I remember going to Alcatraz on a school trip (as most schools in SF Bay Area will make Alcatraz on of the main field trips) about 20 years ago.  I am sure it hasn’t changed much other than it’s still a great tourist attraction, especially since some Hollywood movies such as the Rock was filmed there.

Well, if you want to go to Alcatraz, it might be a good idea to actually read up on its history to get a better understanding and enjoy the show more.

You can check out the official Alcatraz site here and also on Wikipedia.

Alcatraz Island is one of Golden Gate National Recreation Area’s most popular destinations, offering a close-up look at a historic and infamous federal prison long off-limits to the public. Visitors to the island can not only explore the remnants of the prison, but can also learn about the Indian occupation of 1969 – 1971, early military fortifications (the first U.S. fort on the coast), and the West Coast’s first (and oldest operating) lighthouse. These structures and the island’s many natural features – gardens, tide pools, bird colonies, and bay views beyond compare – are being preserved by the National Park Service which is working to make it accessible to visitors, preserve its buildings, protect its birds and other wildlife, and interpret its history.

Tags: alcatraz, alcatraz island, federal prison, field trips, golden gate, golden gate national recreation area, indian occupation, lighthouse, military fortifications, national park service, natural features, public visitors, remnants, school trip, sf-bay-area, tide pools, tourist attraction, wikipedia

This entry was posted on Saturday, January 17th, 2009 at 1:24 pm and is filed under Getting Around.