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Alcatraz Island Behind The Scenes Tour Tickets

Group on guided tour outside Alcatraz Island building, San Francisco Bay in background.
Ranger speaking to visitors during a Behind The Scenes Tour on Alcatraz Island.
Alcatraz Island cell block corridor during evening tour.
Walkway to prison cells with mossy walls on Alcatraz Island, San Francisco.

Open today

9:00am - 6:30pm

Explore at your pace

Choose your entry time, stay as long as you like

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 3 days before the start of your experience

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Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Audio guide

Enhance your experience with multilingual audio guide

Guided tour

    • Enjoy a more intimate Alcatraz experience with small-group access and exclusive evening programs, plus the iconic Cellhouse audio tour.

    • Your ticket includes round-trip ferry transfers, a two-hour Behind the Scenes guided tour with 30 or fewer guests, and access to the Alcatraz Night Tour program.

    • You’ll also get the award-winning Cellhouse audio guide, entry to permanent exhibits, and access to docent-led talks and tours around the island.

    • It’s a great pick if you want to go beyond the usual daytime visit, uncover hidden areas and stories, and round it off with specially curated evening experiences.

    • Round-trip ferry to Alcatraz Island

    • Admission to Alcatraz

    • Two-hour guided tour

    • Access to the Night Tour program

    • Cellhouse audio tour

    • Access to permanent exhibits

    • Docent-led tours and talks

    • Food and beverages
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 3 days before the experience begins and get a full refund.

  • Small-group, two-hour guided access to Alcatraz, followed by Night Tour programs and the renowned Cellhouse audio.

    Getting started

    Arrive at the pier and check in before boarding the ferry to Alcatraz Island. After docking, follow your guide for the Behind the Scenes tour before transitioning to the Night Tour program and Cellhouse audio.

    What to expect

    Experience Alcatraz in a limited-capacity format that prioritizes depth. Your guide leads a focused Behind the Scenes route, then you continue with the evening program and award-winning Cellhouse audio.

    • Behind the Scenes tour: Explore select areas and stories not offered during daytime visits, in a group of 30 or fewer.

    • Cellhouse audio tour: Hear accounts from former inmates and officers, including themes like escape attempts and life in solitary.

    • Night Tour program: Join optional evening programs, exhibits, and docent-led talks to deepen your understanding of the island.

    • Round-trip ferry: Convenient transportation to and from the island is included, giving you ample time to explore.

  • What to bring

    • Go for comfortable walking shoes since you’ll be covering quite a bit of ground, including some steep and uneven paths.

    • A light jacket or extra layers will come in handy, especially since it can get chilly out on the bay in the evening.

    • It’s a good idea to keep a valid photo ID with you, just in case it’s needed at check-in.

    What’s not allowed

    • The Behind the Scenes Tour is only for guests aged 12 and above, so younger children won’t be able to join.

    • Audio tour refunds aren’t offered for the Behind the Scenes or Night Tour options.

    Accessibility

    • Keep in mind that the island has steep roads and walkways, which may be a bit tricky if you have mobility concerns.

    • If you need extra help getting around, the S.E.A.T. Tram service is available to make things easier.

    • Wheelchairs aren’t available for rent at the pier or on the island, so be sure to plan ahead if needed.

    Additional information

    • The Behind the Scenes guided tour is in English, but the Cellhouse audio guide comes in multiple languages.

    • Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure time for a smooth start to your visit.

    • Tours typically run from Tuesday to Saturday, but it’s always best to check your voucher for the latest schedule and return ferry details.

    • Once your guided tour wraps up, you’re free to explore additional exhibits and optional programs during your evening visit.

    • Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
    • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.
    • Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.
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