Alcatraz: Facts About the Famous Prison

Want to add some thrill to your trip across the USA? Then visit Alcatraz Prison — one of the most unusual attractions in the world and a symbol of American criminal history. If you want to step into the legendary era, learn about famous inmates, and uncover the secrets of one of the most secure facilities in the US, make sure to include a visit to Alcatraz in your travel itinerary. Here’s what awaits you when you start planning your trip to the USA today.

History 

Alcatraz is located on an island in San Francisco Bay. Originally, in the mid-19th century, a lighthouse and military fortress were built here. A few years later, the fort was converted into a prison for war captives. In 1934, it was given a new status and became a federal penitentiary for the most dangerous criminals.

Prison Closure

High maintenance costs led to the prison’s closure in 1963. For a time after, the island was occupied by a group of Native Americans who caused significant damage to the buildings. In 1971, Alcatraz became part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and was opened to tourists. In May 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to restore the prison. Be sure to visit this historic site as part of your business trip to the USA while it’s still open to visitors.

Architecture 

The prison complex was built using the most advanced technologies of its time. Alcatraz’s architecture impresses everyone visiting the island for the first time. Massive concrete walls up to three meters thick, automatic doors, surveillance systems, gun galleries where guards watched prisoners, tear gas canisters installed in ceilings, and isolated cells made it nearly impenetrable.

Inside the complex, there are residential buildings, dining halls, medical facilities, and recreational areas. Also noteworthy is the oldest operating lighthouse on the West Coast. The island is worth a visit even if you’re on a business tour in the USA rather than a tourist trip.

Escape Attempts

The island is surrounded by the strong currents and cold waters of San Francisco Bay—natural barriers for prisoners. During the 29 years the prison was in operation, there were 14 escape attempts involving 34 inmates. Five of them were declared missing, while the others either died or were caught.

Famous Alcatraz Inmates

The most famous inmate was Al Capone—the gangster of the Prohibition era. Among other prisoners were Robert Stroud, known as one of the most brutal criminals of his time, and George "Machine Gun" Kelly, a well-known bandit. These figures helped make the prison a symbol of American criminal history.

Tourism at Alcatraz

Today, this former prison is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take guided tours with experienced guides or use audio guides (available in Russian) that tell stories about inmate life, the prison’s history, and its most fascinating escapes. The tour includes visits to cells, corridors, visiting rooms, and other parts of the complex.

Night tours are also available—during the dark hours, Alcatraz’s eeriest legends come alive within its walls. Themed events and exhibitions devoted to the prison’s history are held from time to time. This is a great cultural option during a business trip—keep this in mind when planning your business trip.

Films About Alcatraz        

Alcatraz’s historical significance is enormous, and the former prison has become part of global culture through movies, books, and TV series. The most famous films include Escape from Alcatraz (1979), The Rock (1996), as well as numerous documentaries about inmate life.

Ecological Aspect of Alcatraz 

In recent years, efforts have been made to restore the island’s local flora and fauna: the consequences of past construction work are being addressed, and habitats are being created for wildlife. Various species of cormorants and other large waterfowl reside here.

The cultural heritage of Alcatraz is both intriguing and captivating. Incredible stories unfolded on this small island, and the fates of its prisoners continue to draw interest. If you want to experience these and other legends from the past during your business trip, explore TravelHub’s business travel service and book everything you need at great prices.