10 Fun Things to Do When Alcatraz Tickets are Sold Out

Sightseeing cruises on the San Francisco Bay depart almost hourly from Fisherman's Wharf, so there's a good chance you can snag a day-of ticket. While you may not be able to set foot on Alcatraz, most bay cruises pass very near the island for a look at the storied cellblock and water tower. Plus, you can sail beneath the Golden Gate Bridge for a unique look at the famous span’s underbelly.

There's no ticket needed to see one of San Francisco's most enduring attractions—the colony of wild California sea lions that reliably congregate on the floating marina docks at Pier 39. Look for the marine mammals lounging in the sun, splashing around, and barking on the west side of the pier. A hop-on hop-off bus tour allows you to stop by this popular sea lion–watching spot before exploring more of the city.

For even more marine life encounters, snag admission tickets to the Aquarium of the Bay, also located at Pier 39. With views overlooking the San Francisco Bay and interactive exhibits that are a favorite with families, it's home to more than 20,000 animals. Don't miss the giant Pacific octopus, adorable river otters, and entrancing jellyfish.

With street musicians, buskers, caricature artists, and midway games, the vibe along Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39 is that of an open-air carnival—one bet enjoyed on a walking tour. Most street performances are free, though tips are always appreciated, and kids will especially love the hand-painted San Francisco Carousel, the Frequent Flyers bungee trampoline, and Magowan’s Infinite Mirror Maze.

At the San Francisco outpost of the world-famous wax museum, you can fill your Instagram story with photo ops alongside dozens of lifelike figures, from local sports hero Steph Curry to pop icons including Lady Gaga and Beyoncé. Score a discount at Madame Tussauds with attraction passes such as the Go San Francisco Pass or grab a general admission ticket on the day.

Farther west along Fisherman's Wharf, you’ll find the heritage red-brick complex that's home to the original Ghirardelli chocolate shop. While the factory has since moved elsewhere, you can still stock up on the full range of Ghirardelli treats and savor deliciously rich desserts such as the world-famous hot fudge sundae or decadent hot cocoa on a private Fisherman’s Wharf tour.

If you can’t get tickets to Alcatraz, splurge on a helicopter flightseeing tour and marvel over the island from above instead. Not only will you get a new perspective on the Golden Gate Bridge, you’ll also be able to spot Fisherman’s Wharf, the Marin Headlands, and Angel Island.

Bordering Aquatic Park to the east, Hyde Street Pier is the permanent home of five vintage vessels with ties to San Francisco. It's free to admire the ships from the pier, although you can also buy tickets to step on board three of them, including the 1886 square-rigger Balclutha. Ranger-led tours offer a wealth of detail on the ships’ history, while many segway excursions also include a stop at the pier.

If you follow the Embarcadero east of Pier 39, you’ll reach the historic Ferry Building. Once a bustling transit hub for commuter ferries, today the landmark is better known as one of San Francisco's favorite foodie destinations. Come hungry and try local specialties such as Acme sourdough bread, Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt. Tam cheese, fresh-shucked seafood at Hog Island Oyster Company, and a perfect drip from Blue Bottle Coffee.

Another quintessential San Francisco experience, this one is always available. If you have a car, pay a small toll to drive across the iconic rust-colored span, stopping at the Vista Point on the north end of the bridge to gaze out at Alcatraz and the city skyline. Bike tours also depart right from Fisherman's Wharf, or you can walk across the bridge for free.