I need details on seeing Alcatraz
 

I am going to SF in August to visit my son. Is there a place online where I can order reservations or tickets to see Alactraz?

Is it less crowded on a Monday than a weekend day?

My son has a car - is there parking at the ferry terminal? Do we need separate reservations for the ferry? Is there usually a long wait?

Any tips appreciated to make the trip to Alcatraz easier. Thanks!

There are many websites online where you can order Alcatraz tickets. The problem we had last year was finding one that sold the Alcatraz tour "by itself", rather than in combination with a city tour (which I had done before). The ferry ride to Alcatraz is included in the tour ticket, and the whole thing was only about $13-14 per person. Although there was a long line to get on the boat, you can watch the sea lions while you are waiting on the dock (maybe 15 min.), and you WILL get on the boat leaving at the time specified on your tickets. I can't tell you about parking, because we walked from our hotel at the Wharf to the departure point, but I would expect it to be less crowded on a weekday. Be sure you wear a wrap, because the ferry ride and especially "The Rock" were very, very windy. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be going up and down concrete ramps. Be sure to heed the tourguides' advice about "watching your step". There are cracks in the sidewalk where you can easily hang your foot and fall (like I did). Also, be prepared to see more BIRD POOP than you have ever seen in your life. :) It's a great tour. Have fun!

The Blue and Gold Fleet operate the Alcatraz ferries and tours for the National Park Service. You can call them directly at (415)705-5555 to purchase tickets in advance or you can buy them on their website. The ferry leaves from Pier 41 and you can park at the garage across the street from Pier 39. You should definitely buy your tickets in advance because they are almost always sold out if you wait until the day you plan to visit. I also think that there are always crowds because San Francisco attracts visitors from all over the world all the time. You hear so many different languages when you're walking around Fisherman's Wharf.

If you can take public transit, do so as parking can get pretty pricey in the Wharf.
Like Merilee says, order the tickets prior. Just remeber that the tickets are non-refundable so be sure the date you select is the day you are going. Also be sure to get the audio tour--very good!!!

In August, just about every day will be crowded.

I don't know if they still do it, but my husband and I went at night. It was really neat. We even took the special tour of the kitchen and saw the demonstration of how the cell doors worked. I agree that you should get the audio tour. Have a great time!

My wife and I just purchased advance tickets over the internet for the night tour in July. However, after just reading a recent SF thread on SF's fog, and reading that it starts rolling in around 5 or 6pm, I'm wondering if that was such a wise move in terms of what will be visible for picture taking either on the ferry ride over or even while you're on "the Rock" itself. Any comments?

Bring a jacket or sweater and dress "well" - not the "US tourist" shorts, t shirt and white shoes.
I thought Alcatraz very depressing, but would not miss a visit if you have never seen a Max Security facility with great historical significance.
M

Ditto on the audio tour; you just don't get the full effect without it. SF is a yearly visit for us and each year we always visit the "Rock". Although the audio tour is the same on several ocassions there have been ex-convicts on the island doing promoting their book or giving a talk. If you happen to go when one of them are there it is an extra bonus. They are very informative and you honestly can't get a better first hand account. Do remember a jacket becuse even in the summer it can get chilly to down right cold. Also, when you depart the ferry there is a 1/4 mile walk to the prison that has a slight incline going up. Enjoy!

No one has mentioned getting with the National Park ranger for a "personal" tour. Most of the "red necks" (80% of those there on our "boat") had no interest, but I loved it.
As I recall, it's free, but slow.
The ancient Lady we followed (my age) was great, and had lots of undisclosed info.
Be prepared to walk a bunch!
M