Alcatraz Island National Park, San Francisco

Address Alcatraz, CA Map, Ferry Alcatraz Cruises (the only way to get to the island) leave from Pier 33, just south of Fisherman's Wharf. The F line streetcar stops at Pier 33., Tickets Advance purchase highly recommended up to 60 days in advance from Alcatraz Cruises. There is no entrance fee for the park itself., Schedule Ferries depart every 30 minutes beginning at 9am Website

Even if your kids are too young to understand what a jail is, a trip to Alcatraz can be interesting and fun. Most kids enjoy the ferry ride on San Francisco Bay and the flowers and birds on the island. Daytime tours are self-guided and you can go at whatever pace works for you and your kids. For older kids, this is a great way to understand a part of our history first-hand.

School age kids may also enjoy getting a copy of the "Junior Ranger booklet" from staff at the dock and following the steps to become a Junior Park Ranger.