Alcatraz is definetly a place to visit while you are in San Francisco. The boat ride is about 10-15 minutes with spectacular views of the city on one side then an awe inspiring circle of the the island until you land at the entrance, take many pictures as you circle the island it's really cool. It was amazing to walk through the prison as well as actaully stand in a prison. The closing of the cell doors was thought provoking. The head phone tour very infomative. Take the evening tour You get to see the city in the day light and then returning you get to see the lights of the city, very cool.