Tour Alcatraz Island
Throngs of tourists cross the San Francisco Bay by ferry to tour the infamous Alcatraz Island. The famous landmark is often referred to as "The Rock" - especially after the 1996 film, which recounted a true story of rebellion and possible escape. Serving as a federal prison from 1933 to 1963, the facilities have a storied history before this became a national recreational area. Home to the abandoned prison, the National Historic Landmark has a creepy character when you look back on its shadowy past. In addition to the prison, the island is home to a seabird colony and rock pools. But most people come to see the Main Cellhouse, Dining Hall, and ruins of the Warden's House and Officers Club.
Take the tour, and learn the history of the island dating back to its use as a military garrison in the 1850s. From military prison to Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, the facilities held the nation's most violent and threatening prisoners. Notorious bank robbers and murderers were among the first to arrive, and criminals like Al Capone and Bumpy Johnson spent time here. Fortified by steel and concrete and surrounded by the swift currents of the Bay, the penitentiary had a reputation for being inescapable. It's fascinating to see the structures up close. America's hardest criminals, the men who committed the most gruesome crimes, lived in lockup here. From history to Hollywood, this landmark has captured our collective imagination over the years.
It's a side of San Francisco you won't want to miss while you're sightseeing. You can sign up for a tour online to secure your spot at https://www.alcatrazislandtickets.com/Alcatraz-Day-Tour/. Both day and night tours are available.