Day 11 - Escape from Alcatraz

So it was up and at 'em early today. We had to drive to Fisherman's Wharf to get our tickets to Alcatraz and then be in line for our 9:10 departure to the island.  We managed to get ready soon enough for a quick breakfast at McDonalds and then off to the city.

We were successful in finding a great parking lot directly across from Pier 33.  Once again it was quite chilly so we were glad to have the right clothing. These people know exactly what to do with tourists such as us--stick a camera out there--they will pay out like crazy for a picture! We thoroughly enjoyed our audio tour of the prison and grounds. Also there were such wonderful views of the bay area from Alcatraz.

After our return trip we browsed the shops of Pier 39. You could find just about anything there. We had lunch at the Wipe Out Bar and Grill and all of a sudden noticed that the sun was out for the first time since coming so we found the car and drove over the Golden Gate Bridge. It was spectacular. Continuing on to Vista Point we discovered an area to take pictures of San Francisco and upon leaving there we drove through the town of Sausalito.

We decided to make it an early evening so we quickly drove through Golden Gate Park and then to Twin Peaks, which was a nightmare! Winding roads up the hill just to get a picture that we could probably buy on a postcard for 50 cents!!!!!! Yikes. Diane and Kathy earned another meal for this one since Carol was just about in the floorboard the whole way.

Our evening ahead sounds very exciting; planning for our last full day in San Francisco and washing clothes! WooHoo!

Before loading the ferry to Alcatraz.

Arriving at the island.

Inside the cell blocks.

Golden Gate bridge faintly in the background.

Escape from Alcatraz.

Fake heads were used to trick the guards.

Driving over the Golden Gate bridge.

Waterfall in Golden Gate Park.

Looking down from the top of Twin Peaks.