Alcatraz. The most famous prison in the world.

Who would have thought that visiting a prison would be a tourist attraction? Yet, here we are, travelling across San Francisco Bay. The destination? Alcatraz!

Alcatraz was known as one of the most formidable prisons in the world. Many a film have been made about this impenetrable fortress and the many attempts to escape. It’s only once you visualise this imposing fortress that you realise why this prison has captivated many a person over the decades.

As we set off on our ferry trip to Alcatraz island, the sun is shining. But once we got closer to our destination, we could see how once a criminal was incarcerated here, the only way out was by boat.

Fog set in as we made our way around the prison, which is now designated as part of the National Park service.

Wandering around the prison, it feels like stepping back to the mid 1960’s, when the prison closed down. We got to see close hand what life was as like here, in cramped conditions and in some parts, which little natural sunlight on show.

It may not be the most obvious tourist attraction, but it is one well worth adding to your itinerary!

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Post by Mikethetravellingscouser | Jul 6, 2025