Traffic Advisory – July 4, 2009
Alcatraz Landing is located at Pier 33, on the Embarcadero. Due to day long celebrations along the Embarcadero and at Pier 39, parking lots typically fill up by noon on July 4th. We strongly suggest that you allow extra travel time arriving at Pier 33 for your scheduled departure. A great alternative to driving is taking public transportation. Please click on the following link for more information about public transportation to Pier 33, Alcatraz Landing.
Beauty. History. Infamy.
Alcatraz and history go hand in hand. Once home to some of America's most notorious criminals, the federal penitentiary that operated here from 1934 to 1963 brought a dark mystique to the Rock. The presence of infamous inmates like Al "Scarface" Capone, and the "Birdman" Robert Stroud helped to establish the island's notoriety. To this day, Alcatraz is best known as one of the world's most legendary prisons.
Many people, though, are unaware of the wealth of other stories to be learned on the island. Alcatraz is now home to rare flowers and plants, marine wildlife, and thousands of roosting and nesting sea birds. Civil War-era buildings dotting the island give insight into the 19th century when the island served as both a harbor defense fort and a military prison. You can also see visible reminders of the American Indian Occupation that started in 1969 after the prison closed, highlighting an important milestone in the American Indian rights movement.
Come experience the beauty, history and infamy of Alcatraz on the San Francisco Bay. You'll be astounded by what you learn and see.
Ride on the Hornblower Hybrid to Alcatraz and Angel Island
If you choose the Alcatraz & Angel Island Combination Tour, you will not only see two amazing sites, but you will travel on the new Hornblower Hybrid, the first hybrid ferry in the United States. This vessel is a working demonstration of alternative energy in operation, utilizing wind, solar, electricity and diesel electric.
