Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island
· CA
Alcatraz reveals stories of American incarceration, justice, and our common humanity. This small island was once a fort, a military prison, and a maximum security federal penitentiary. In 1969, the Indians of All Tribes occupied Alcatraz for 19 months in the name of freedom and Native American civil rights. We invite you to explore Alcatraz's complex history and natural beauty.
Park report
Alert: Information
How this is rated
Poor: closures/hazards · Fair: cautions/noticesHospital wing, dining hall, shower room closed for rehabilitation work
Alert: Caution
How this is rated
Poor: closures/hazards · Fair: cautions/noticesAuto-Theft Warning - Only Bring What You Need to the Park
Hours Exceptions
NoteThanksgiving; Christmas; New Year's
Entrance Fee
How this is rated
Good: free entryFree — no entrance fee
Visitor Centers
Good1 visitor center
Activities Available
How this is rated
Good: many activities available6 activities
Park Name
InfoAlcatraz Island
Designation
InfoNational Park Area
State(s)
InfoCA
Phone
Info415-561-4900
goga_alca_socialmedia@nps.gov
Operating Hours
InfoAccess to Alcatraz Island is via commercial ferry service. For ticket reservation and schedule call (415) 981-7625 or go to www.alcatrazcitycruises.com. The ferry schedule changes seasonally. Alcatraz is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day. Once on the island you can stay up to the last ferry. Be aware that tickets sell out quickly and reservations are recommended. Tickets go on sale 90 days in advance.
Campgrounds
InfoNo campgrounds listed
Visitor Center: Dock Ranger Station
InfoSee park for hours
Activity: Food
InfoAvailable
Activity: Wildlife Watching
InfoAvailable
Activity: Birdwatching
InfoAvailable
Activity: Museum Exhibits
InfoAvailable
Activity: Shopping
InfoAvailable
Activity: Bookstore and Park Store
InfoAvailable
Theme: Colonization and Settlement
InfoFeatured at this park
Theme: Forts
InfoFeatured at this park
Theme: Incarceration
InfoFeatured at this park
Theme: Jails and Prisons
InfoFeatured at this park
Theme: Maritime
InfoFeatured at this park
Theme: Maritime - Military
InfoFeatured at this park
Theme: Lighthouses
InfoFeatured at this park
Theme: Medicine
InfoFeatured at this park
Weather Info
InfoThe climate on Alcatraz is unpredictable and can change suddenly. Cold, foggy mornings may give way to sunny afternoons, which in turn can shift quickly back to more fog and blustery winds. The most p
Getting There
InfoThe Alcatraz Ferry Terminal is located on Pier 33, near the intersection of The Embarcadero and Bay Street. Ferry tickets are required to get to Alcatraz. Purchase tickets through https://www.alcatraz
GPS Coordinates
Info37.8268° N, -122.4230° W
Data from official federal recreation records. Updated periodically. Park conditions change — always verify with the park before visiting. Verify on official park website