• Visitor during the evening tour of Alcatraz gaze into the many cells that line up the corridor known as

    Alcatraz Island

    California

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  • Alcatraz Historic Preservation Projects

    Between 2011 and 2013, we are spending significant resources to make improvements to both the visitor experience and also to preserve the many historic buildings on the island. More »

Things To Know Before You Come

Alcatraz as seen from the Presidio of San Francisco.
Alcatraz Island frequently sells out - up to a week in advance in summer and near holidays. It is strongly recommended that you purchase your tickets in advance. Please see the Fees & Reservations section under PLAN YOUR VISIT for additional information including links to purchase tickets online.

The weather on Alcatraz can be some what unpredictable and can change quickly - it may be warm and sunny in the city and very windy and cool on the island. Summer days can sometimes be as cool as winter due to thick fog and strong winds. We recommend dressing in layers.

There is no food service available on the island - only water is available on site. Eating, drinking and smoking is only allowed at the dock level.

Be aware that Alcatraz is a sanctuary for thousands of seabirds - feeding or disturbing any wildlife is not permitted.

As Alcatraz has no entrance fee park passes do not apply - charge is for the private ferry service to and from the island only.

 
No Guns Allowed
As of February 22, 2010, a new federal law allows people who can legally possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws, to legally possess firearms in National Parks. However federal law prohibits the carrying of any firearm on the Alcatraz Cruises ferry.

It is the responsibility of visitors to understand and comply with all applicable state, local, and federal firearms laws before entering this park. See our Laws & Policies page for additional information.

Did You Know?

The gardens of Alcatraz.

The abundant plant life found on Alcatraz today is not quite “natural” – originally the island was a barren, wind swept, bird guano covered piece of sandstone rock.  Soil and plants were introduced by the U.S. Army as they built the first U.S. fort on the West Coast, beginning in the 1850s.