Alcatraz Island is the well known and most interesting place in San Francisco. This place is situated in the centre of San Francisco Bay and is known for its old federal prison. Most of the harmful criminals stayed in this jail in the past. Now, more than thousands of people visit there every year and they learn their history, stories of the prisoners and guards, and they enjoy the view of the bay. Visiting there is not only about seeing an old jail, but also about knowing its past and feeling the area of the place. Now in this guide we will try to explain everything which you need to know about the place and its help to manage your trip smoothly.
Where Is Alcatraz Island Located?
Alcatraz Island is situated in San Francisco Bay, around the 1.25 miles from the San Francisco shoreline. You can easily see this place from so many well known spots such as Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, and many more. This island is isolated because of their cold water and high current around it. This isolation plays an important role to make this place the most safe prison in the United States. Now, all the travellers come here by ferry, which is operated from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing and they enjoy themselves there.
History of Alcatraz Island
The history of this island is wide and memorable. Before becoming a prison, this island served many purposes for many years. In the middle of the 1800s, this place was used as a military fort and later as a military prison. Because of its area, it helps to protect San Francisco Bay during the Gold Rush time.
After that in 1934, the island became a federal prison, which is well designed to hold inmates who caused trouble in other prisons. Well known criminals like AI Capone, George “Machine Gun” Kelly, and Robert Stroud were held here. This prison was known for its hard rules and conditions, that is the reason why this is also known as “The Rock”.
This prison was closed in 1963 because of its high prices and infrastructure. After that this became an icon of Native American activism during the 1969 occupation. Nowadays, this island is under the eye of the National Park service and it is famous as a historic sport and famous tourist attraction.
Why Is Alcatraz Island So Famous?
There are many reasons to make this place so famous. Firstly, it was considered an escape proof prison because of its freezing water, powerful currents, and distance from the island. Second is that the prison held some of the harmful criminals in American history. Third one is the dramatic escape attempt in 1962 by Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers included to its mystery.
On the other hand from its prison history, this place is also known for its beauty. The island provides the memorable view of the San Francisco skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and the around the bay. Its combination of history, beauty, mystery, make this place a must visiting spot for all the travelers.
How to Book Alcatraz Island Tickets
If you are planning your trip to visit Alcatraz Island, then make sure that you first book your ticket in advance, by official sites, because during the peak time the tickets will be sold out quickly, especially in summer or holidays. The only official ticket provided is Alcatraz city cruises.
Tickets usually include:
- Round trip ferry service from Pier 33
- Self guided audio tour of the prison cellhouse
- Access to all open areas of the island
Night trips and special off site scene tours are also available and provide a different experience. It is always said to book tickets online from the official source to avoid the scams or overpriced sales.
Best Time to Visit Alcatraz Island
Mainly spring and fall are a good choice because of the calm climate condition, and the fewer people, so there you can easily explore all the places without any hassle. Summer is the busiest time, with the high queues and fully booked trips, but at that time the climate conditions are usually best for exploring.
Morning trips are good to explore the island calmly. Night trips provide a different experience, with less people and the beautiful evening views of San Francisco. The climate will change quickly, so make sure to wear or carry a jacket with you.
How to Reach Alcatraz Island
You may take the ferry, if you want to go to Alcatraz Island. This ride will start from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing, which is near the Fisherman’s Wharf. It is informed that you arrive at the point before the scheduled time.
The ride takes less time and you may enjoy the ride very well. During the ride, you can see the view of the bay, and sea birds. You may arrive there around 15 minutes, so after arriving you all are free to explore the place by yourself.
What to Expect During the Alcatraz Tour
You are free to explore Alcatraz Island without any interruption. The main point is the audio tour inside the cellhouse, which is narrated by inmates and guards. Their real voices show the prison’s history to life.
There you can walk over the cell blocks, and see the solitary confinement cells, also you explore the dining area, and learn about prisoner life.
Famous Escape Stories from Alcatraz
The most talked about aspect of Island is its escape stories. The well known escape attempt happened in 1962, when Frank Morris and brother John and Clarence Anglin escaped using the handmade tools.
This mystery makes the excitement level up to the Alcatraz experience and makes all the travelers to visit to create an unforgettable experience.
Wildlife and Nature on Alcatraz Island
This place is not just about the history, but it is the main point of diverse wildlife. This Island provides a nesting ground for the seabirds such as gulls and cormorants. If you are nature lovers, then this place is a good choice for you. There you learn about plant life, and know the history of the place.
Important Tips Before Visiting Alcatraz Island
Before visiting this island, keep these important tips in mind.
- Book tickets early to avoid the hassle.
- Always carry comfortable shoes for a comfortable walk
- Carry a light jacket because their climate condition will change.
- Follow ferry schedules carefully
- Bring a camera for beautiful views
These tips will be important and you have to know before the trip.
Is Alcatraz Island Worth Visiting?
Yes, Alcatraz Island is surely the must visiting spot for all, especially those who love to learn or explore the history, and stories. This place is not just an old prison, it is an icon of America’s past, which is fully filled with some emotions of inmates, guards and escape attempts. You may walk over to the cellhouse and listen to the audio tour, which makes you feel directly connected with the real events that happened here.
On the other side, in this place you will also enjoy the amazing view of San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge and the skyline, which make your trip more memorable. Whether you are visiting San Francisco for the very first time or a place to visit there again then, Alcatraz Island gives you an unforgettable experience, which is totally worth it.
Final Thoughts
Alcatraz Island is the must visit spot for all the travelers to San Francisco. It provides a perfect combination of the history, mystery and views of the place and bay. Just explore the prison cells, and listen to the real stories over the audio tour, and learn about the well known escape attempts, which make the visit truly memorable. If you are planning to visit San Francisco then make sure to visit Alcatraz Island once.