Alcatraz guides and stories

Everyone should visit Alcatraz at least once. Known as an inescapable fortress, the island served as a federal penitentiary from 1934-1963 and housed some of the country’s most notorious criminals. Today, it’s a National Historic Landmark operated by the National Park Service.

As far as historic federal penitentiaries go, Alcatraz probably tops the list for most infamous — so for many, an Alcatraz Night Tour sounds not only educational but thrilling. What would it be like to tour this island at night? That’s exactly what I’ll share in this guide.

For nearly 30 years, the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, off the coast of San Francisco, was America’s most infamous maximum-security prison. Ever heard of Al “Scarface” Capone? Or George “Machine Gun” Kelly? Both did time on Alcatraz Island.

Alcatraz Island is famous for the harsh, rugged landscape that inspired the construction of one of the most notorious prisons ever constructed. But less well-known is that even with the incredibly inhospitable terrain, a not-to-be-missed aspect of the Rock are the gorgeous gardens that have been cultivated there for over a hundred years– a fascinating and beautiful remnant from bygone days.

Local birders and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world know that the island is an incomparable haven for our feathered friends. It’s the place to go in San Francisco if you’re interested in birdwatching, whether you’re a novice birder or have dozens of expeditions under your belt.