Visit the Gardens of Alcatraz

Getting to the Island

The island is open to visitors every day year-round except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Although there is not an entrance fee, there is a charge for the ferry service, supplied by a private company under contract to the National Park Service. For additional information on schedules, prices, parking, and to purchase tickets in advance (tickets are made available about 90 days in advance) please visit the Alcatraz City Cruises website. Alcatraz frequently sells out, as much as a week in advance, in summer and near holidays.

When to Visit

The best time to visit the Gardens of Alcatraz is from January to September, and especially in the spring. The gardens are open for viewing, however, all year round. The weather can be unpredictable so be prepared for wind, cold, or rain. For more information on the island’s weather, click here.

Download the Self-Guiding Brochure

The Garden of Alcatraz brochure (PDF) is available at a few locations on the island. It is also distributed to participants of the docent-led tours. The brochure is also available in French.

If we are all our own jailers and prisoners of our traits, then I am grateful for my introduction to the spade and the trowel, the seed and the spray can. They have given me a lasting interest in creativity.”

Elliott Michener, Alcatraz inmate, 1941-1950