Alcatraz

San Francisco, California

Copyright: f11photo/Shutterstock.com

DESTINATIONS united states sanfrancisco Do & See Alcatraz

Alcatraz

Once a federal prison housing dangerous and notorious criminals, Alcatraz (The Rock) now welcomes tourists into the cell blocks once occupied by the likes of Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelley, and the Birdman of Alcatraz. Self-guided audio tours have dramatic narratives of Alcatraz’s grim history, including realistic sound effects one would hear in prison. Apart from the prison complex itself, Alcatraz Island essentially operates as a national park. You can spend a full day hiking, taking in the view from multiple observation points and appreciating the natural beauty.

Useful Information

Address: Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, CA
Phone: +1 415 561 4900
More Info: www.nps.gov/alcatraz
Address: The hours of operation vary with the season, so check the official website before you visit. Departures are available about every half hour throughout the day beginning at 8:45am.
More Info: Alcatraz is reached only by ferry from Fisherman’s Wharf
More Info: c210741ea0a42beee2691646f821be1730c7edf5
More Info: www.facebook.com/alcatraznps

Do & See

San Francisco is a diverse destination, encompassing nature, history, art, science and some of the most beautiful scenery along the West Coast of the United States. Pop culture and old traditions are neatly packed into this one fabulous city. Wander around the distinct neighborhoods, cross the Golden Gate Bridge, ride the cable cars and explore everything San Francisco has to offer.

Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge

A marvel of modern engineering, the Golden Gate Bridge was completed in 1937 to become the world's most photographed bridge. Its red-orange towers and sweeping main cables glow in the sunshine, when they are not embraced by thick fog. Drive, walk or cycle across this man-made marvel — the views are just spectacular. The name …

Alcatraz

Once a federal prison housing dangerous and notorious criminals, Alcatraz (The Rock) now welcomes tourists into the cell blocks once occupied by the likes of Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelley, and the Birdman of Alcatraz. Self-guided audio tours have dramatic narratives of Alcatraz’s grim history, including realistic sound effects one would hear in prison. Apart …

The Painted Ladies

The Painted Ladies

The Seven Painted Ladies of San Francisco are one of the most photographed landmarks in the city. They are symbolic of the California Gold Rush, which enabled a building boom with all its newfound wealth. The colorist movement in the 1960s gave the normally gray houses their bright colors to complete their look. Fans of …

Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf

A long strip along the waterfront is home to the Cannery, Ghirardelli Square and Pier 39, where you'll find sea lions basking in the sunlight. A busy waterfront, also called Fish Alley, sells tons of sole, shrimp, salmon, and squid every year. Crab season (mid-November – June) is the time for seafood lovers. There …

Lombard Street

This steep and winding street is the most photographed street in San Francisco. Tourists come to the Russian Hill to see, drive or walk down the "crookedest street in the world," that has in total eight hairpin turns. The Hyde Street Cable Car makes a stop at the top of Lombard Street. From there, …

Yosemite & Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco

Yosemite & Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco

Known for its steep granite cliffs, waterfalls, imposing sequoia groves, and diversity of wildlife, the Yosemite National Park is, hands down, one of the most visually stunning places on earth––pictures don't do justice to how spectacular this place is. So, next time you're in San Francisco, don't miss out on the chance to enjoy the …

San Francisco Cable Cars

San Francisco Cable Cars

No visit to San Francisco would be complete without a ride on a cable car. These cable-powered streetcars have been transporting people up and down the hills of San Francisco since 1873. A highlight of the ride is actually at the end (or the beginning) at the turnaround. Watch while drivers push the cable …

Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park

The Golden Gate Park is much more than just trees and walking paths. It houses multiple attractions, such as the California Academy of Sciences, the de Young Museum, the Stow Lake, the Dutch Windmill, and even the Japanese Tea Garden. Come with time to spare, and bring your bike along on a Sunday, when a …

Chinatown

A walk through the dragon-adorned Pagoda Gates leads visitors into the colorful and exciting area of San Francisco known as Chinatown. It is tightly packed with exotic shops, ethnic food markets, and excellent restaurants. In February each year, the Chinese New Year is celebrated here with parades and dancing dragons. Chinatown in San Francisco is …

Golden Gate Bridge Guided Bicycle Tour

Golden Gate Bridge Guided Bicycle Tour

Ride from San Francisco to the city of Sausalito on a guided half-day bike tour that includes lunch and all-day bike rental. Discover a little bit of local history as you follow your guide along the Bay Trail bike path from Fisherman's Wharf to Sausalito, crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. Make regular stops at scenic spots …

Mission Dolores Park

Mission Dolores Park

Mission Dolores Park, often abbreviated to Dolores Park, is a city park at the western edge of the Mission District. Amazing views, a relaxing atmosphere, and a location close to some of the city's most popular neighborhoods. What more could you ask for in a park? Dolores Park makes appearance in many movies and series …

Ferry Building Marketplace

Ferry Building Marketplace

After its opening in 1898, the Ferry Building became the transportation focal point. At its peak, as many as 50,000 people a day commuted by ferry. An elegant two-story public area with repeating interior arches and overhead skylights, the Ferry Building is a great place to be whether you're looking to dine, shop for fresh …

Twin Peaks

Twin Peaks, named for a pair of 922-foot-high summits, is a residential neighborhood with winding streets and a grassy hilltop park. The wind-swept peaks (bring a jacket!) offer 360-degree views of the Bay area. If you want a cool and challenging urban hike, start in the Mission district and hike all the way up to …

Ghirardelli Square

Ghirardelli Square

Since 1852, Ghirardelli Square has housed the oldest continuously operating chocolate manufacturer in the country. To attract crowds, it has added more than fifty premium shops, galleries, restaurants and a hotel. A large open-air plaza is a great place to relax during the weekend or after …

Lands End Lookout

Lands End Lookout

Lands End is one of the most beautiful places in San Francisco. History combines with nature to create an absolutely gorgeous view of the ocean, the Golden Gate bridge, and the Ocean Beach. Come here towards the end of the day and take a look at the ruins of the ancient Turkish baths, and afterwards …

Palace of Fine Arts

Palace of Fine Arts

The Palace of Fine Arts is a monumental structure originally constructed for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition. Completely rebuilt in the 70’s, it is the only structure from the Exposition that survives on site. The focal point of the complex is a 162 feet (49 m) high rotunda, enclosed by a lagoon on one side. …

Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is located at the end of the Golden Gate Park and it is the perfect place to relax in the sun or even take a romantic walk around sunset listening to waves. On the weekend, if the weather is warm, it can get quite crowded but it is still worth a …

Rincon Park

Rincon Park is a waterfront patch of green grass with a promenade and a giant bow and arrow sculpture known as 'Cupid's Span'. Bring your takeaway lunch, enjoy the Bay Bridge view and take a few snaps for your …

Aquarium of the Bay

Aquarium of the Bay

In addition to the expected displays of sea life, Aquarium of the Bay invites visitors into the hidden world of life under the San Francisco Bay and in the neighboring rivers. A moving walkway takes you through two crystal clear tunnels, 300 feet in length, surrounded by 700,000 gallons of filtered Bay water and …

Walt Disney Family Museum

Walt Disney Family Museum

If you are a Walt Disney fan, then this is the place to visit. Here, you will learn more about the fascinating and inspiring story of Walt Disney — the man behind your favourite animation studio and an entertainment empire. The museum features historic materials and artifacts, including early drawings and animation, movies, music …

Wharf and Waterfront Segway Tour

Wharf and Waterfront Segway Tour

Moving around on small personal electric vehicles is becoming more and more popular. Take a San Francisco Segway tour along the waterfront to see popular city attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghirardelli Square, and Alcatraz Island. You'll cover more ground than walking and will give your feet a …

Maritime National Historical Park

Maritime National Historical Park

The San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park is steps away from Fisherman's Wharf. The park has a fleet of historic vessels, a visitor center, a maritime museum, and a library. The Maritime Museum shows off approximately 35,000 items related to local maritime history. Hyde Street Pier gives you access to very maintained historic ships. Locals …

Legion of Honor

Legion of Honor

The Legion of Honor building is a replica of the Palais de la Legion d'Honneur in Paris and it was completed in 1924. The building serves as part of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, displaying world classics mixed in with some modern pieces, representing important contemporary artists. There's something for everyone here! There's …

Coit Tower

Coit Tower is a 210-foot (64-meter) tower in the Telegraph Hill neighborhood offering panoramic views over the city and the bay. Don't miss the 27 murals painted by 26 artists in the American Social Realism style. It's worth taking a guided …

Cable Car Museum

Cable Car Museum

The Cable Car Museum is a free museum in the Nob Hill neighborhood of San Francisco, located inside a cable car barn and a powerhouse. Since its establishment in 1974, the museum has displayed various mechanical devices such as tracks, cables, tools, detailed models and a collection of historic photographs. There are also three …

San Francisco Zoo

San Francisco Zoo

San Francisco Zoo houses 250 species and includes a children's zoo, a miniature train and a carousel — a great place for a day trip with the family. This is also a center that takes care of rare and endangered species. In case you get hungry, there is a restaurant …

Exploratorium

Kids and adults will find themselves busy for hours going through the Exploratorium science museum's many interactive exhibits. Come with time on your hands, since you'll want to stay longer at this scientific funhouse. Check the official program to see what's happening during the Thursday After Dark …

Asian Art Museum

Asian Art Museum

This is one of the largest museums in the world devoted exclusively to Asian art. It houses a collection spanning 6,000 years of history. Admire sculptures, paintings, ceramics, furniture and textiles and do not miss the amazing terracotta warriors from …

Angel Island State Park

Angel Island State Park

Taking a trip to Angel Island is not only great for hiking trails and breathtaking views, but also taking in a bit of local history: the Angel Island Immigration Station is also located here and offers a unique insight into the nation's past. Angel Island boasts expansive 360-degree views of the bay area–San Francisco skyline, …

Please don't close or refresh the page while we are processing your submission
Please be patient, this could take a few minutes.