EXTRAORDINARY LANDSCAPES. ENDURING STORIES.

Alcatraz Island

Island prison & layered harbor history
California
Scenic header: Independence Monument as seen from Rim Rock Drive is an icon of the larger national monument. · NPS Photo · Photo credits
TAKE TIME TO DISCOVER

Island prison & layered harbor history

A harbor crossing leads to a former federal prison, military site and place associated with Native American activism. The island’s views and stories reach well beyond its famous cellhouse.

A related destination: Alcatraz Island is included for its scenery or history and is identified here by its current designation. It is not counted as a national monument.

BUILD A MEMORABLE VISIT

What to explore

  • 01Cellhouse interpretation
  • 02Island grounds
  • 03San Francisco Bay views

Before you go

Book the authorized island ferry and allow time for steep paths. Alcatraz is part of Golden Gate National Recreation Area, not a national monument.

Give the place time

Choose a manageable walk, viewpoint or tour, and allow time for interpretation. Gateway areas help orient the visit; they are not exact entrance directions.

Make the details easy

Confirm the specific facilities, walking surfaces and vehicle access your group needs. Tours, transport and special access may require separate arrangements.

Official visitor information ↗Plan your visit →

Check the official source for current access, hours, fees, reservations, permits and alerts. Photos may show earlier conditions. Suggested highlights are visit ideas, not a guarantee that every area is currently open.