I am interested in taking a tour of Alcatrez and the top spots to see in San Francisco via a tour company. What is the best tour company to use in San Francisco. I will be traveling with my husband and 12 year old daughter. Also, it the Westin St. Francis a good hotel to stay at while in town? Thanks!!

The Westin St. Francis is in a great location--good choice of hotel. You will need to book Alcatraz directly with Blue and Gold. Starting January 1, 2005 no tour company can sell tickets to Alcatraz.

Thank you so much for the information. I will book via Blue and Gold on line.

Good advice so far. Get a transit pass at the Tourist Information Office located near your hotel--Market and Powell. It's good for unlimited rides on the cable cars, busses, and trolleys. It is also a good idea to buy a transit map, available at the same office.

Hi, My family 3 adults, 3 kids ages (14,12,8) spent a few days in S.F. last April. We stayed at the Hotel Triton near Chinatown gate.The hotel was great.Rooms were tiny,but nicely decorated.They had a continental breakfast and a wine and cheese hour everyday included in rate. We loved the Alcatraz tour and also did a VAMPIRE TOUR in the evening. It was quirky and fun,but we weren't looking for an ordinary tour.