Alcatraz Reopens Today (Friday)!

Weather was dicey yesterday anyway. Today will be sunnier, no rain, but quite breezy so wear a jjacket if you go. Been unsually poor weather for October, but looks to improve starting today. October has historically been our very best month weatherwise.

Note: America's most famous criminal will not be at Alcatraz as an inmate anytime soon.

Alcatraz Island is reopening today, which is great news for visitors eager to explore the historic site. The weather today is expected to be sunnier than yesterday, though it will be quite breezy, so wearing a jacket is recommended.

October is generally one of the best months to visit San Francisco in terms of weather, with clearer skies and milder temperatures. The recent poor weather has been unusual for this time of year, but conditions should improve for your visit today.

When planning your trip to Alcatraz, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Dress in layers due to windy conditions on the island.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes; the island has uneven terrain and steep paths.
  • Consider booking ferry tickets in advance as Alcatraz tours are popular and can sell out, especially on sunny days.

Other helpful information for visitors:

  • The island features audio tours of the cellhouse, which provide an engaging historical narrative.
  • Allow at least 2–3 hours for the visit to explore the prison, gardens, and exhibits fully.
  • Check ferry departure times from Pier 33 to plan your day efficiently.

Finally, while Alcatraz is famous for its former inmates, including some of the country’s most notorious criminals, it is now a museum and educational site, so you won’t encounter any actual prisoners during your visit.


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