Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary
San Francisco, California, United States
Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, located on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay, was a maximum-security federal prison from 1934 to 1963. Now a historic site, it remains one of the most iconic prisons in history.
At a glance
- Security / category
- Maximum
- Operator
- Federal Bureau of Prisons (Closed)
- Capacity
- 336
- Opened
- 1934
- Type (listing)
- Historical / Museum
What type of prison is Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary?
This is a Maximum Historical / Museum establishment.
Overview
Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, located on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay, was a maximum-security federal prison from 1934 to 1963. Now a historic site, it remains one of the most iconic prisons in history.
History
Originally a military fortification, Alcatraz became a federal penitentiary in 1934. It housed notorious criminals including Al Capone, Robert Stroud (the 'Birdman of Alcatraz'), and George 'Machine Gun' Kelly. It closed in 1963 due to high operating costs.
Notable Inmates
Alcatraz housed some of the most famous criminals in American history including Al Capone, Robert Stroud (the 'Birdman of Alcatraz'), George 'Machine Gun' Kelly, Mickey Cohen, and Whitey Bulger.
Prison Life
During its operation, inmates followed a strict daily schedule. Cells measured 5×9 feet. Despite its reputation, the prison offered privileges including a library and recreational yard time for compliant inmates.
How to visit Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary
Alcatraz is now a National Historic Landmark operated by the National Park Service. It is open to visitors who can take ferry rides to the island and explore the former prison through guided and self-guided tours. Booking steps and ID rules are not universal; verify the latest instructions with the establishment.
Before you visit Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary
If you are organising a visit, confirm how bookings work for this jurisdiction and allow time for approvals where they exist. Visitor requirements change; verifying rules shortly before the date reduces the risk of being turned away at the gate. One prison’s procedures are not a template for every other site—always confirm details for the specific place you are visiting.
For a step-by-step overview, read how prison visits work — then confirm every rule with the operator for this establishment.
Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary facility details
Contact channels are unavailable in this record. Look up the facility through official prison directories rather than relying on third-party summaries alone.
Where is Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary located?
Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary sits in San Francisco, California, United States. Coordinates: 37.8267, -122.4233.
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