United States
Alcatraz Island
Welcome to San Francisco Bay! Alcatraz is a small rocky island that has been home to a lighthouse, a military fort, and one of the most famous former prisons in the world.
Why is it famous?
It sits alone in the cold, choppy waters of San Francisco Bay, surrounded by strong currents.
It once held a famous federal prison, and today it's a popular national park site visitors can tour by boat.
How did it get its start?
The island first got a lighthouse in 1854, the very first one built on the U.S. West Coast.
The military later built a fort and prison on the island before it became a federal penitentiary in 1934.
Amazing facts
Alcatraz is Spanish for 'pelican,' since the island was once covered in seabirds.
The island sits about 1.25 miles offshore, surrounded by cold, fast-moving water.
Quick facts
- Alcatraz is Spanish for 'pelican,' since the island was once covered in seabirds.
- The island sits about 1.25 miles offshore, surrounded by cold, fast-moving water.
- It's home to nesting seabirds today, including cormorants and gulls.
- Millions of visitors now tour the island's old buildings and lighthouse every year.