breaking this into a 2 day venture.

Please note, this isn’t a tour in the tradition sense, as you won’t be picked up and dropped off at your hotel by a guide, or in between the ferry and bus. It involves more DIY action than most.

This excursion starts with your arrival at the ferry to Alcatraz. After enjoying the audio tour there, you will then make your way to Gray Line Buses at Union Square for departure to Muir Woods and Sausalito.

When you return to San Francisco you will arrange your own transport back to your lodging/hotel.

4. Best Half-Day Tour: Alcatraz with San Francisco Bay Cruise

• Departure Time : Variety available
• Duration : 2 to 4 hours (approx.)
• Includes : One Day Hop-on Hop-off Ticket, round-trip ferry to Alcatraz Island, audio tour on Alcatraz Island, 60-minute San Francisco Bay Cruise

This tour is geared more for families with younger children as if they are 4 and younger they go for free!.You need to check in 30 minutes before departure so use this time to wander the waterfront and explore the shops.

You have three start options available of 9am, 10am or 2pm offering you lots of flexibility. The ferry ride to Alcatraz gives you some good views of the bay and the captain will give you some background on the former prison.

Once on Alcatraz you’ll enjoy the self-guided audio tour that you can do at your own pace. The audio guide will give you all the background of the notorious prisoners and their escape attempts. You have seen it in the movies but there is nothing like being there and seeing it for yourself and standing in the prison cells!

Next up is the bay cruise. Once on the ship, you’ll cruise under the Golden Gate Bridge, which offers amazing angles for unique pictures. You will cruise past historic pier 39 and see the sea lions sunbathing. Take pictures of San Francisco’s iconic skyline from the bay.

The ship has a guide that will give you all the history and background the landmarks as you sail by them making this an informative as well as beautiful cruise of the bay .

5. Best Combination Tour: Big Bus San Francisco Hop-On-Hop-Off Open Top Tour and Alcatraz

• Departure Point : Start anywhere on bus route
• Departure Time : Anytime
• Duration : All day
• Includes : Hop on – hop off bus, ferry from San Francisco to Alcatraz Island, audio walking tour of Alcatraz

We recommend this tour for adults and families alike, and for those who feel comfortable touring with a larger group of fellow visitors.

Participants explore the city in an open-air bus, allowing for better views of the sites. Enjoy being a very important person during this full-day tour. Beat the crowds with an early entry to Alcatraz and enjoy the prison and its surroundings, minus the commotion that can come with hordes of tourists

During your early-entry tour of Alcatraz you will wander around the legendary prison and its grounds with an audio tour that gives great detail about his history and some of its most infamous inmates.

After you wrap up the Alcatraz portion of this tour, you’ll head back on the big bus and sit comfortably while you make your way through the windy streets of the city.

The animated tour guides are well-versed in the offbeat details and history of the area, and they really seem to enjoy sharing this knowledge with visitors. They make sure to tailor your experience to the group, including kids, if you’ve got your little ones along for the ride.

There is an array of options for touring Alcatraz, lots of them offering combinations with other fun activities. These combinations offer the opportunity to spend time with a local tour guide who can give insider tips and share interesting information about the area.

6. Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Express Visit

• Duration : 3 hours
• Departure Time : Varies
• Departure : 250 Beach St., San Francisco, CA 94133
• Includes : Alcatraz ticket, ferry ride to island, roundtrip Fisherman’s Wharf mini bus seat, Golden Gate Bridge stop for photos (SF side only)

San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities on the planet, and to fully take advantage of its splendor, I highly recommend this next tour. Alcatraz may not be all glitz and glamor, but it plays a significant role in the history of the city.

The Alcatraz Inside and Golden Gate Bridge Express Visit Tour is a great way to get acquainted with the city and see two of the most important landmarks in a way most don’t get to experience.

Clocking in at 3 hours and with various start times, it’s easy to fit into even the busiest of schedule. It departs right from Fisherman’s Wharf which is already a big tourist spot, so it’s easy to access as well.

Set off on the included ferry ride as you make your way to Alcatraz Island, surrounded by both manmade and natural beauty.

Upon arrival, you’ll be instantly transported back in time and get a glimpse into how prisoners were treated. Some very notorious people were locked up here, including famous mafioso, Al Capone, and you’ll learn all about him and more during the 45-minute audio presentation of the cellhouse tour.

After that, you’ll head back to Fisherman’s Wharf and board a mini bus as you make your way to the impressive Golden Gate Bridge. I was actually shocked at how big it was, and seeing it on our way to Alcatraz made me realize just how enormous it really is!

We were allowed a 30-minute stop at Vista Point where we were able to take plenty of videos, which ended up being fantastic mementos.

Oh, and we even got to see the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre, which was just as impressive as the other sites we saw that day! It looks like something from ancient Rome, and it was very interesting to learn that it was built in just a couple years!

7. Alcatraz Island Tour Packages

• Duration : 2 to 3 hours
• Departure : 571 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94102
• Includes : Official Alcatraz ticket, ferry ride to the island, audio tour of the Alcatraz Island inside the prison, bike rental for 24 hours (includes helmets and locks)

If you ask me, two of the best ways to see San Francisco are by two modes of transportation: the ferry and by bike. The Alcatraz Island Tour Packages experience combines both of them, leaving you with all-new insight into this magical city filled with history and mind-blowing architecture!

They even include the natural beauty surrounding the bay, offering expert guidance to further enhance your time spent exploring!

I absolutely loved how lively and entertaining the guides were, right from the very beginning! Our tour started with a guided bus tour over the Golden Gate Bridge, which was so impressive to me!

Learning about the history of the massive structure and the events that have taken place on and around it was fascinating.

Our first stop was at the Muir Woods National Monument, which had quite possibly even larger structures than the bridge! To call the Redwood trees “towering” doesn’t even do them justice – you just have to see them in person to believe it!

The average age of these beauties are anywhere from 600 to 800 years old, with the oldest reaching over a whopping thousand years old!

After taking photos of the trees and the stunning city skyline, we then headed out to the island of Alcatraz by ferry. This was a really fun trip, and we were grateful to have been able to secure tickets as I know it’s common for them to be sold out!

We got to really see a lot of the island and learned even more, thanks to the intriguing 3-hour audio tour!

After that, we headed back to the mainland where we were informed we had access to a free 24-hour bike rental to explore the city even further. Just be aware of the intense hills – my quads were definitely burning after!

Tour Guides

The San Francisco Helicopter and Alcatraz Tour is our Editor's Choice as the best Alcatraz tour with its combination of sites seen, tour guides and value.

Krysha Thayer

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Alcatraz Day Tour

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Guided Alcatraz and San Francisco City Tour

Combine the official Alcatraz tour and a fully guided city tour for a day of San Francisco highlights

This full-day tour breaks you into Alcatraz Island prison and features guided entertainment and stops to explore Golden Gate Bridge, Palace of Fine Arts, Land’s End and Twin Peaks.

• See San Francisco’s top attractions like the Haight-Ashbury, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Castro
• Make stops to photograph and experience the Palace of Fine Arts, Golden Gate Bridge, Land’s End, and Twin Peaks.
• Ferry to Alcatraz Island for the famous Official Alcatraz Tour
• Hear guided tour narration in your own language
• Begin with a pickup from two major San Francisco hotels
• Free cancellation for Alcatraz tickets with a 5-day notice

What’s Included

• Pick up at two San Francisco locations
• Local expert guide commentary in English
• Foreign language audios for the San Francisco City Tour available (specify at checkout)
• Ferry to Alcatraz and Official Alcatraz tour

What’s Not Included

• Meals or beverages
• Tour guide gratuity

Description

Ride in comfort before you float the bay as you tour the city’s top attractions, on this   Alcatraz and San Francisco City Tour . Our city insider guide goes way beyond a “hop-on, hop-off” experience to deliver a fully-narrated San Francisco sightseeing adventure. Your comprehensive 4-hour morning San Francisco bus tour ends in style with a ferry ride to and tour of the (in)famous Alcatraz Island in the afternoon.

Morning: Bus City Tour

Stop #1 – palace of fine arts.

After a morning pickup at one of two convenient San Francisco locations, your city tour will begin on San Francisco’s waterfront in the popular Fisherman’s Wharf before rolling through the Marina District on your way to your first stop. At the lovely and instagrammable  Palace of Fine Arts , you will have the chance to stop and photograph the historic building, grounds, and stunningly beautiful lagoon.

Stop #2 – Golden Gate Bridge

Continue to the most iconic stop at the Golden Gate Bridge . Spend 10-15 minutes at a perfect vista point taking photos and creating memories.

Stop #3 – Land’s End Overlook

The next stop on your San Francisco City Highlights tour will be the historic Land’s End where you can stretch your legs while overlooking Sutro Baths and the Pacific Ocean coastline. Later, you will be blown away by the beauty of Golden Gate Park as you ride past Dutch windmills, Queen Wilhelmina’s tulip garden, the bison paddock, and old redwood and eucalyptus groves. Next, we’ll take you through the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, where you can see some of San Francisco’s famous Victorian homes, known for their iconic architecture.

Stop #4 – Twin Peaks

Fog-permitting, the next stop on this tour gives you a birds-eye-view of the whole Bay Area from atop Twin Peaks. Here, you’ll get an amazing panoramic view of the Golden Gate Bridge, Mount Tamalpais, Mount Diablo, the whole Bay and more from the viewpoint sitting 1,000 feet above sea level. To say it’s breathtaking would be an understatement!

Afternoon: Sail to Alcatraz Island for the Famous Prison Tour Official

Grab some lunch in Fisherman’s Wharf , then make your way to Pier 33 to board your ferry for the Alcatraz Island Prison Tour. The 15-minute sail has incredible views of the city skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, San Francisco Bay and Angel Island   — have your camera ready!

On arrival to Alcatraz Island, pick up the Cellhouse Audio Tour included with the purchase of this San Francisco and Alcatraz tour package. Hear the voices of prisoners and guards describing their experiences at Alcatraz in English, Spanish, Japanese, French, Italian, German, Dutch or Mandarin.

After touring on Alcatraz Island to your heart’s content, take one of the returning ferries back to Pier 33. If you’ve worked up an appetite or thirst, there are plenty of Fisherman’s Wharf options before making your own way back to your hotel.

Things to Know About this Tour:

You must bring a government-issued photo ID to board the Alcatraz Ferry

Children under the age of 8 must have an appropriate child seat for the San Francisco bus tour.

08:30 AM to 10:00 AM - Pick up, Palace of Fine Arts

• Pickup at one of two convenient San Francisco locations in either Union Square or Fisherman’s Wharf
• Drive through the Marina district while enjoying the views of Alcatraz Island
• Stop and explore the picturesque Palace of Fine Arts (15 minutes)

10:00 AM to 11:00 AM - Golden Gate Bridge and Land’s End

• Stop at a spectacular vista for photos of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge
• Stop at Land’s End for the Pacific Ocean coastline views
• Enjoy panoramic views of Sutro Baths and the Cliff House

11:00 AM to 12:00 PM - Golden Gate Park and Twin Peaks

• Drive through Golden Gate Park with its many gardens and museums
• Drive through San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury with it’s Victorian architecture
• Stop at Twin Peaks overlook and enjoy the 360 degree views of the whole Bay

12:00 PM to 1:00 PM - Mission District, Fisherman's Wharf

• Drive by Misión San Francisco de Asís in the vibrant Mission District
• Ride through the Civic Center
• Return to your pickup point

2:00 PM to 4:30 PM Enjoy the Infamous Alcatraz Prison Tour

• Board your ferry for the Alcatraz Island tour at Pier 33
• Enjoy the “The Alcatraz Cellhouse Audio Tour” (foreign languages available)
• Free time to explore Alcatraz Island; take a return ferry to Pier 33

Times listed are approximations. Traffic and unforeseen events can cause delays

What Our Guests Are Saying About Us

Authentic guide.

Our guide was very knowledgeable, enthusiastic, approachable, and thorough. She also adapted well to detours and other unplanned obstacles.

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Nathan M, TrustPilot

All in all, we felt the price justified the experience and recommend Extranomical to future visitors to San Francisco. Our guide was very knowledgeable, enthusiastic, approachable, and thorough. She also adapted well to detours and other unplanned obstacles. She even handled well an interruption by a participant who took a mobile phone call. Moreover, she was authentic and really cared that her guests would have a quality experience.

Everything we expected!

Our guide Don was excellent. Loved his laid back California vibe. We had a pretty thorough tour of the city, with great commentary. The coach was comfortable & sheltered us from the chill.

Leenora B Broussard, GetYourGuide

Our guide Don was excellent. Loved his laid back California vibe. We had a pretty thorough tour of the city, with great commentary. The coach was comfortable & sheltered us from the chill. By the afternoon, Alcatraz was everything we expected & the boat ride was gorgeous.

Amazing tour!

SF tour and stops at key areas . Alcatraz good and able to stay as long as you want so no pressure!

Jane Corser, GetYourGuide

Awesome tour!

Joseph was our tour guide and Archie was our driver and they made a great team with their combined knowledge from growing up in the area.

Lindsey Feld, GetYourGuide

We did this tour on the first full day we were in San Francisco and we felt it was a great introduction to the city! Joseph was our tour guide and Archie was our driver and they made a great team with their combined knowledge from growing up in the area. Alcatraz was awesome and we were lucky enough to experience it during fleet week with the Blue Angels flying above us. Highly recommended activity!

Excellent experience

Both the city bus tour and Alcatraz Island experiences were excellent, with a very experienced and well understood morning tour guide.

Ralph L Lewis, GetYourGuide

Both the city bus tour and Alcatraz Island experiences were excellent, with a very experienced and well understood morning tour guide. Unfortunately, coordination between Extranomical and the Guided City Tour people was not as seamless as it should have been. When we arrived in the morning, the on site coordinator didn't have us listed for the afternoon tour and I had to make a last minute phone call to Extranomical to be apprised of the afternoon check-in details.

Very Exceptional!

Tour guide Kimmy collected us on time from our Hotel and proceeded to give us a wonderful insight and tour of San Francisco in her mini bus - 12 people in total and very covid safe

Suzanne Fitzgerald, TrustPilot

Tour guide Kimmy collected us on time from our Hotel and proceeded to give us a wonderful insight and tour of San Francisco in her mini bus - 12 people in total and very covid safe (masks mandatory) - we covered so much area and learnt so much about each area... history, movie sets and famous people, restaurants to visit, etc - I now feel very wise about SF! We had two stops along the way and even did a trip along the Golden Gate Bridge. Amazing photo's from this vantage point (a whale even made an appearance in the bay on queue). Kimmy's knowledge (being a local) is exceptional! We were then dropped off at the Pier to head off on the Alcatraz tour with plenty of time to buy lunch. Was a really interesting and informative day. (For lunch, if you are not into the hamburgers and fried fish available along the wharf area - cross the road from the pier to a really lovely cafe - beautiful indoors/outdoors, food and bathrooms). The visit to Alcatraz is a must - very sobering indeed and definitely a 'must do' when in San Francisco. It is a really good idea to research the 'Escape from Alcatraz' story before you go as this will really give you a better understanding of the prison and day-to-day life. When you arrive on Alcatraz - go to the top where the prison is actually located and where you are able to pick up (free) an audio machine to take you on a personal tour. Excellent tour - highly recommend to all visitors to SF - run by a very professional company.

Very enjoyable

Went on the full day tour of San Francisco and Alcatraz. It was very enjoyable. Bus driver Jack was super friendly and Michelle our tour guide was very knowledgeable about San Francisco.

Ingrid Bennett, TrustPilot

Went on the full day tour of San Francisco and Alcatraz. It was very enjoyable. Bus driver Jack was super friendly and Michelle our tour guide was very knowledgeable about San Francisco. Took us to a lot of sights and different areas of the city.

A must tour!

The Alcatraz/City tour was good. Our guide showed us all the major sites & explained them well. Alcatraz is a must & the tour made it as easy as possible.

Kerry Dubbert , TrustPilot

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Award-winning tours & customer service, money back guarantee, 2000+ 5-star reviews, what will we see during the city tour.

Easily the most comprehensive city tour of San Francisco, including visits to: Marina District, Palace of Fine Arts, Golden Gate Park, Haight-Ashbury, Fisherman’s Wharf, Land’s End, Castro District, Union Square, Twin Peaks and, of course — the Golden Gate Bridge!

Is the Alcatraz portion of the tour guided?

All tours of Alcatraz are operated by the National Park Service. While rangers are available for questions, the primary content of the tour is delivered through an audio guide available in English, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish languages.

What should I wear?

San Francisco can be chilly in the morning so it’s best to dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes or sandals.

Do I need to bring my ID?

You must present valid government-issued photo identification to pick up your tickets at Alcatraz Pier 33. A photocopy of a passport suffices as valid photo identification.

What should I bring?

Besides your valid government-issued ID, bring a light water-resistant jacket, camera or phone, water bottle, hat, sunscreen, umbrella (if the forecast calls for rain), and a credit card or cash for purchasing souvenirs or snacks.

How much time will I have on Alcatraz island?

The amount of time you can stay on Alcatraz Island is up to you. Return ferries to San Francisco leave the island about every 20 minutes. Most guests find that 2 hours is sufficient time to do the complete prison tour. The ferry between Alcatraz Island and San Francisco takes about 15 minutes.

Is Alcatraz accessible for those with disabilities?

Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing is fully accessible. Many areas on Alcatraz Island are also accessible with the use of the S.E.A.T. (Sustainable Easy Access Transport) Tram.

Why not purchase Alcatraz and a city tour separately?

First, the combo tour makes for an easy, seamless day in which we pick you up near your hotel and deliver you to Pier 33 to catch the ferry to Alcatraz. Also, our contract with the National Park Service allows us access to Alcatraz tickets only when they are part of a tour package.

Are meals included? Can I buy or bring my own?

Meals are not included on this tour. There are multiple food options available in Fisherman’s Wharf where you can purchase lunch or snacks. Please note that food is not permitted on Alcatraz Island.

Do I need to be at Pier 33 - Alcatraz Landing before my departure?

We will manage the day so that you are at Pier 33 one half-hour prior to your departure time to check in. You must present valid government-issued photo identification at the will call booth to collect your Alcatraz tickets.

What is the Alcatraz and San Francisco City Cancellation Policy?

How do i collect my alcatraz tickets.

When you arrive at Pier 33, there is a separate “Will Call” line for visitors to pick up prepaid tickets. Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your departure time to check in. You must present a valid government-issued photo ID or passport.

Are there dining options on Alcatraz Island?

There are no dining options on the Island. Guests may bring bottled water to drink. Please plan accordingly and enjoy your lunch after the City Tour and before your Alcatraz experience.

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Alcatraz Island and the Alcatraz Tour

Alcatraz Tour Fascinates Visitors to Alcatraz Island

Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

It's a former federal prison on a rocky island in the middle of the bay, steeped in legend and a popular tourist stop.

Spanish Explorer Manuel de Ayala named this barren rock in the middle of San Francisco Bay Isla de los Alcatraces (Island of the Pelicans). The island called Alcatraz has been used as a Civil War fort, a Federal prison and a symbol of Native American plight. Today, the National Park Service runs Alcatraz Island as a tourist attraction.

Things to Do on Alcatraz

You can get a look at what you'll see on the Alcatraz tour by visiting the Alcatraz slideshow.

The National Park Service schedules activities to help you learn about Alcatraz Island, including lectures and special tours. The schedule board at the ferry landing gives the times. The only guided tour is the audio tour, but you can also pick up a self-guided tour book near the boat dock.

Barracks from Alcatraz Island's stint as a military base, the cell house, lighthouse, and a few others remain. Many of the Alcatraz Island prison buildings are gone. Some burned during the American Indian Alcatraz occupation in the 1960s. The guard's residences, deteriorated beyond repair, were torn down in the 1970s. 

If the hospital area is open during your visit, don't miss it. It's a fascinating look at medical care during the prison's heyday.

To see two San Francisco Bay islands in one day, take the Alcatraz & Angel Island Tour which will also take you to Angel Island .

Alcatraz Island Tickets

The only way to tour Alcatraz is with the company called Alcatraz Cruises, leaving from San Francisco. Other bay cruise companies can take you by, but can't stop.  Find all the details and buy tickets at the Alcatraz Cruises website . Anyone else selling an Alcatraz Island tour is re-selling tickets and may charge a processing fee.

Alcatraz tour tickets sell out fast. The official brochures say tickets sell out as early as a week in advance in the summer and on holiday weekends. When checked on a July Friday, they were sold out until the following Tuesday. 

Tickets not used by hotels are released to the Alcatraz ticket booth just before it opens. Be first in line you may get a same-day tour ticket. Your hotel's concierge or front desk may have tickets. Or consider taking the Alcatraz and Angel Island tour, which doesn't fill up as fast.

The boat ride to Alcatraz takes about 15 minutes each way from San Francisco. Your tour can last as long as you like (or until the last boat leaves).

The Day Tour is the most popular. It includes round-trip transportation to the island and the audio tour.

The Night Tour includes extra activities — and is slightly more expensive. Taking it allows more time to visit other sights that close earlier, maximizing your sightseeing time. The only downside is that a few areas that are open during the day close after dark.

Get Ready to Visit Alcatraz

Most visitors spend at least a few hours on Alcatraz. Snacks and water are essential to keep everyone from getting "hangry" or thirsty.

If you don't know much about Alcatraz, stop to see the 17-minute introductory video before you go up the hill. You can also read up on these interesting facts about Alcatraz before you go and  explore the fascinating history of the Alcatraz lighthouse .

Watch the Clint Eastwood movie "Escape from Alcatraz" for a glimpse of how the prison operated during its busiest period.

Tips for Visiting Alcatraz

Pick up an audio tour and use it. You'll get a lot more out of what you're seeing. Pay attention to the audio directions. Otherwise, you could end up gabbing away with your friends and not able to figure out where you should be going. If that happens, ask a ranger or tour guide for help.

If you miss your boat, don't despair. The ticket office can direct you to the standby line for the next one.

To see Alcatraz, you'll walk — a lot. It's easy enough if you're in reasonably good shape. They offer a tram to get you up the hill, but you still have to walk after you get there. 

The boats are quiet, clean and smooth riding. The trip is short. But if you need a Dramamine just to sit on the dock and watch a boat bobbing up and down, take your favorite remedy. 

Those white spots all over the island aren't paint. Rangers say several people a day acquire a "white badge of honor" as a gift from a seagull. DON'T look up if you hear birds. Also, watch where you put your hands to avoid touching those same white splotches of yucky stuff.

The gift shop has some very stylish and clever souvenir items. They also sell the book "Hollywood Alcatraz" which details all the films made at Alcatraz and where their scenes were filmed.

Alcatraz Tour Review

In a poll, more than 2,000 Tripsavvy readers rated Alcatraz, 48% rated it awesome and 10% great. However, 26% gave it the lowest rating.

Alcatraz is likely to bore children under the age of five and is more fun for kids who are old enough to understand what it is.

On the plus side, the views of San Francisco and the bay are eye-popping. History buffs enjoy Alcatraz. So does anyone who's seen the movies about it and feel like it's a must-see. The audio tour is one of the best anywhere, using voices of actual guards and prisoners to tell the prison's story.

On the downside, it takes almost half a day to go there and back. If your trip to San Francisco is short, that may be more time than you want to spend on one activity. And it smells like bird poop during spring seagull nesting season.

Getting to Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island San Francisco, CA National Park Website

Alcatraz Cruises leave from Pier 33. If you've been to San Francisco before, be aware that the ticket booth and departure dock moved several years ago.

To drive, follow signs for Pier 39. Pier 33 is a few blocks east. You can find more than a dozen commercial parking lots within a five-block radius. Street parking isn't practical because the meters have a two-hour limit and you'll be gone longer than that.

If you're staying in San Francisco, take a taxi, use a ride-sharing service or public transit. Muni's F Line runs past Pier 33 and the Powell-Mason cable car stops nearby. Find more ways to get around San Francisco .

Related Articles

More related articles.

• Alcatraz Day Tour

Alcatraz Night Tour

• Bay Discovery Cruise
• Alcatraz Behind The Scenes Tour
• Book Your Tour Now!
• About Alcatraz
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• Alcatraz History
• Alcatraz Ferry Schedule
• Before You Visit
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The Complete Alcatraz Tour

Duration: Approximately 2 ½ Hours Available: Tuesday thru Saturday. 5:55 PM, 6:30 PM and 7:05 PM check-in thru Nov 2. Nov 3 thru March 2025: 3:50 PM and 4:45 PM check-in.

• E-Ticket Mobile Check-in
• Alcatraz Island roundtrip ferry
• Access Inside Alcatraz Prison
• 45-minute Cellhouse Audio Tour
• Orientation video
• Ranger and docent tours
• Onboard narration
• Guided tour
• Other special activities

The Alcatraz Night Tour provides an engaging evening Alcatraz experience with special programs. This tour includes a personally narrated boat tour around the island; guided tours from the dock to the main prison building; "Doing Time: The Alcatraz Cellhouse Tour". Also, several programs and presentations are offered only at night. Visitors may choose to attend one or two during the course of their evening. Enjoy a sunset and breath-taking views of San Francisco as night falls. A truly exceptional experience.

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Alcatraz Tours

Alcatraz Tours and Tickets

Uncover the intriguing Secrets of the infamous Alcatraz Island and its notorious Inmates! 

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Alcatraz Island Ticket, Ferry & 2 Day Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Bus

• Alcatraz Island/Ferry Ticket
• Audio Guide
• 2 Day Hop on/off Bus Pass
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Panoramic cruise around alcatraz island & golden gate bridge.

• Boat Tour of Golden Gate Bay
• Multi-Language Audio Guide
• Purchase Items from Onboard Bar

Alcatraz Island Ticket & Ferry and National Park Tour with Luxury Van

• National Park Tour
• Transfers Included

Combo: San Francisco Bus Tour & Alcatraz Tour with Ticket, Ferry & Audio Guide 

• Guided Tour
• Round Trip Ferry

Small Group Tour: San Francisco, Muir Woods, Sausalito with OPTIONAL Alcatraz Tour

• Alcatraz Option

Discover the vibrant city of San Francisco in style and savings with our exclusive 2-day combo package. Immerse yourself in the rich history, iconic landmarks, and unique culture of the Bay Area with a carefully curated itinerary that includes a variety of experiences. From exploring the enigmatic Alcatraz Island to leisurely strolls through historic Chinatown, this package ensures you make the most of your visit. Plus, you get to choose a bonus between a bike rental to explore at your own pace or a visit to the USS Pampanito, a fascinating submarine museum.

Departs From: Redeem your voucher at 99 Jefferson Street in Fisherman’s Wharf 24-48 hours before your Alcatraz Cruise to secure your date and receive your hop-on-hop-off pass.

Starting Time: The date you select when booking is your Alcatraz Cruise date. When you redeem your voucher 24-48 hours before your cruise, you’ll receive details about the exact departure time.

Duration: 1-hour guided walking tour. 2 Day Big Bus hop-on-hop-off pass.

Next Available: Today

Experience the beauty and history of San Francisco from a unique perspective on our one-hour Golden Gate Bay Boat Tour. Launched in 1939 during the Golden Gate International Exposition, this iconic cruise has been a must-do for visitors to the city for over 75 years.

Departs From: Meet at the Red and White Fleet Box Office, located at Pier 43 1/2 in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf at the corner of Taylor Street and Embarcadero.

Starting Time: 11:00 AM 1:00 PM 3:00 PM 4:20 PM 5:30 PM Duration: 1 hour

Experience the best of the Bay Area with our all-in-one tour package featuring Alcatraz Island, Muir Woods, and Sausalito. Leave the logistics to us as you travel comfortably in a luxury tour van, complete with a memorable Golden Gate Bridge crossing, so you can fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery. Your Alcatraz admission includes the ferry ride and an engaging audio tour, and for those who prefer a self-guided adventure, there’s ample free time to explore both Muir Woods and the charming town of Sausalito.

Departs From: The 8:30am option departs from 545 Post Street. It will start with Muir Woods and Sausalito then go to Alcatraz

The 9:10am option departs from Pier 33. It will start with Alcatraz then go to Muir Woods and Sausalito

Starting Time: 8:30 AM & 9:10 AM

Duration: Approx. 7-8 Hours

Experience the best of San Francisco and Alcatraz Island in one unforgettable tour. Board a scenic ferry ride to Alcatraz, where you’ll enjoy an award-winning audio walking tour that brings the island’s history to life. Afterward, embark on a coach tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. Explore the City by the Bay as you visit iconic attractions including Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, the Presidio, and the Palace of Fine Arts.

Departs From: Pier 33San Francisco, CA 94133, USA 

Starting Time: 9:30 AM

Duration: Approx. 6 hours 30 minutes

Discover all of San Francisco’s major attractions in a single day, with a scenic lunch break in Sausalito and a tranquil stroll through Muir Woods. For those who have chosen the Alcatraz option, your afternoon will be highlighted by a ferry ride to Alcatraz Island for the Official Alcatraz Tour.

Departs From: 710 Beach St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA

Duration: Approx. 9 Hours

What is so Special About Alcatraz Island?

Renowned Alcatraz Island, situated off the rugged coast of San Francisco, boasts a legendary history as a prison for some of the most infamous criminals, including Al Capone and the “Birdman of Alcatraz.”

Its infamous legacy as “The Rock” is a captivating chapter in American history, drawing visitors from across the globe t o explore the island’s iconic prison cell s and immerse themselves in the stories and daring escape attempts of these notorious inmates. 

Additionally, visitors can discover various exhibitions and cultural programs that shed light on Mass Incarceration in the US and the Occupation of Alcatraz by the Indians of All Tribes, all while reveling in the awe-inspiring vistas of San Francisco .

Compare Your Tour Options for Alcatraz Island

Duration: 1-hour guided walking tour. 2 Day Big Bus hop-on-hop-off pass

Inclusions:

Prices Starting

Duration: 1 Hour

Duration: 6.5 Hours

Duration: 9 Hours

Duration: 7-8 Hours

Plan Your Alcatraz Tour Ahead of Time

To make the most of your Alcatraz Island experience, it’s essential to plan ahead . There’s a variety of ticket options available, categorized into day and night tours , all of which include the ferry ride and the cellhouse audio tour. We’ve thoughtfully curated a selection of the most popular ones to cater to your preferences. 

Purchasing your tickets in advance is strongly advised , particularly during the summer months and holiday weekends, as they often sell out several weeks ahead. Alcatraz enforces a daily visitor limit , so securing your tickets beforehand ensures you won’t miss this exceptional journey and helps you avoid long ticket queues.

Why Buy Your Alcatraz Tour Online?

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Compare the most popular options and then book your Alcatraz Island ticket online with just a few clicks, right from the comfort of your home. Start planning and eagerly anticipating your adventure today!

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Alcatraz tours are highly sought after. Booking online in advance guarantees your spot on the ferry and your preferred date. Don’t wait until the last minute – secure your tickets now!

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Free Cancellations

Reserve your Alcatraz Island tour online with peace of mind, knowing that you can cancel for free if plans change. Most of our selected ticket options offer the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

History of Alcatraz Island

Originally named “La Isla de los Alcatraces” by the Ohlone people, Alcatraz Island evolved into a 19th-century military fortress.  From 1934 to 1963 , it housed infamous criminals as a federal maximum-security prison, gaining notoriety for daring escape attempts.

In 1969 , Native Americans and activists occupied the island for 19 months, marking a pivotal moment in ’70s Native American activism and leading to its transfer to the Department of the Interior in 1972.

Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986, Alcatraz now thrives as part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. It’s not only home to the Main Cellhourse, but also the Alcatraz Museum and the American Indian Cultural Center , captivating visitors worldwide with its multifaceted history and cultural offerings.

Alcatraz Island Highlights

Prison & Cell Blocks

The crowning experienc e of any Alcatraz visit is stepping inside the former maximum-security prison and exploring the cell blocks a t your own pace. Listen to the award-winning “Cell Block Audio Tour” , included in the ticket. Narrated by former inmates and guards, it offers unique insights into the daily lives of prisoner s and the daring escape attempts that have become legendary.

Alcatraz Lighthouse

Ascend to the historic Alcatraz Lighthouse, a beacon that has guided ships safely through San Francisco Bay for generations. Built in 1854 , it is now one of the island’s key attractions . Not only does the lighthouse offer breathtaking panoramic views of San Francisco bay, the city skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge, but it also a great spot for photos and to appreciate the island’s natural beauty .

The lush green gardens of Alcatraz stand in stark contrast to the island’s tumultuous past as a prison. Cultivated by diverse groups over the years, they were restored by the Garden Conservancy after decades of neglect. You can now enjoy vibrant plant life throughout the island, including  roses, bush daisies, treasure flowers, and geraniums, while appreciating the serene beauty and tranquility .

Plan Your Visit to Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island operates daytime and nighttime tours , with schedules that change according to the season. Nighttime tours are available from Tuesdays to Saturdays.

Opening Hours & Closing Days: Alcatraz Island extends a year-round welcome to visitors, with closures occurring solely on Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Day. 

Ferry Departures: Ferry departures from San Francisco commence at 8:45 am and continue throughout the day, every 30 to 45 minutes. For precise departure times, please refer to your ticket details or check the schedule at the Dock and Cellhouse prior to your visit.

Duration of a visit: Once you are on the island, you can stay as long as you wish. Plan at least 2 to 3 hours for your visit.

>> Check out the best selection of Alcatraz Tours and Tickets here.

Alcatraz Island is accessible by ferry only, which run every 30 to 45 minutes. T he  journey across the San Francisco Bay takes approximately 15-20 minutes, and is included in Alcatraz tours and tickets. The ferries depart from Pier 33 in San Francisco . The exact departure times of the ferry varies from season to season.

The Landing at Pier 33 in San Francisco is fully accessible, complete with limited accessible parking, to ensure all visitors can savor Alcatraz Island to the fullest. For those facing mobility issues , there’s an electric shuttle service that runs bi-hourly, providing transportation from the dock to the cellhouse and vice versa, making Alcatraz’s steep road and 130-foot elevation change manageable for all.

Food options on Alcatraz Island are very limited , offering only bottled water as well as light snacks which can be purchased at the GGNPC bookstores.

Gift Shop: At the Alcatraz Island gift shop, you can find unique souvenirs, ranging from exceptional keepsakes and clothing to books, letters and movies about the inmates.

Restrooms : Alcatraz Island offers a limited number of restroom facilities for the convenience of visitors, conveniently located at the dock and near the top of the island, adjacent to the cellhouse.

Minors : Alcatraz Island does not allow minors under the age of 18 to visit without an adult.

Pets : Pets are not allowed on Alcatraz Island, except for service animals.

Photography :Taking pictures is permitted on Alcatraz Island, including the prison cells. However, tripods and other photographic equipment are not allowed.

Consumption : With the exception of bottled water, eating, drinking, and smoking are only allowed at the island’s dock area.

Safety Precautions: Certain sections of Alcatraz are not open for public visitation due to safety concerns. These restricted areas are clearly delineated with fences or barricades.

No Collecting Allowed: The collection of any items, artifacts, or materials from Alcatraz Island is strictly prohibited.

Wildlife: Alcatraz’s plant and animal life are protected by law. Please refrain from feeding birds on the island to ensure their well-being and preservation.

FAQ – Alcatraz Tours

 Alcatraz Island is accessible by ferry only , and the ferries depart from Pier 33 in San Francisco.

Alcatraz provides both daytime and nighttime tours . Daytime tours are the most popular, while nighttime tours offer a distinctive and somewhat eerie perspective of the island. > Compare the most popular Alcatraz tours here.

The standard visit , encompassing the ferry journey to and from the island and the self-guided audio excursion of the prison, usually lasts 2-3 hours. Visitors may allocate extra time to venture around the island.

Food and drinks are allowed on the ferry to Alcatraz Island, but they must be consumed before disembarking , or on the dock. There are limited food options on the island, so it is advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks.

Pets are not allowed on Alcatraz Island , except for service animals, to protect the island’s delicate environment.

Yes, photography is permitted on the island, including the prison and its vicinity. Nonetheless, tripods and other photographic equipment are not allowed.

Alcatraz Island does not allow minors under the age of 18 to visit without an adult.

 When visiting Alcatraz Island, it is recommended to bring a light jacket or sweater as the weather can be unpredictable . The winter months can be wet, so we suggest that you bring a waterproof coat or attire . Comfortable footwear is essential as much of Alcatraz Island consists of steep, hilly terrain.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 15 Best Alcatraz Tours

15 Best Alcatraz Tours

Once home to some of the most notorious and dangerous criminals in the history of the United States, Alcatraz entices and allures thousands upon thousands of visitors to its shores every year with the myths and legends that still swirl around the old prison cells.

Also known as ‘the Rock’, no one ever succeeded in escaping from the famous prison.

Its image as an unwelcoming and unforgiving place has endured until today and is just one of the reasons why so many people visit the island.

Located in San Francisco Bay, the chilling waters surrounding Alcatraz only made it harder to escape from; even renowned prisoners such as Al Capone and Robert ‘The Birdman’ Stroud had to see out their sentences here.

A fascinating place, Alcatraz is well worth visiting when in San Francisco.

With so many tours on offer, here are the fifteen best Alcatraz tours to help give you an idea of what’s available to you.

1. 72-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour and Alcatraz Ticket

A fantastic option if you’re going to spend a few days in San Francisco, this tour offers a great package deal.

As such, you will get to see a lot of the city as well as visit Alcatraz itself.

Over a 72 hour period, you can hop on and off the bus as many times as you want.

Consequently, you’ll get to see all of the main sights, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, and more.

With three different loops included, each bus is accompanied by a guide who will light up the city for you.

The undoubted highlight is, of course, the trip to Alcatraz, where you’ll get to explore the eerie prison cells and old barber shop that the inmates frequented.

2. San Francisco Helicopter and Alcatraz Tour

A simply unforgettable experience, this whirlwind of a tour will take you up into the skies to see San Francisco and Alcatraz from above; the stunning views will surely live long in the memory.

After the fifteen to twenty-minute helicopter ride, it’s time to take the ferry to Alcatraz Island, where your audio guide will educate you about the fascinating history of the prison and entertain you with hair-raising stories about some of its most famous inmates.

Well worth the price, the views from both the waters and skies are reason enough to choose this package tour.

View Prices & Reviews

3. Alcatraz Ticket with 3-Hour Bicycle Tour at Sunset

One of the most popular tours on offer, this combo deal will not only take you to ‘the Rock,’ but also on a mesmerizing bike journey that you won’t forget any time soon.

While the tour around Alcatraz is special enough, the spectacular views and sunset from the Golden Gate Bridge are absolutely stupendous; watching the lights turn on across San Francisco as dusk falls is breathtaking.

The bicycle tour takes you along the bridge as well as to some of the city’s other waterfront sights, such as Fort Point and the famous piers.

4. San Francisco VIP Segway Tour and Alcatraz Ticket Combo

A very hilly city, what better way to explore San Francisco than by Segway? Accompanied by a trained guide, you’ll experience the city in a whole new light as you whip about town, stopping at such famous locations as North Beach and the San Francisco Waterfront; you’ll even be able to take in the fantastic views from Coit Tower.

From Pier 33, you will catch the ferry to Alcatraz Island.

Here, you’ll be given an audio guide which will explain everything there is to know about the famous prison.

5. San Francisco City Tour with Visit to Alcatraz

A fabulously beautiful city with a wealth of things to see and do, this combo tour will take you around San Francisco’s main sights before you head off to explore the delights of the forbidding Alcatraz.

Perfect for architecture, history and culture lovers, the guided part of the tour delves into various parts of San Francisco’s identity and offers a fascinating look at some of the city’s most impressive buildings and cultural landmarks.

After getting dropped off at Pier 33, it is time to head to Alcatraz and learn about why this renowned prison is so famous.

Very popular with tourists, this tour comes highly recommended and also includes a visit to the Palace of Fine Arts Museum.

6. Half-Day Golden Gate Catamaran Cruise and Alcatraz Visit

A special tour, this combo deal sees you take to the waters of San Francisco Bay before ferrying across to visit Alcatraz Island.

The catamaran cruise is a magical experience and zipping across the waves under the Golden Gate Bridge is exhilarating; you may even see a sea lion here and there.

The 90-minute cruise offers another view of beautiful San Francisco, and after that, it’s time to explore ‘the Rock’. Wandering around the old prison cells is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the award-winning audio guide really brings the place to life.

7. Alcatraz Combo Full-Day Adventure Package

After hearing evocative stories from past inmates and former prison wardens on Alcatraz Island, it’s time to drive around San Francisco in your own little GoCar – a unique two-seater that recounts the stories of the city as you drive about.

A wonderful piece of technology, the GoCar allows you to go about at your ease; you simply have to follow the GPS as it tells you about the history of all the wonderful sights you pass by.

With fantastic views out over the Pacific Ocean and Alcatraz itself, this combo is definitely worth checking out.

8. Alcatraz Ticket and Walking Craft Beer Tour

If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy both the local beer scene and the sights and sounds of Alcatraz, why not try out this special tour? The visit to Alcatraz is fortunately in the morning, so your head will be clear and ready to take in all the information surrounding the prison.

The afternoon is dedicated to beer tasting, as an enthusiastic guide explains San Francisco’s beer history while you stop off in some of the best breweries in town.

9. Alcatraz and Big Bus Premium 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off

One of the most popular combo deals out there, this fantastic tour not only includes an audio-guided tour around Alcatraz but also the chance to see most of San Francisco through the hop-on, hop-off day pass.

Stopping at 21 different locations, you’ll see all the main sights and can also take part in any one of four walking tours around the city.

In addition to this, there is a magical panoramic night tour included which is well worth joining.

10. San Francisco: Alcatraz and Wine Country Combo

If wine is your thing, this is the tour for you.

As California is renowned for its lush vineyards, it is well worth checking out, even if you’re not a wine connoisseur.

With visits to the Sonoma and Napa valleys included in the package, you’ll get to try some of the region’s premium wines and learn about how they’re produced.

In addition to exploring the vineyards, there is a delightful narrated cruise to Alcatraz on offer, which is then followed up by the fantastic ‘Doing Time: The Alcatraz Cellhouse Tour’ once you are on the island.

11. Muir Woods, Sausalito and Alcatraz Adventure

Wandering along the paths that weave their way amidst the towering Redwoods, which are centuries-old, is a humbling experience which nature lovers will absolutely adore.

After having explored the amazing forest, the tour takes you off to Sausalito, a small and scenic Mediterranean-esque town not far from San Francisco.

The day is capped off with a tour around Alcatraz Island and an insight into some of the prison’s most notorious prisoners.

12. San Francisco Grand City Tour with Alcatraz Ticket

Highly rated amongst tourists, exploring San Francisco by bus is much easier than traipsing up and down its many hills.

On the tour, you’ll see all the main highlights, such as Chinatown, Union Square, and Nob Hill.

With knowledgeable guides to help you out, you’ll get a better idea of what San Francisco is all about.

The tour culminates in a visit to Alcatraz Island, where you’re free to wander around to your heart’s content.

13. San Francisco City Tour and Alcatraz Entrance Ticket Combo

There aren’t many better ways to start your day than with a ferry ride from the famous Pier 33 to the iconic Alcatraz Island with such a fascinating past.

After being educated and entertained in equal measure during the audio-guided tour around the prison, it is time to explore the sights in the city on the 3.5-hour bus tour.

With its interesting commentary that helps explain the importance of the landmarks and buildings, you can stop off and marvel at them up close before continuing on your tour.

14. Golden Gate Bridge Bike Tour and Alcatraz Ticket Combo

After having completed your visit to Alcatraz Island and the amazing prison complex, this tour continues in the form of a three-hour bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito, where you can enjoy exploring the picturesque town.

The amazing views of San Francisco are simply sumptuous and worth the price of this tour alone.

15. Alcatraz Tour with Walk-on Walk-off San Francisco Tour Pass

Valid for seven days, this combo deal allows you to take part in eight walking tours around various neighborhoods in San Francisco, each of which offers up a unique look at a particular part of the city’s history.

On one of those days, you can visit Alcatraz and marvel at the stories that former guards and inmates tell about their time on the island.

15 Best Alcatraz Tours:

• 72-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour and Alcatraz Ticket
• San Francisco Helicopter and Alcatraz Tour
• Alcatraz Ticket with 3-Hour Bicycle Tour at Sunset
• San Francisco VIP Segway Tour and Alcatraz Ticket Combo
• San Francisco City Tour with Visit to Alcatraz
• Half-Day Golden Gate Catamaran Cruise and Alcatraz Visit
• Alcatraz Combo Full-Day Adventure Package
• Alcatraz Ticket and Walking Craft Beer Tour
• Alcatraz and Big Bus Premium 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off
• San Francisco: Alcatraz and Wine Country Combo
• Muir Woods, Sausalito and Alcatraz Adventure
• San Francisco Grand City Tour with Alcatraz Ticket
• San Francisco City Tour and Alcatraz Entrance Ticket Combo
• Golden Gate Bridge Bike Tour and Alcatraz Ticket Combo
• Alcatraz Tour with Walk-on Walk-off San Francisco Tour Pass

Alcatraz Tours at Night: The Best Alcatraz Tour

A notorious prison in California’s San Francisco Bay is on everyone’s bucket list and it is one of the top U.S. attractions. Tickets sell out months in advance, especially for its night tour, which feels like a movie set from a 1980s horror flick. Though should you visit Alcatraz with kids?  On a recent West Coast road trip, my teenage kids asked all day when we were  going to Alcatraz . Seriously. It was their favorite national park site of the summer after stopping at most of the national park sites on the West Coast. Read on to discover what it’s like to take an Alcatraz Tours at Night, with or without kids.

Alcatraz At a Glance

The alcatraz tours .

There is only one way on the island of Alcatraz. However, there are lots of scenic cruises that will take you around the island. If you want to tour Alcatraz, make sure you book the right tour for your trip.

There are three types of tours for Alcatraz: the day tour, the night tour and the behind-the-scenes tour.

Alcatraz Day Tour

The day tour is the most common and departs daily from Pier 33. It lasts about 2.5 hours and includes the ferry ride from Alcatraz Island.

Once on the island, an audio tour, available in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Dutch, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Mandarin, will guide you through the different areas of the prison.

Ferries depart at 8:40 a.m. and run until 3:40 p.m., depending on schedule.

Alcatraz Behind the Scenes Tour 

A small group tour of less than 20 people with a one-and-a-half to two-hour guided tour by a Park Ranger. Explore areas that are typically off-limits to Day Tours. This tour also includes an audio tour, and the total experience lasts about four hours. The ferry departs at noon on Thursday to Monday.

Note: Kids under 12 are prohibited from the Alcatraz Behind the Scenes Tour.

Alcatraz Night Tour

The Alcatraz Night Tour offers serval departures. The final tour of the day is the most popular and sells out the quickest.

Stop by the Ranger Station at the dock and pick up a Junior Ranger booklet. Take the tour, finish the booklet and turn it back into the park ranger for a special badge.

Alcatraz Cruises 2024 Tickets

Top things to do in sacramento , should you take the alcatraz tours at night.

A walk through Alcatraz at twilight is creepy and borderline scary.  Seriously, it is dimly lit There’s an original hospital ward and the place is covered in peeling paint. But tweens and teens love to walk the line between scary and creepy so it’s perfect for them.

I have a girl and two boys, and my boys are fascinated by prisons. So, I decided to tour the prison that defines hard-core prison life. I don’t want them to think life behind bars is glamorous or cool.

For younger kids, the subject matter and the location might be too much for kids under 12. The facility itself isn’t stroller-friendly, and the prison interior is dark.

However, it’s not all creepy. The boat ride is a treat, especially if the weather is clear. The views of downtown San Francisco can’t be beaten; they’re really stunning. If you book the evening tour, the ferry ride at sunset is top-notch.

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How did a prison become a national park.

In 1915, Alcatraz was renamed the United States Disciplinary Barracks, Pacific Branch, a military prison. During the Great Depression, Alcatraz transferred from the War Department to the Department of Justice. Soon after, it became a high-profile, maximum-security federal penitentiary.

Home to the worst of the worst, infamous inmates like Al Capone, along with others with nicknames like Creepy, Doc, Machine Gun, and Birdman of Alcatraz, were all incarcerated on The Rock. Inmates that caused problems in other prisons, came to Alcatraz too.

After the prison closed in 1963, Native Americans occupied Alcatraz island in effort to claim it for all tribes. Support dwindled and in 1972, Alcatraz became part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

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Details of alcatraz night tour.

Alcatraz is one of the places you have to visit to understand. Pictures can be haunting, but walking through the cell block as the dabbled light casts a ghostly glow is eerie.

We took the Night Tour to explore Alcatraz during the twilight hours. The audio tour entranced all three of my kids, and we explored the Cell House at our own pace.

A special feature of this tour is the Cell House lockdown. A Park Ranger unlocks then locks all the cell doors on the cell block at once. A must if you take the Night Tour.

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The alcatraz hospital ward.

This tour is especially creepy since the setting sun casts deep shadows throughout the prison. However, the creepiest place in the facility is the original hospital ward.

Opened in 1934, it treated inmates, federal employees, lighthouse employees and the civilians on the island like families of employees. The equipment is in its original condition and shows its age. The Hospital Ward features a surgery room, three wards, a dental and doctor’s offices.

Al Capone and Robert Stroud, aka Birdman, spend a lot of time in the infirmary.

The hospital ward is particularly eery in the evening, and the lighting is limited. It might be too scary for younger kids, so my 9-year-old decided to skip this portion of the tour.

Explore Solvang California

The birds of alcatraz.

The birds came first, though they moved on after humans occupied the island in the 1850s. When the prison closed in 1963, the birds returned to the protected location that lacked natural predators.

The island offers a refuge for over 5,000 birds today. The waterbirds include Pigeon Guillemots, Snowy Egrets, Western Gulls, Black-crowned night herons and Brandt’s Cormorants. Some areas of the island may close to protect nesting birds that will abandon their nest if humans come too close.

Birders, remember your binoculars and grab the brochure, Waterbirds of Alcatraz , at the kiosk after disembarking the ferry.

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The gardens of alcatraz.

The gardens still bloom off the most surprising feature of the former high-security prison. Sprinkled throughout the property, residents planted the gardens in the late 1800s.

The gardens flourished until 1963, when the prison closed, thanks to reclaimed water, greenhouses, and specially trained inmates. Over 230 species of ornamental plants, including roses, calla lilies, bearded irises, agapanthus and hydrangeas, still flourish on Alcatraz.

Garden lovers, grab the brochure, The Gardens of Alcatraz , at the kiosk after disembarking the ferry for more information.

Get the App!

The National Park Service developed an NPS Golden Gate App, which covers Alcatraz Island and other NPS sites around San Francisco. The app includes an interactive map, hidden stories and up-to-date ranger information.

Where to Eat at Alcatraz

Got hungry kids? The Landing at Alcatraz, the ticketing and boarding area off The Embarcadero, offers a cafeteria with family options, rain ponchos, and souvenirs. Food service is not available on Alcatraz Island. Only bottled water is permitted on the tour.

You can picnic if you bring food and carry it in a backpack. Coolers are not allowed. There are picnic tables where you exit the boat on Alcatraz Island.

History of the Alcatraz Island

Derived from the Spanish word alcatraces, or seabirds, the island has been home to birds for generations. In the 1850s, the island became a military fortress due to its strategic positioning in the San Francisco Bay.

A lighthouse was needed since the shipping traffic increased in and out of San Francisco after the gold rush. In 1854, the Alcatraz Island Light became the first lighthouse on the West Coast.

During the Civil War, Alcatraz Island housed 400 soldiers and numerous cannons to protect the port. However, in 1907 the U.S. Army decommissioned Alcatraz. The island always housed prisoners from the early days as a military fort. Soon after its decommissioning as a fort, military guards built a cell house.

Getting to Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is located in the San Francisco Bay and is reached by ferry only. The Alcatraz Ferry Terminal is located at Pier 33 on The Embarcadero. Alcatraz Cruises is the only ferry that stops at Alcatraz Island.

Parking is an issue while visiting Downtown San Francisco. During my trip, I used public transportation and left my car at my hotel.

Consideration for brands mentioned. T

Know Before You Go:

• Tickets go on sale 90 days in advance.
• Alcatraz Island, or ‘The Rock”, is hilly and requires climbing. Motorized transportation is limited.
• Luggage larger than a standard backpack is not allowed.
• A photo ID is required for the purchaser of the tickets.
• Give yourself at least two-and-a-half hours for the tour.
• Bring a jacket and rain gear since the weather is unpredictable.
• Make reservations for this popular tour months in advance, especially for the evening tour.
• In mid-August, flies that hatch from the bird colonies and swarm.
• The Self-Guided booklet, Discover Alcatraz – A Tour of the Rock , costs $1.
• The tour includes an audio tour headset.

The post Alcatraz Tours at Night: The Best Alcatraz Tour appeared first on Carful of Kids .

Escape from the Rock! Cruise around Alcatraz

TICKET PRICES STARTING FROM

Taxes and fees will be calculated at checkout

Embark on a 90-minute cruise along the San Francisco waterfront, under the Golden Gate Bridge and past Angel Island State Park before circling Alcatraz Island for an in-depth view of the prison. Take in the sights and sounds of the island as you listen to ex-guards and former inmates tell their stories of murder, mayhem, and mobsters on an audio tour with historical photos via your smartphone, tablet or other WiFi-enabled device. This ticket allows you to skip the box office line and go straight to the gate.

Ticket Options

1 Option Available

Escape from the Rock: $31

Ticket Information

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per traveler

What's Included

• "Straight to the gate" access

What's not Included

• Food and drinks (available to purchase)
• Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
• Alcatraz access / ticket

Cancellation Policy

• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Wheelchair accessible, only on first deck
• Children from 0 to 4 years old sail for free
• Times are subject to change without notice

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From Alcatraz to Tihar: Infamous prisons that are now tourist attractions

Precious Rongmei , TIMESOFINDIA.COM , TRAVEL TRENDS , WORLD Updated : Aug 28, 2024, 23:36 IST

Let’s go to prison – is not a sentence you’d normally hear people say in their daily lives. As grim as it may sound, this is something you can say when you are travelling. If you are still confused, we are talking about prisons that, believe it or not, are now tourist attractions. Some of these prisons are no longer an active place of incarceration, but some are still functioning as correctional facilities. Prisons are often associated with dark histories and grim stories, but some have transformed into popular tourist destinations. These former places of confinement offer a glimpse into the past, revealing tales of notorious inmates, harsh conditions, and remarkable escapes. Here’s a look at some of the most infamous prisons that you can now visit as a tourist.

Alcatraz Island, USA

Alcatraz, perhaps the most famous prison in the world, sits on a rocky island in San Francisco Bay. Once home to some of America’s most notorious criminals, including Al Capone and the "Birdman" Robert Stroud, Alcatraz was known for its maximum-security measures and the near impossibility of escape. The prison closed in 1963, and today, Alcatraz Island is a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can explore the cell blocks, visit the solitary confinement cells, and learn about the infamous escape attempts that have become the stuff of legend.

Cellular Jail, India

The Cellular Jail, also known as "Kala Pani," is located in Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Built by the British in the late 19th century, it was used to exile political prisoners during India’s struggle for independence. Many freedom fighters were held in this prison. Today, the Cellular Jail is a national memorial and a popular tourist destination.

Tihar Jail, India

Tihar Jail, located in Delhi, is the largest complex of prisons in South Asia and is known for its high-profile inmates and strict security. Established in 1958, it has housed a wide range of prisoners, from political activists to notorious criminals. Although still an operational prison, Tihar has gained attention for its unique rehabilitation programs, including the Tihar Factory, where inmates produce various goods. While not a traditional tourist attraction, Tihar Jail offers limited public access during special events, providing a rare glimpse into its operations and inmate life.

Kilmainham Gaol, Ireland

Located in Dublin, Kilmainham Gaol played a significant role in Irish history, especially during the struggle for independence. Many leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were imprisoned and executed here, making it a symbol of Irish resistance. The prison, which operated from 1796 to 1924, now serves as a museum. Guided tours take visitors through the cold, stone corridors, revealing the harsh conditions endured by inmates and the historical events that unfolded within its walls.

Robben Island, South Africa

Robben Island is synonymous with the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. The island prison, located off the coast of Cape Town, held many political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, who spent 18 of his 27 years of imprisonment here. Robben Island is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. Visitors can tour the prison, and see Mandela’s cell

The Tower of London, England

While the Tower of London is best known as a royal palace and fortress, it also served as a notorious prison for over 800 years. Famous figures like Anne Boleyn, Guy Fawkes, and Sir Walter Raleigh were imprisoned within its walls. The tower’s history is filled with tales of intrigue, torture, and execution. Today, it’s one of London’s most visited attractions.

Hoa Lo Prison, Vietnam

Known to American prisoners of war as the "Hanoi Hilton," Hoa Lo Prison in Hanoi, Vietnam, was used by French colonists to house political prisoners and later by North Vietnam during the Vietnam War. The prison was notorious for its harsh conditions and brutal treatment of inmates. Today, a portion of Hoa Lo has been preserved as a museum.

Eastern State Penitentiary, USA

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Eastern State Penitentiary was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world. Opened in 1829, it was designed to inspire penitence in criminals through solitary confinement. The prison held many notorious criminals, including mobster Al Capone. Today, the crumbling cell blocks and guard towers are open to the public, offering a haunting glimpse into the past.

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7 Last-Minute Escapes for Labor Day Weekend

If you’re still hoping to stretch out the last days of summer, there are places in North America that are not too hot, not too crowded and not necessarily that far away.

By Shannon Sims

It might sound like an impossible request: a last-minute Labor Day getaway with gorgeous weather and minimal crowds that you can squeeze into a long weekend. There are good reasons many destinations across North America won’t fit the bill. Wildfires are burning in some parts of the West, tropical disturbances are brewing in the Caribbean, the East Coast’s coastal retreats are packed, and much of the South is sweaty and oh so steamy. But if you’re still hoping to stretch out the last days of summer, there are places that are not too hot, not too crowded and not necessarily that far away.

Here are seven inspirations in North America for a Labor Day getaway.

North Carolina

Hike to magical waterfalls

Less than an hour’s drive from downtown Asheville, N.C., and covering 500,000-plus acres, Pisgah National Forest is a magical place to be immersed in nature. American goldfinches and Carolina chickadees sing high above waterfalls framed by lush green trees, and babbling streams pour down moss-covered rocks hiding salamanders, newts and crayfish.

During the summer, these wooded areas are chock-full of children at summer camp, and the trails are often busy with hikers. But by Labor Day, most of the kids have returned home, while the weather is often perfect, with average temperatures in the seventies. You have your pick of activities — bird-watching, fly fishing, waterfall dousing and hiking.

Easy trails can be found at the North Carolina Arboretum , but for a shaded, moderate hike to a waterfall in which you can douse, check out Catawba Falls Trail . For another moderate hike (but no swimming), there is Linville Gorge and Falls , nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Southern Appalachians. Advanced hikers can summit the 6,684-foot Mount Mitchell , the highest peak in the Eastern United States, in Mount Mitchell State Park, which is surrounded by Pisgah Forest.

Later, make your way back to Asheville , where a robust restaurant and brewery scene offers a perfect setting for sharing stories of your day. Local favorites include Cúrate for upscale tapas, Chai Pani for Indian food and Wicked Weed Brewing for hoppy deliciousness.

See San Francisco’s best-loved sights

“The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco,” may be a clichéd phrase, but anyone who has visited this California city during the summer most likely experienced fog, dank air and brisk wind. But September and October are San Francisco’s warmest and brightest months of the year.

A long weekend is just enough for first timers to sample the city’s best-known attractions. Walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge . Board a cable car as it clangs up and down the city’s hills. Explore Alcatraz Island on a three-hour tour (book ahead). Take in the Fisherman’s Wharf area, which may be less chaotic with many children back in school. Watch a home game of the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park , right on the bay. Or check out the Presidio Tunnel Tops , a newly developed stretch of national park land featuring stunning panoramic views.

The city is a particularly special destination for those interested in L.G.B.T.Q. history. The GLBT Historical Society Museum , nicknamed the Queer Smithsonian, is a good place to start, as is a stroll through the Castro neighborhood or a stop at the Castro’s first gay bar, opened in 1963 as the Missouri Mule (now called Beaux).

Swim, fish, boat, then sip, at the Finger Lakes

One of the largest Finger Lakes in upstate New York, Keuka Lake stretches about 20 miles and draws visitors with clear-water swimming, paddling, kayaking and fishing. Labor Day marks the end of its high summer season.

Visitors can use picnic tables, playgrounds and swimming areas off sandy beaches at Keuka Lake State Park near Branchport or Red Jacket Park in the village of Penn Yan, on the lake’s northern end.

On its southern shores, the charming village of Hammondsport has cafes, shops and restaurants, many of which are clustered around the Pulteney Square Historic District .

Fishing is a big draw, with brown trout, yellow perch and more inhabiting the lake’s deep waters. You can buy your own fishing equipment at Jake’s Boat Livery , or get the professionals to do it by chartering a fishing expedition through Summit to Stream Adventures .

Don’t forget the wine: 20 vineyards are scattered around the lakeshore, with six part of the Keuka Lake Wine Trail . You can visit most wineries on your own or with a tour.

Keuka Lake is a one- to two-hour drive from airports in Rochester, Ithaca, Syracuse or Buffalo. The lake is about a five-hour drive from New York City.

Soak your stress away in alpine splendor

During Labor Day weekend, the I-70 corridor that connects Denver to the ski towns to the west, like Winter Park, Keystone and Breckenridge, can be bumper to bumper, especially getting back on Monday.

But nestled in the San Juan Mountains, about an hour’s drive from Telluride, is Ouray, an often overlooked gem for outdoor fun. Sure, there’s great hiking and canyoning, but there aren’t many towns where you can stroll down Main Street and stop into a boutique for shopping, a cafe for coffee and a hot springs for soaking. Ouray Hot Springs Pool is sulfur-free — in other words, no rotten-egg stink — and offers not just one pool but many: The family-friendly pools feature water slides, a volleyball net and a rolling log, while the adults-only soaking section is kept between 102 and 106 degrees.

Montrose Regional Airport , about an hour’s drive from Ouray, has direct flights to Chicago, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth and Denver.

Sample delicious urban delights

You won’t scratch the surface of what Mexico City offers in a long weekend, so consider tossing away those checklists and instead soak up the atmosphere in one or two neighborhoods.

Start by signing up for the city’s bike share app, Ecobici , for an easy way to get around town. The Roma neighborhood, a favorite among travelers, has shaded, walkable streets; inviting plazas; and some of the city’s best restaurants. For a neighborhood with a tad fewer tourists, try La Condesa , a short bike ride from Roma and between the two lovely green spaces called Bosque de Chapultepec and Parque México . Shopaholics should visit Polanco , where the commercial thoroughfare Presidente Masaryk Avenue offers luxury stores.

Whichever neighborhood you pick to explore, you’ll be delighted by the quality and flavors of food offered at the city’s restaurants, food carts and 11,000-plus taco shops. Even if a corner spot looks shabby, it might be producing food that could rank among the best bites you’ve ever had. Look no further than Taquería El Califa de León, an unassuming taco stand that won a Michelin star this year , as an example of the culinary magic that lies around any given corner.

Nova Scotia

Time-travel in a 1700s fishing village

About 62 miles southwest of downtown Halifax along Nova Scotia’s South Shore, breezy Lunenburg is a fishing village with charm — and fresh seafood — to spare.

Old Town Lunenburg is considered by UNESCO as the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America. Its colorful homes face tall ships moored in the harbor, transporting visitors back to the 1700s. Stroll around the area on your own, popping into local shops and restaurants, or sign up for a walking tour .

At the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic , part of the Nova Scotia Museum , you can experience what life was like in a fishing village throughout the centuries, from early Mi’kmaq communities to the arrival of Black Loyalists in 1783 to today. The museum is housed in an old fish processing plant, and the Old Fish Factory Restaurant now serves Nova Scotia lobster rolls on a wharf-side patio.

Fresh lobster is available year-round in Nova Scotia, so check out some stops on the Nova Scotia Lobster Trail . But don’t forget much of the Atlantic’s bounty: mussels, scallops, halibut, Arctic char, cod — even a seaweed called dulse — can be found on local menus.

Roam and ride in the sand dunes

The Great Lakes were made for summer, but the challenge is finding a spot that isn’t too crowded. Silver Lake Sand Dunes is a destination even many Michiganders don’t know about.

Located an hour-and-a-half drive from Grand Rapids on Lake Michigan’s eastern coastline, the dunes comprise 2,000 acres and are part of Silver Lake State Park. Even though they are situated in the heart of the United States, the dunes will make you feel as if you’re roaming the sands of Arabia.

Activities at the park include swimming, canoeing and horseback riding along the beach, or hiking through the surrounding evergreen forests.

But a classic way to explore the dunes is through Mac Wood’s Dune Rides , a local company that for nearly a century has been taking visitors in open-top trucks for thrilling and informative rides through the sand.

While in the area, be sure to visit the Little Sable Point Lighthouse , an 1874 tower that was made more accessible to the public in 2010. Climb the tower and take in the lake, forests and dunes below.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this story included a photo caption that misstated the location of the Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City. It is in Centro district, not Polanco. It also misstated the location of the Silver Lake Sand Dunes. The dunes are on Lake Michigan’s eastern coastline, not western.

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