Alcatraz
Alcatraz is a small island in San Francisco Bay, formerly home to a notorious federal prison, now preserved as a popular historical tourist attraction.
Housing some of America's most notorious criminals in a facility from which escape was considered essentially impossible, this island prison's dark history has made it one of San Francisco's most visited attractions.
A Notorious Federal Prison
Alcatraz operated as a federal prison from 1934 to 1963, housing some of America's most notorious criminals in a maximum-security facility.
Considered Escape-Proof
Alcatraz's island location, surrounded by cold, treacherous San Francisco Bay waters, made escape attempts extraordinarily difficult and dangerous.
Famous Escape Attempts
Despite its reputation, several inmates attempted daring escapes from Alcatraz, with a few cases never definitively resolved regarding their ultimate fate.
A Popular Historical Attraction
Following its closure as a prison, Alcatraz became a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors guided tours exploring its notorious history.
