Alcatraz
San Francisco glimmers barely a mile away. The air whips your clothing about, the scent of the bay and some exotic flower reaches you. The prison towers above you, but nestled around it are gardens that burst with color. Now imagine what it would have been like traveling to the island of Alcatraz. Are you a soldier? A notorious prisoner? A family traveling to their home? Or a Native American starting a revolution? Travel to the island and experience a little of all of them. Look around at San Francisco and imagine running free on the island as a child, now look at it again from the tiny barred windows of the prison. Same view, very different experience.
Good for all ages, this tour is all at your own pace. Just make sure to check the times for the last ferry and be on it. Tours are operated by Alcatraz Cruises. If you can, get your tickets early, while it is possible to get tickets in person at the ticket office on Pier 33, though the recommended way is to order online. The Alcatraz tickets sell very quickly, sometimes days ahead of time. The price is reasonable and includes ferry there and back, audio tour and access to park workers with lots of interesting stories that breathes life into this island’s history. They will sometimes have a garden tour and are always happy to explain beautiful gardens on this island. They also have a great system for transporting those who may have trouble being able to walk to the top of the island.
Details:
Hornblower Alcatraz Landing
Pier 33, The Embarcadero
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