From SF: Alcatraz Day Tour, Muir Woods Visit & Wine Tasting

Explore the wonders of San Francisco with this two-day adventure. Enjoy the rich history of Alcatraz Island, marvel at the towering redwoods of Muir Woods, and indulge in the renowned wine country. This comprehensive tour offers a seamless experience, allowing you to make the most of your time in the Bay Area. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this excursion promises to unveil the city’s most captivating sights and experiences. Prepare to be captivated as you delve deeper into the hidden gems that make San Francisco truly unforgettable.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Wine Tours In San Francisco.

Key Points

• This 2-day tour from San Francisco offers an immersive experience exploring Alcatraz Island, Muir Woods, and Sonoma Valley wine tasting.
• The tour package includes a guided Alcatraz Cellhouse tour, entrance to the Aquarium of the Bay, and transportation to Muir Woods and Sonoma.
• Visitors can marvel at the stunning views of San Francisco’s landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, during the boat tour.
• The tour provides an opportunity to discover the rich marine life at the Aquarium of the Bay and hike through the serene Muir Woods National Monument.
• The wine tasting experience in Sonoma Town Square allows guests to savor award-winning wines from Napa and Sonoma Valley under the guidance of a knowledgeable wine expert.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Alcatraz Day Tour & Muir Woods Visit is priced at $279.00 per person and spans 2 days.

Participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The first day includes a narrated boat tour around Alcatraz Island, a guided Doing Time: The Alcatraz Cellhouse Tour, and entry to The Aquarium of the Bay.

The second day features a visit to Muir Woods National Monument, a lunch in historic Sonoma Town Square, and a curated wine tasting tour in Napa and Sonoma Valley.

The tour includes a guide, transportation, Alcatraz and Muir Woods entry fees, and wine tastings.

Alcatraz Island and Cellhouse Tour

On the first day, participants embark on a narrated boat tour around the historic Alcatraz Island.

The tour takes them to the infamous prison, where they’ll explore the Cellhouse on a guided "Doing Time: The Alcatraz Cellhouse Tour." This immersive experience allows visitors to step inside the cells and learn about the island’s notorious past as a federal penitentiary.

Along the way, they’ll witness the stunning views of the San Francisco skyline and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

After the Alcatraz tour, participants can visit The Aquarium of the Bay to discover the diverse marine life of the San Francisco Bay.

Views of San Francisco Landmarks

As participants journey across the waters, they behold the stunning vistas of San Francisco’s iconic landmarks.

The tour boat offers breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, its striking red towers spanning the strait. In the distance, the city skyline rises, a tapestry of modern skyscrapers and historic architecture.

Participants can gaze upon the legendary Alcatraz Island, once home to a notorious federal penitentiary, now a symbol of the city’s rich history.

Throughout the narrated tour, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural significance that define San Francisco’s unique character.

The Aquarium of the Bay

Upon disembarking the Alcatraz tour boat, guests head to The Aquarium of the Bay, located just steps away on Pier 39.

This immersive aquarium offers a chance to get up close with the diverse marine life of San Francisco Bay. Visitors can stroll through underwater tunnels, watching schools of playful sharks and rays glide overhead.

Exhibits showcase the bay’s native species, from the sleek leopard shark to the reclusive Pacific octopus. The aquarium also houses a touch pool, allowing guests to gently interact with bat rays and small sharks.

With its engaging displays and hands-on experiences, The Aquarium of the Bay provides an exciting conclusion to the Alcatraz portion of the tour.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Muir Woods National Monument

Nestled within the rolling hills of Marin County, Muir Woods National Monument stands as a serene oasis of majestic redwood trees.

Visitors can explore miles of well-maintained trails, surrounded by the towering ancient giants that can reach heights of up to 250 feet.

The monument offers a chance to:

• Bask in the tranquility of this old-growth forest
• Spot diverse wildlife, including deer, birds, and banana slugs
• Admire the intricate interplay of light and shadow
• Gain a deeper appreciation for the park’s rich ecological significance

After the Muir Woods visit, the tour continues to the historic Sonoma Town Square for a leisurely lunch.

Exploring Historic Sonoma Town Square

After exploring the ancient redwood forest of Muir Woods, the tour leads visitors to the historic Sonoma Town Square.

This charming plaza is the heart of Sonoma, where guests can stroll along the quaint streets, browse local shops, and enjoy a leisurely lunch.

The square is surrounded by 19th-century adobe buildings, Mission-style architecture, and plenty of restaurants and cafes.

Visitors can soak up the laidback, small-town atmosphere and get a taste of Northern California’s wine country culture.

With free time to explore, the Sonoma Town Square offers a delightful respite before the wine tasting portion of the day.

Curated Wine Tasting Experience

Following the leisurely lunch and exploration of Sonoma Town Square, the tour moves on to the highlight of the day – the curated wine tasting experience.

Participants will be treated to two carefully selected flights of wine tastings from the renowned Napa and Sonoma Valley vineyards. The tour guide will provide insights into the region’s rich winemaking history and guide visitors through the tasting notes.

Guests can expect:

• A personalized tasting experience led by a knowledgeable guide
• Samples of award-winning red and white wines
• Opportunities to learn about the winemaking process
• Time to savor the flavors and discuss the unique characteristics of each varietal

Important Tour Information

Although participants must make their own way to Pier 33 for the Alcatraz ferry, the tour provider offers transportation to and from the Muir Woods and wine tasting portion of the tour.

The Alcatraz tour date is chosen during booking, and the Muir Woods and wine tour follows the next day. A valid government-issued ID is required to collect the Alcatraz tickets, and the full names of all guests are needed for ticket issuance.

The tour provider may modify or cancel tours due to participation, vehicle issues, or weather conditions.

The face value of the Alcatraz ticket is $45.25, which is included in the tour price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but it’s important to follow any regulations or restrictions set by the tour operator. Consuming alcohol during the tour may also be limited or prohibited.

What Is the Tour Group Size?

The tour group size is not explicitly stated, but is typically small to medium-sized. Most group tours range from 10-30 participants, allowing for a personalized experience while accommodating a reasonable number of guests.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Yes, the tour offers discounts for seniors and students. Seniors aged 65 and over can receive a 10% discount, while students with valid ID can get a 5% discount off the regular tour price.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Activity?

The tour allocates 1.5 hours for the Alcatraz cellhouse tour, over 1.5 hours to explore Muir Woods, and curated wine tastings in Napa and Sonoma Valley. Participants have free time to explore Sonoma Town Square as well.

Can I Customize the Tour to Focus on Certain Activities?

This tour offers a pre-set itinerary, but customers can’t customize the activities. However, they can choose the Alcatraz tour date during booking. The tour provider may modify or cancel activities due to circumstances beyond their control.

Recap

This two-day adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the best of San Francisco. From the captivating history of Alcatraz Island to the serene beauty of Muir Woods, and the renowned wine country of Napa and Sonoma, this tour delivers a comprehensive and unforgettable exploration of the region’s iconic landmarks and natural wonders. It’s a must-do experience for anyone seeking to enjoy the rich culture and stunning landscapes of the Bay Area.

You can check if your dates are available here: