Alcatraz Island

Address	Alcatraz Island (accessible only by ferry)
Admission	Adults $16.00 (includes self-guided audio tour) Reduced rates for seniors and children
Hours	Ferry first departs at 9:30am from Pier 41 at the waterfront and runs every 20-30 minutes. The last boat from Alcatraz leaves at 4:30pm. Alcatraz is closed only on Christmas and New Year's Day.
Phone	415.705.5555
Website	www.nps.gov, www.pier39.com

As if in its own separate world, isolated Alcatraz Island sits in the middle of the San Francisco Bay. It was the strongest military fortress in the west and the first (and still operating) lighthouse along America’s west coast.

Now one of the Bay area’s most popular destinations, Blue & Gold Fleet operates tours to Alcatraz under the concession of the National Park Service. Visitors cross the Bay on a 15-minute ferry ride that leaves from Pier 41 on San Francisco's waterfront. Once on the island, visitors can tour the prison and discover the history of "The Rock."

Tour guides and exhibitions educate visitors about the rich history of Alcatraz Island and some of the prison’s most notorious inmates including Al Capone, George "Machine Gun" Kelley, and Robert Stroud, the "Birdman of Alcatraz." Original objects, artwork and documents of the inmates and prison guards are also on display.

There is a current exhibit about the American Indian’s presence on Alcatraz, including their occupation of the island during 1969 to 1971 and the confinement of a group of Hopi Indians in 1895.

Breath-taking views of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge can be seen from the island and it also offers an unexpected treat for the nature enthusiast. Unique flowers and plants grow all over the island.

Keep in mind that there is no food service available on Alcatraz, so you may want to pack a lunch to enjoy in the picnic area located at the dock.