Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Don't Miss
The Cell Block
In 1934, America's first military prison became a maximum-security cell block housing
the most-wanted criminals, from Chicago crime boss Al Capone to convicted Soviet spy
Morton Sobell. Though Alcatraz was considered escape-proof, in 1962 the Anglin broth-
ers and Frank Morris floated away on a makeshift raft and were never seen again. Their
escape plot is showcased on the fascinating cell-block tour, which also covers riots, cen-
sorship and solitary confinement.
Native American Landmarks
After the prison was closed in 1963, the state rejected a petition to turn Alcatraz into a
Native American study center. Native American leaders occupied the island in 1969 in
protest, and their 19-month standoff with the FBI is commemorated in a dockside museum
and 'Home of the Free Indian Land' water-tower graffiti. Public support for the protesters
pressured president Richard Nixon to restore Native territory and strengthen self-rule for
Native nations.
Nature Trails
After the government regained control of Alcatraz from Native American protesters, it be-
came a national park. By 1973 it had already become a major draw for visitors and the
namesake birds of Isla de Alcatraces (Isle of the Pelicans). Wear sturdy shoes to explore
unpaved trails to the prison laundry area that has become a prime bird-watching zone, and
glimpse native plants thriving in the ruins of prison-guard homes.
415-981-7625 (Alcatraz Cruises)
day tours adult/child/family $30/18/92, night tours adult/child $37/22
