Alcatraz Island
About
Located in the cold, swirling waters of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island is a fascinating historic site that once served as a military fortification, a military prison, and most famously, a maximum-security federal penitentiary. Active from 1934 to 1963, "The Rock" housed America's most notorious criminals, including Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelly, and Robert Stroud (the "Birdman of Alcatraz").
Highlights
What makes this place special
The Cellhouse Audio Tour
Walk through the eerie prison corridors while listening to "Doing Time," an incredibly immersive audio guide narrated by actual former inmates and correctional officers.
The Sally Port and historic ruins
Explore the island's military-era fortifications, the ruined Warden’s House, and the oldest operating lighthouse on the West Coast.
The Gardens of Alcatraz
Wander through the surprisingly lush, beautiful gardens restored by volunteers, which were originally planted by officers and inmates to bring life to the harsh island.
Things to Know
- •Ferries and entry tickets sell out weeks or even months in advance; booking early through the official concessionaire (Alcatraz City Cruises) is highly recommended.
- •The island features steep, sloping paved pathways from the dock to the cellhouse, requiring a walk equivalent to climbing a 13-story building, so wear sturdy walking shoes.
- •Weather on the bay is highly unpredictable; pack a warm jacket as the ferry ride and island wind can be extremely chilly.
