We utilized the Alcatraz Tours service. The ferry to and from the island ran quickly and efficiently. We walked through Alcatraz using the complimentary audio tour. I highly recommend going this route. The audio tour brings the whole experience to life. The entire experience--audio tour included--was very enlightening. We enjoyed every minute. Be prepared to budget 2-3 hours to fully... more

Initially I didn't want to go to Alcatraz, I thought it would be scary I guess, but boy was I wrong. The self guided tour is so good because you can do it at your own pace. The views back to San Francisco are amazing. more

We took the Alcatraz night tour in September and it was a great experience for the whole family. The boat ride over gives you some nice views, although it was very foggy so we didn't get the great views of the city that others have described. It was quite chilly outside, so be prepared to get cold if you show... more

For a round trip of just over a mile each way, the USD 26 fee per person is a rip-off, just like a number of other tourist trips in this expensive city, but it's still worthwhile for a once-in-a-lifetime visit. There is an audio guide included which tells interesting stories including the tale of the escape attempt in the 1960s... more

I must admit that a visit to " The Rock" was not on the top of my priority list, but I decided to give it a go...and I am so glad I did. Forget for a moment that you are going to a former US prison, and just enjoy the scenic views from the boat ride over and also walking... more

Alcatraz is a must if you are visiting San Francisco! The audio tour is great! The views of the city from the island are too beautiful for words! You have to go! more

I wasn't looking forward to visiting a crumbling old prison on an island, but I'm very glad I did because it was briliant. The audio tour was great, with realistic sound effects that bought the prison alive. They told the story of the escape, Al Capone and the bird man [ apparently he had no birds on Alcatraz ]. All... more

We did the night tour. We enjoyed our tour and you get some great views of the city and the bridges with the sunset. I did feel a little rushed as you have to go back at a specific time. I understand you can stay a longer time during the day and just catch one of the shuttles back. You... more

My husband and I took the Alcatraz Night Tour. It was great. We got to see the Golden Gate Bridge as the sun was setting on our way over to the island. The tour itself was great because you can take it at your own pace thanks to it being an audio tour. I've also heard it is a lot... more