Going to San Fran in Mid Oct. with kids
ages l0, l3, l6 and l7. Should we
visit Alcatraz After Dark, or day?
Know we need to book ahead, so am
anxiously awaiting some advice.

go to www.nps.gov/alcatraz for the answer (hint: closes 4:30 p.m.)

seems the only reason to do the much more expensive evening alcatrez ($30 vs $13 in the day /pp) is to catch the sunset and be more spookied ... we went on a lovely sunny day, and it was very nice. i wouldn't want to spend my evening alcatrazing - just an opinion. ps: don't forget to take the kids to see the seals at peir 39 next to the alcatraz docks - they're great!

We did the daytime tour. I didn't think they had a night tour at Alcatraz...hmmm....but I would not want to be there when its dark out. Especially if you have kids young kids. Its eerie enough being there in the day, and it is already dark inside the buildings. If the sunset and great views is what you want, there are numerous tours and boat cruises around there. Go down to Fishermans Wharf and to Pier 39 to find out more info.

We took the "night" tour which was actually just the last tour of the day. It was bright when we got there but as we went on the ferry going back the sun was starting to set and it was just a beautiful view of the city.