San Francisco Attractions

Alcatraz Island

The 2.5-hour Alcatraz Island excursion is a major attraction in San Francisco. The headphone-audio tour inside the infamous prison is exceptional, and the boat ride offers beautiful views of the bay. Purchase tickets as far in advance as possible.From its origins as the West Coast's first lighthouse and fort to its more recent history as a maximum security prison and site of Native American occupation, Alcatraz has always been iconic.

Now the site of a museum under the auspices of the National Park Service, Alcatraz Island (or "The Rock" as it is sometimes known) is a magnet for visitors to San Francisco. Reached by ferry from Fisherman's Wharf, the site includes objects made by notorious criminals and historic documents.