We only have 1 1/2 days in San Francisco. We want to visit Alcatraz and have heard that it is essential to prebook. Is this true?

Depends on time of year - we were there in July 3 years ago and even though we had 4 days and total flexibility, were unable to find even one time to get there.

In the end we had to book city bus tour with Alcatraz ticket as part. I think there is a website to prebook on-line. Probably not as much of an issue in off-season.

Yes! We went in July and the line for stand-by tickets was very long. On another occasion, my husband went on a business trip and pre-booked his ticket. A co-worker who did not was not able to go - there were no tickets available.

We were unable to get tickets a day or two before on two separate trips to SF, so we finally booked weeks ahead for another trip. It was reserved for 9/11/2001. Guess what? It got cancelled. We had to rebook for another time -- again ahead of time.

There is a half day tour through Grayline that includes alcatraz as well as a ferry ride and pier tour... well worth it... look at their web site and you can also select other alcatraz plus attractions... plus they pick you up at your hotel...

Husband and I were in SF a few years ago (July). I booked tickets on-line and was glad I did. There was a 2-3 day wait for tickets if you hadn't reserved them in advance. Here is the link: http://www.blueandgoldfleet.com/