Guide to Securing Tickets for the Alcatraz Tour

Alcatraz, a renowned icon in modern pop culture, has been featured in numerous movies, books, TV shows, and music videos, boosting its popularity. Once known as a notorious prison, it now serves as a captivating historical site open to visitors. If you're in San Francisco, a trip to Alcatraz Island is a must. Due to its high visitor demand, it’s essential to book your tickets well in advance to ensure access.

The most reliable way to purchase Alcatraz tour tickets is through alcatrazcruises.com. This site, in partnership with the National Park Service, manages ferry reservations, allowing bookings up to 90 days ahead. Ferries operate daily from 9 am to 4:30 pm, with summer hours extending to 6 pm. To avoid disappointment, it’s advisable to reserve tickets early since they typically sell out a week in advance.

When selecting your tour, plan your schedule carefully. Consider a long weekend or a summer week in June for optimal visiting. Options include day tours, night tours, and combined packages. Day tours have more frequent ferry departures, while evening and combo tours are limited. The typical visit lasts around 4-5 hours. Ticket prices are approximately $38 for adults and $23 for children.

Tickets can also be purchased directly at Pier 33, the departure point for all ferries, but availability is limited. Only one ticket per person can be purchased at the counter, requiring friends to be present for multiple tickets. During off-peak seasons, early morning tickets, starting at 7:30 am, may be available on a first-come, first-served basis.