When it operated as a federal prison from 1943 to 1963, Alcatraz housed gangster Al Capone and a number of other hardened criminals, many who unsuccessfully attempted escape over the years via the chilly, choppy waters of the San Francisco Bay. Today it’s a museum that offers a truly captivating tour complete with sound effects that recreate the prison days. But the journey to Alcatraz is just as entertaining. The only way to get there is by ferry, which the kids will love this short ride across the bay. Alcatraz is open every day of the year, except for Christmas and New Year’s, with tours starting most days at 9 a.m. Different packages are available but the typical cost for a ferry/tour combo is $41 for adults, $34.50 for seniors, $36 for teens and $26 for children under $12.