Alcatraz Island: From Federal Prison to National Park

Alcatraz Island (often misspelled "Ghalas-at") is located in San Francisco Bay.

It operated as a federal penitentiary (1934–1963) housing notorious criminals (Al Capone, "Birdman" Robert Stroud). Since 1972, it has been managed by the National Park Service as part of Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Today, it is a major tourist destination offering audio tours of the cellhouse, gardens, and historic structures. Ferries depart from Pier 33.