Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz reveals stories of American incarceration, justice, and our common humanity.
Photo: NPS / NPS
About Alcatraz Island
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.
Pair it with another park
CAdrive time
CAdrive time
CAdrive time
CAdrive time
CAdrive time
CAdrive time
Driving times from Alcatraz Island, one way, via road — a realistic day is 8–10 hours behind the wheel.
Hours
Alcatraz Island
- Mon
- 9:00AM - 6:30PM
- Tue
- 9:00AM - 9:30PM
- Wed
- 9:00AM - 9:30PM
- Thu
- 9:00AM - 9:30PM
- Fri
- 9:00AM - 9:30PM
- Sat
- 9:00AM - 9:30PM
- Sun
- 9:00AM - 6:30PM
Activities
Getting there
The 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 pleasant weather usually occurs in spring and fall. Summers tend to be cool and foggy, winter is our rainy season. Temperatures on Alcatraz seldom rise above 75°F (24°C) or fall below 38°
Frequently asked questions
- What is there to do at Alcatraz Island?
- Popular activities include Birdwatching, Bookstore and Park Store, Food, Museum Exhibits, Shopping, Wildlife Watching.
- Which national parks are within a day's drive of Alcatraz Island?
- Within about a day's drive you can reach San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park (5 min), Fort Point National Historic Site (10 min), Presidio of San Francisco (12 min), Golden Gate National Recreation Area (27 min), Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park (28 min), Muir Woods National Monument (28 min).