Park Site

Alcatraz Island

San Francisco Bay · California

Overview

About Alcatraz Island.

Alcatraz reveals stories of American incarceration, justice, and our common humanity. This small island was once a fort, a military prison, and a maximum security federal penitentiary. In 1969, the Indians of All Tribes occupied Alcatraz for 19 months in the name of freedom and Native American civil rights. We invite you to explore Alcatraz's complex history and natural beauty.

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Weather

The climate on Alcatraz is unpredictable and can change suddenly. Cold, foggy mornings may give way to sunny afternoons, which in turn can shift quickly back to more fog and blustery winds. The most pleasant weather usually occurs in spring and fall. Summers tend to be cool and foggy, winter is our rainy season. Temperatures on Alcatraz seldom rise above 75°F (24°C) or fall below 38°

Key Facts

TypePark Site

Official Website

Gallery

Photos of Alcatraz Island.

5 images

Things to do

Discover Alcatraz Island.

Black birds stand/sit on the ground. One bird stretches out its wings with seaweed in its mouth.

Birdwatching on Alcatraz

30-90 Minutes

Alcatraz Island is home to thousands of birds. Bring your binoculars and the NPS app to learn about our avian friends and where to look for them.

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Tall plants surround a set of stairs leading towards water. Across the water is a city skyline.

Explore the Agave Trail

30-60 Minutes

Birds, tidepools and stunning views of the San Francisco can all be found along a short walk on the Agave Trail. This trail offers a chance to step away from the crowds and take a walk on the wild side. Keep your eyes peeled for the islands abundant bird life.

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A open hall extended between 2 rows & 3 tiers of cells. Skylights let in light overhead.

Tour the Cellhouse

45-60 Minutes

Listen to the voices of formerly incarcerated men and the correctional officers who guarded them, as they tell you the stories of United States Penitentiary: Alcatraz. This award winning tour guides you through the Alcatraz Cellhouse and is available in eleven languages.

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Parks Rangers standing on and around a red fire engine.

View the Alcatraz Fire Engine

15 Minutes

Restored in 2003, this historic Diamond T Fire Engine can be viewed in the garage of the Quartermaster Building.

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A long building next to a rocky plant covered slope, sitting in front of a large body of water.

Visit the New Industries Building

30-60 Minutes

Visit the New Industries Building to see exhibits on Prison Labor and the commemorative exhibit, Red Power on Alcatraz: Perspectives 50 Years Later. Red Power on Alcatraz tells the story of their 19 -month Occupation of Alcatraz, a watershed moment in the history of Alcatraz Island, the Native American civil rights move

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