San Francisco: Alcatraz Island & Chinatown Walking Tour

Exploring the iconic sights of San Francisco just got more enticing with the captivating Alcatraz Island and Chinatown Walking Tour. For just $99 per person, you’ll embark on a 4-hour adventure that takes you from the infamous former prison to the vibrant heart of Chinatown. With a compelling audio tour and a guided walk through the district’s rich cultural landmarks, this tour promises an unparalleled immersion in the city’s history and diversity. Don’t miss the chance to uncover the secrets and treasures that await you.

Key Points

• This 4-hour tour offers a visit to Alcatraz Island with an audio tour and a guided walking tour of San Francisco’s Chinatown.
• The tour is priced at $99 per person and covers transportation, Alcatraz admission, and the Chinatown walking tour.
• The Alcatraz visit features a 45-minute audio tour available in 11 languages, highlighting the island’s history and notorious inmates.
• The Chinatown walking tour lasts 60 minutes and provides insights into the neighborhood’s rich culture and iconic sites.
• Participants must redeem their vouchers at the Big Bus Tours Visitor Center at least 24 hours before the Alcatraz tour date.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The San Francisco: Alcatraz Island & Chinatown Walking Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of two of the city’s most iconic destinations.

Priced at $99 per person, the 4-hour tour includes a visit to Alcatraz Island with an included cell house audio tour and a guided walking tour of vibrant Chinatown.

Participants will enjoy a 30-minute ferry ride across the San Francisco Bay to reach Alcatraz, where they can learn about the island’s history as a former federal penitentiary.

The Chinatown walking tour provides insights into the area’s rich culture and allows visitors to explore shops, restaurants, and the famous Dragon Gates.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The tour is priced at $99.00 per person and has a non-refundable cancellation policy. This covers the cost of transportation, Alcatraz admission, and the Chinatown walking tour.

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, providing a comprehensive experience exploring Alcatraz Island and the vibrant Chinatown neighborhood.

The tour offers a comprehensive 4-hour experience exploring the renowned Alcatraz Island and the vibrant Chinatown neighborhood.

Guests should redeem their vouchers at the Big Bus Tours Visitor Center in Fisherman’s Wharf at least 24 hours prior to their scheduled Alcatraz visit to secure ferry times and Hop-on Hop-off tickets.

Refunds aren’t available due to the fixed costs associated with the tour and the high demand for Alcatraz access.

Alcatraz Island Highlights

Alcatraz Island holds a notorious reputation as a former federal penitentiary that once housed some of America’s most dangerous criminals. The island’s eerie atmosphere and chilling history captivate visitors. Inmates like Al "Scarface" Capone and Robert Stroud, known as the "Birdman of Alcatraz," were incarcerated here. Guests can explore the island’s cell house and learn about its dark past through a 45-minute audio tour available in 11 languages. Ferries depart every 30-40 minutes, allowing flexibility for visitors to plan their time on the island.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Duration | 45-minute audio tour |

| Languages | 11 languages available |

| Inmates | Al "Scarface" Capone, Robert Stroud |

| Ferries | Depart every 30-40 minutes |

| Atmosphere | Eerie and chilling |

Exploring Chinatown

After exploring the infamous Alcatraz Island, visitors can discover the vibrant Chinatown neighborhood on a guided walking tour.

The 60-minute experience is led by a local expert, who shares insights into the area’s rich history and must-see locations.

Visitors will marvel at the stunning Dragon Gates and bustling markets, where they can enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of this unique cultural enclave.

The tour also provides an opportunity to try authentic Asian cuisine and explore the neighborhood’s shops and businesses after the guided portion concludes.

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Immersive Audio Tour

| Audio Tour Features | |

| — | — |

| Duration | 45 minutes |

| Languages | 11 |

| Highlights | Cell house, exercise yard |

| Notable Inmates | Al Capone, Robert Stroud |

Vibrant Dragon Gates

The vibrant Dragon Gates mark the entrance to San Francisco’s bustling Chinatown.

These iconic landmarks feature intricate, colorful designs and represent the gateway to the neighborhood’s rich Chinese culture.

As part of the walking tour, visitors will marvel at the stunning architecture and symbolism of the Dragon Gates.

They’ll learn about the history and significance of these impressive structures, which serve as both physical and cultural entry points to the lively streets and alleys of Chinatown.

Exploring the Dragon Gates provides a captivating introduction to the vibrant and dynamic heart of this unique San Francisco destination.

Logistics and Meeting Point

To redeem their vouchers, tour participants should head to the Big Bus Tours Visitor Center located at 99 Jefferson Street in Fisherman’s Wharf.

The Chinatown walking tour departs at 1:00 PM from 329 Columbus Ave, and guests should exchange their voucher at least 24 hours prior to their scheduled Alcatraz date to receive their ferry time and Hop-on Hop-off tickets.

Chinatown walking tour departs at 1:00 PM from 329 Columbus Ave. Exchange voucher 24 hours before Alcatraz date to receive ferry time and Hop-on Hop-off tickets.

• The meeting point for the Chinatown walking tour is 329 Columbus Ave.

• Vouchers must be exchanged at least 24 hours before the Alcatraz tour date.

• Participants will receive their ferry time and Hop-on Hop-off tickets upon voucher exchange.

Getting the Most From Your Tour

With the logistics and meeting point details covered, visitors can now focus on getting the most from their San Francisco walking tour.

To maximize the experience, arrive early and allow ample time to explore Alcatraz Island and Chinatown. Fully immerse in the audio tour and don’t rush through the sites.

In Chinatown, follow the local guide’s recommendations for the best shops and eateries. Be sure to try authentic Asian cuisine and browse the vibrant markets.

Finally, wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers to prepare for the Bay Area’s changeable weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Pictures During the Alcatraz Audio Tour?

Visitors can take pictures during the Alcatraz audio tour, but photography isn’t allowed in the cellhouse. Guides encourage guests to capture the island’s stunning views and historical sites, while respecting the prison’s rules.

Is the Chinatown Walking Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The Chinatown walking tour is generally suitable for young children. It provides a lively, educational experience exploring the neighborhood’s shops, restaurants, and historic sites. However, the tour’s length and pace may not be ideal for very young or restless kids.

Can I Purchase Food or Souvenirs on Alcatraz Island?

Yes, visitors can purchase food and souvenirs on Alcatraz Island. The island has a small gift shop and café where guests can buy snacks, drinks, and Alcatraz-themed souvenirs during their visit.

Is There an Option to Extend the Chinatown Walking Tour?

There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the Chinatown walking tour. The tour is a set 60-minute guided experience, though visitors can explore Chinatown further on their own after the tour concludes.

Can I Bring My Own Headphones for the Alcatraz Audio Tour?

Yes, visitors can bring their own headphones for the Alcatraz audio tour. This allows them to enjoy the tour at their own pace and without the need to use the provided headsets.

The Sum Up

This San Francisco tour offers an enriching experience, exploring the historic Alcatraz Island and the vibrant Chinatown neighborhood. With a captivating audio tour and guided walking exploration, visitors can enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in the island’s infamous past or the unique flavors and sights of Chinatown, this tour provides an unforgettable and well-rounded San Francisco adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: