Everything You Need to Know About Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz is a small island situated at the entrance of San Francisco Bay and has a long history of use and notoriety. Built as a military post in the mid-19^th century, it evolved into a high-security federal prison for some of America’s worst offenders. Today, Alcatraz is an amazing place to visit and is presenting itself as an interesting travel site.

 

It is widely recommended that tourists interested in history and crime, or anyone who wants something different, should give Alcatraz Island a shot. People can watch videos of ex-detainees and guards and discover the escape stories that enthralled the entire country just by sitting in the barbed-wire cellblocks on this island.

 

 

Fascinating History of Alcatraz Island –

 

Alcatraz Island has a great and very interesting history. The fort was originally built in the mid-1800s for military use as a defense fortification of the San Francisco Bay.  It could be located strategically and has the appropriate natural barriers to serve safety purposes. Subsequently, it became a military pen, accommodating military personnel involved in one misconduct or the other.

 

Two years later in 1934, another transition occurred as Alcatraz joined one of the most notorious federal penitentiaries for any given state in the entire United States. Radioactive water, the inability to approach the island due to strong currents, and low temperatures of the surrounding sea made attempts of an evacuation nearly impossible, thus it was named ‘The Rock’. The prison was home to some of the notorious inmates of America such as Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelly, and Birdman of Alcatraz.

 

 

Overall, it can be said that there exist numerous interesting and dark Alcatraz island history facts which are known as well as unknown to the common public even today. In the past, several attempts to escape the prison were made. In 1962, there was a plot of 3 inmates to escape, they tried to float out of the facility on a homemade raft which was however aborted by the water current.

 

The official account of the end of these inmates cannot be determined because their bodies were never found. Even though the story of the escape attempt remains very vague and unknown, it only adds to the mysticism of the prison and Alcatraz. This became a huge part of the numerous Alcatraz prison cell escape stories and remarked itself in the history of the place.

 

 

How to Get to Alcatraz Island?

 

Ferries that can transport the visitors to Alcatraz are available from the dock that is located at The Embarcadero, Pier 33. This occupies a very busy waterfront and is well connected by different means of transport. The directions to Alcatraz island ferry are varied, however, if you are using a car, there are some car parks within proximity. It is also advised that a better approach is to use the Muni Metro F-line, or an Uber to avoid the agony of parking within the city.

 

It will be wise to book your where to buy Alcatraz tickets last minute or in advance especially during high season so that you will not miss out on the ferry. Tickets for the tour can be bought on the website or on the spot, at the ticket point. The ferry operating timetables change depending on seasons and there is always recent data about these categories.

 

After you get your tickets, go to Pier 33 and come early to sign in and be boarded on the ferry to Alcatraz Island. The boat that takes visitors to and from the lockup of this island presents scenic views of the city and the bay.

 

 

Types of Alcatraz Island Tours –

 

Alcatraz Island is quite fascinating and it has 2 types of tours, namely day and night tours. Full-day tours give the best opportunity for the natural light to be used to sightsee the appealing natural scenes on the island & other historical sites of interest. The night tours can be a little scary as compared to the day tours and that is why people don’t mostly prefer them even today.

 

 

Best Time to Visit Alcatraz Island –

 

Alcatraz island can be visited all year round but depending on your interests, there is a specific best time to visit alcatraz island. To have better and less crowded weather, you should plan a visit for the early spring and late April to early May, or even early autumn/late September to early October.

 

It is also important to visit during these months because they will be much more affordable for you, have better weather, and don’t compete with hordes of tourists for attraction. In case, you don’t want to see crowds, then the best time to go to the park is not during the months of January, February, or March. But, it also means that you should expect rain or fog in these months.

 

 

Must-See Spots and Activities on Alcatraz Island –

 

Below are some must-see spots and must-do activities in alcatraz island that should definitely not be missed by people while they are visiting the place:

 

Must-See Spots:

 

Dining Hall –

 

The Dining Hall used to be the place where prisoners took their meals. In today’s world, that is a bitter and shocking recollection of life in prison. Some of the memories still exist today, you can see the dung for a mess hall and the long tables that everybody used.

 

 

Cell House –

 

Originally called “The Heart of the Prison”, the cell house gives visitors a frozen view of the isolations. Enter the two-chambered, narrow, and dank cells each with their background of distress.

 

Read more about the notarized criminals who spent their time behind the bars of this jail including Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly.

 

 

Recreation Yard –

 

The recreation yard had a restricted area outside the prison where prisoners were allowed to walk and breathe fresh air rarely. In this place, you can imagine the boredom and frustration that the inmates must have been experiencing in this small enclosure.

 

 

Must-Do Activities –

 

Explore the Island’s Natural Beauty –

 

Go for a walk and explore the natural beauty of this island. Watch a variety of birdlife as well as seals and penguins from the island.

 

You will also be able to enjoy the fresh breeze and the quiet environment outside.

 

 

Audio Tour –

 

Make your visit even more special using an audio tour as your guide. Learn directly from those who witnessed the events – the practitioners and the prisoners themselves.

 

Get a better understanding of the context of the island inhabitants’ existence as well as their history.

 

Immerse Yourself in the Island’s History –

 

Treat yourself to the attractive museum exhibits and explore the history of the island as the military fortification, lighthouse, and finally the federal prison. Learn about the history of the prisoners and the keepers of this prison colony which gave birth to the crime’s legend.

 

Alcatraz Island vs Angel Island: Which One to Visit?

 

The choice between Alcatraz and Angel Island totally depends on your preference and field of interest. If you are interested in horror, thrill, and crime, then Alcatraz island will be your best choice. Its notorious past as a high-security prison offers a unique and chilling experience.

 

On the other hand, if you prefer a more natural and calm setting, then your option is angel island. It offers stunning views, hiking trails, and a rich history of immigration. So, compare these 2 islands on your own level of interest and then make the appropriate choice for your tour.

 

 

Spooky Side of Alcatraz Island –

 

Alcatraz island, where, in the early and mid 20^th century stood a prison called ‘The Rock’, is soaked with the blood and tears of prisoners. Because of its remote location and hostile environment, people believe that it is one of the most haunted places in America. There exist a lot of haunted stories about alcatraz night tours of this prison which is still alive in its history and will remain the same for a lot of future generations. Both visitors and staff claimed to have seen or felt various forms of paranormal experiences, including sounds, cold breezes, shadows, and voices.

 

This particular year witnessed one of the most brutal acts ever experienced at the prison in which 3 inmates tried to escape. While their corpse has never been identified, their vanishing also helped make the island more creepy. Others say that the ghosts still wander there to this day, looking for the end. Torture, inhumane and unfair treatment of the inmates coupled with too many deaths put a very dire reputation on the energy of the island.

 

 

According to the experience of tourists, certain energy has been left in these cells, for example, the sensation that people are constantly observing them. Other than the myths about undead on the island, the history of the island is a spooky one. Even after so many news and controversies, Alcatraz island is still a tourist attraction. Tourists can take conducted tours, visit the cells, and become acquainted with the history of the island.

 

Things to Know about Alcatraz Island Before Visiting It –

 

Alcatraz Island is really iconic, not only in its appearance but also in its influence on people. However, before personally visiting it based on what they see on the Internet, people should get more information about it and know some important things about the island as well as the process of visiting it.

 

Following are some important things that people should consider before personally visiting the island:

 

Cruciality of Advance Ticket Bookings –

 

Alcatraz island is a very popular place and to prevent it from being too crowded, only limited ticket bookings are available during different seasons. That is why advance booking of your tickets will help you be on the safer side and prevent any kind of trouble that may come your way due to the unavailability of comfortable accommodations.

 

Being Updated about the Weather Conditions –

 

Checking the weather conditions from time to time and being updated about the same is very crucial while touring, especially on an island. Sudden weather changes are not unusual and this can not only damage your prepared plan but can also cause harm to you if the extremities increase. So, being updated with the weather plays a very crucial role.

 

If the above important things are considered properly, then it will be better for people to deal with any sudden trouble or mishappening taking place on the island. Also, this way, they will not have to ask questions like where is alcatraz island located? but can provide people with everything about the place instead.

 

Is it possible for people to suffer from any physical problems while touring Alcatraz Island?

 

Yes. As we know Alcatraz is an island and the weather here is very uncertain. Constant and unpredictable weather changes are not new to this place and that is why people who are not well-prepared suffer from numerous physical problems. So, it is very important to follow all the health precautions given by the tour guides properly and report for return immediately if your condition seems too much out of control while on Alcatraz island to avoid extreme loss of health.

 

Practical Tips for your Alcatraz Island Trip –

 

Below is a list of some practical tips that people should follow during their trips to Alcatraz Island:

 

Dress Appropriately –

 

The weather on Alcatraz Island is warm, especially in the summer months but it is also quite changeable. It is recommended to wear layers and possibly even a light jacket or sweater. This is because it gets a little chilly at times. Along with that, laced shoes are also recommended since there will be many occasions for walking.

 

Arrive Early –

 

With early arrival, there will be ample time to go around the island without meeting many people. You can also take a break and marvel at the great vistas of the San Francisco Bay Bridge as well as the Golden Gate Bridge.

 

 

Book Your Tickets in Advance –

 

Alcatraz Island is a famous tourist attraction, and the tickets can run out in a short period, notably during the height of the season. To ensure you get a chance to travel on the ferry, get your tickets booked as early as possible.

 

Pack Essentials –

 

Do not forget to pack water and lunch, or at the very least snacks & sunblock, if the activity is taking place outdoors. You may also want to wear a hat to avoid exposure to bright sunlight because it can be very hot temperatures outside at times.

 

Bring Headphones –

 

The audio tour is also effective in providing real information about the history of Alcatraz Island. Headphones should not be missing from your list of necessities and should be from your side since they are not offered for free.

 

If the above tips are followed properly, then the results will surely be remarkable. This way, people will be able to enjoy their trips more and get the best out of them to remember lifelong for sure.

 

Frequently Asked Questions –

 

• Is it allowed to swim around the Alcatraz Island?

No, swimming is not allowed throughout the Alcatraz Island. The strong currents and cold weather make swimming extremely dangerous here. Also, the island is part of a national park, and swimming in the waters surrounding is illegal.

 

• How long does it take to complete a tour of Alcatraz Island?

The average tour of this island takes 2-3 hours. It includes both to and fro ferry rides, an audio tour, exploring the prison, and other parts of the island.

 

 

• Are there any restaurants, hotels, or local shops on Alcatraz Island?

There exists no restaurant, hotel, or local shop on Alcatraz Island. That is why it is allowed to bring your own snacks and drinks on this island.

 

• To what extent is Alcatraz Island haunted?

Many people believe that this island is haunted due to its dark history and numerous reported paranormal activities. Yet, there exists no specific evidence to support these claims even today.

 

Conclusion –

To conclude, Alcatraz Island is a very interesting place to explore and visit if you are a lover of some thrill and horror in your life.