Pier 39
Search results
Mar 31, 2024 · Alcatraz Island, also known as ‘The Rock,’ a rocky island in San Francisco Bay, off the coast of California, in the United States. From 1934 to 1963, a facility on the island served as a federal prison for some of the most dangerous civilian prisoners. Learn more about the history of Alcatraz Island here.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Alcatraz Island ( / ˈælkəˌtræz /) is a small island 1.25 miles (2.01 km) offshore from San Francisco, California, United States. [1] The island was developed in the mid-19th century with facilities for a lighthouse, a military fortification, and a military prison. In 1934, the island was converted into a federal prison, Alcatraz Federal ...
- 22 acres (8.9 ha)
- San Francisco, California
- 1934; 89 years ago
People also ask
What is Alcatraz Island known for?
Why should you visit Alcatraz Island in San Francisco?
Where can I find information about Alcatraz Island?
Why is Alcatraz important?
Jan 12, 2024 · Alcatraz reveals stories of American incarceration, justice, and our common humanity. This small island was once a fort, a military prison, and a maximum security federal penitentiary. In 1969, the Indians of All Tribes occupied Alcatraz for 19 months in the name of freedom and Native American civil rights. We invite you to explore Alcatraz's complex history and natural beauty.
Alcatraz was the site of the first lighthouse in the Western United States but became a federal penitentiary from 1934 to 1963, housing famous convicts such as Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly. Now, this once infamous prison island is part of the Bay Area’s 80,000-acre Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
Nov 24, 2020 · It’s an eerie yet fascinating journey into the workings of this famous site, and exploring Alcatraz Island’s varied and often dark history is a memorable experience. Getting to Alcatraz. Alcatraz Island is accessible by ferry only: these depart regularly from Pier 33, on the Embarcadero.
- Sarah Roller
Dec 30, 2022 · Getting to the RockAlcatraz is a short ferry ride from Pier 33 in San Francisco. Book your ferry ride to the Rock with Alcatraz Cruises. Everyone wants to come to The Rock and tickets often sell out, so book as early as possible. Tickets for the ferry ride and cellhouse audio tour are available at Alcatraz Cruises or call 415-981-7625.
Located in the middle of the San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island is one of Golden Gate National Recreation Area's most popular destinations. Though most well-known as an infamous federal prison, the island also served as a Civil War fortress, active bird sanctuary, the first lighthouse on the West Coast, and the birthplace of the American Indian ...
