Perhaps the most famous prison in California, Alcatraz Island is an incredible, historic San Francisco destination. Visitors are welcome to explore the former military and federal prison buildings, view the lovely lighthouse that illuminates San Francisco's foggy days and nights, and learn all about the American Indian Occupation of 1969. Explore the magnificence and the notoriety of Alcatraz for yourself.
Alcatraz Island -
A small island located in San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz is one of San Francisco's most popular tourist destinations. Ferryboats run to Alcatraz Island daily, carrying passengers eager to explore the abandoned prison building and the windy grounds, which include gardens planted by the park rangers who make Alcatraz their home. The Golden Gate National Recreation Area, part of the National Park Service, manages Alcatraz Island.
Holiday Inn Golden Gateway in San Francisco -
Situated in the vibrant heart of San Francisco, California, the Holiday Inn Golden Gateway offers guests an ideal location for exploring all of San Francisco's must-see sights, like Alcatraz Island. Hotel rooms are comfortable and roomy, furnished with either a king, queen, or two double beds. Relax with a flat-screen LCD television, complete with cable channels like HBO and pay-per-view movies. Kids will enjoy playing video games on the Nintendo Wii, and with complimentary Wi-Fi, you can do a little Alcatraz research before heading out to the Island.
Alcatraz, aka "the Rock" -
Known far and wide as the Rock, Alcatraz Island was first a established as a military fort in the 1850s by the United States Army. During the Civil War, it became a military prison, and in 1934, a Federal maximum security prison for high-risk civilian prisoners. Because of the chilly San Francisco Bay waters that surround Alcatraz Island, prisoners thought twice about trying to escape. In all, 36 inmates tried fleeing Alcatraz, but none succeeded. We recommend the Night Time Tour that will send chills down your spine!
Alcatraz Island Today -
Today, those who want to escape to Alcatraz must do so by ferryboat. Alcatraz Cruises transports visitors to and from the Rock each day. Be sure to plan far in advance for tickets sell out quickly. In addition to the Island's history, visitors will discover a beautiful natural setting alive with rare plants and flowers, as well as sea birds and marine animals. For more information, go to http://alcatrazcruises.com/
