Day tour to Alcatraz was high on our itinerary and it did not disappoint. The ferry over was a little too busy with visitors having to stand but this wasn’t an issue for us and just something to keep in mind. The initial tour with a guide around the island was fantastic as it was informative and entertaining. The self-guided audio tour on the inside wasn’t quite as good but still a must. Great tour and experience and a huge thanks to the staff who made this unforgettable.

The boat ride out/back was pleasant and well organised. It’s a big complex but the only part open is the main cell block. There are lots of other buildings and areas that are out-of-bounds. I’m sure it costs a lot to maintain and run the boats but with 1.5 million visitors a year at about $60pp I’m sure more could be restored (made safe) and opened up.

What an experience and we visited on a rare really clear day. the fog would definitely make it a much more bleak experience. The rangers were great and full of knowledge and the fact you can wander round for as long as you want is great. My two words of warning are the birds there are lots they are noisy and it smells anywhere near where they nest. The other sad fact is as a Part of the history and heritage of the San Francisco bay area is does seem to be left to just decay and there was lots of bits that seemed dilapidated. I just compared it to lots of older heritage sites in the uk and just think needs a little more love. What an amazing place though. 100% worth a visit.

An interesting insight into the bleakness of Alcatraz. Took the self guided audio tour which was narrated by ex 'cons' and prison guards. Prison cells small. Regime described was tough. The building itself has flaking paint all over the walls. (I guess they don't want it to look pristine). The prison guard quarters were just rubble. There is the obligatory gift shop. There are some ongoing works on the island. This attraction must make quite a substantial amount of money. Perhaps more of it could be spent on the island and make the visitors trip more amenable. Be prepared for the strong smell of bird droppings. The trip across on the ferry gives great views of Golden Gate bridge.

Alcatraz was the highlight of our trip to San Francisco. My husband and I enjoyed seeing the lighthouse, jailcells, and gardens on the island. We were excited that the back trail was open (Agave Trail I think is what the park ranger called it) because it's usually closed through most of the year. I figure it's due to the high waves that can break near the top of the trail. A beautiful staircase leads you up towards the lighthouse. The audio tour through the jailcell was very unique and informative. A must do on the island! We enjoyed learning about the history of the island, prison, and Indian tribes while touring around Alcatraz. It is a lot of walking but there are plenty of benches to rest on and beautiful views of the bay and San Francisco no matter where you are on the island. While locals seem to undervalue this unique attraction off their shores, it's a must see for visitors. I would allow at least 2 hours to see the island fully. We took the first boat of the day over from Pier 33 and was glad we did. Definitely get there early to enjoy the island before it gets crowded.

This place is amazing, have always wanted to go and so glad I made the time. Friends and I only waited about 15 minutes to get tickets - plenty of spaces, but they do not take cash. Ferry ride is about 10 minutes with excellent views - overpriced snacks on board. The island is really hilly, so be prepared with good walking shoes. The cells are sobering, and actually the isolation cells were much better than the regular ones. The gardens in the back have some nice plants that are worth the walk. Definitely a don't-miss place.

The tour of Alcatraz was amazing! Make sure to buy your tickets through Alcatraz City Cruises though. I never received the tickets I purchased through StubHub of which I paid double and should have been a red flag when the completed purchase was in euros. I quickly bought them without doing research, a mistake I will not make again. Alcatraz City Cruises is great though!!!

Fascinating couple of hours ! The audio tour of the cell block was interesting and well paced. A random Tuesday in November - no queues for the boats either direction and not too busy so could feel the isolation. Booked the day before directly with City Cruises linked from the NPS website with no issues (presumably as off-season generally). Worth a visit!

You can learn so much and it is very interesting. My friends and I got there a little late and they were nice enough to just move us to go on the next ferry. They were very flexible. We did street parking and it was easy to find something close to the pier. We did the Alcatraz Island Tickets day tour for a reasonable price and they sell quick food on the ferry (try to eat before or after). Definitely recommend the tour!

So cool, place is interesting, my husband and I took our teenage son and we all enjoyed it. You can walk at your own pace. We booked it through the official site which saves you money. Few tips, food is expensive so try and eat prior. It’s only snacks, if you have a hard time walking up inclines, they have a shuttle to go around the island, which we kind of wish we would’ve done for part of it, be sure and book several days ahead of time if not weeks cause it does sell out. Have fun.