Explore Alcatraz Island and the Aquarium by the Bay on the first day. The next day, escape the crowds and explore the stunning wilderness of Yosemite National Park.
EXPERIENCE:
Discover the notorious former federal prison of Alcatraz in San Francisco Bay and enjoy the award winning audio tour. Then, spend the next day in the glorious surroundings of Yosemite Park.
First, enjoy a narrated boat tour around Alcatraz Island before docking. Then, take the guided “Doing Time: The Alcatraz Cellhouse Tour” from the dock to the main prison building.
The next day, escape the crowds of the city center, and drive to Yosemite National Park. Head east across the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, and enjoy great views of the San Francisco skyline, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Drive through Central Valley, stopping at a fruit stand to try some local produce.
Pass fruit orchards and nut farms, before entering the rolling foothills of the Sierra Nevadas. Continue into the mountains to California’s gold rush town of Groveland. Once inside Yosemite National Park, take a 1.5-hour narrated tour of the glaciated valley in c coach. See waterfalls and rock formations, including Yosemite Falls, North America’s tallest waterfall.
Continue past El Capitan, Half Dome, Bridalveil Falls, and Sentinel Dome, pausing at great vantage points, such as Inspiration Point, for panoramic views. Stop for the afternoon near the base of Yosemite Falls. If you have not already picked up picnic supplies, there are many options for getting lunch in the park. You will have 3-4 hours of free time to explore the valley as you choose.
Walk to the base of Yosemite Falls, visit the Ansel Adams Gallery, stop in at the Ahwahnee Hotel, or rent a cruiser bike. Alternatively, hike some of the trails that originate from the valley.
Your tour includes entrance to The Aquarium of the Bay which you may use at a time of your choosing.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
Visit Alcatraz Island
Visit San Francisco’s underwater neighbors at the Aquarium of the Bay
Enjoy a fully guided tour of Yosemite Valley by coach
Take advantage of the photo opportunities from Tunnel View
View the breathtaking Bridalveil Fall
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