Is Alcatraz a tourist trap?

It's easy to imagine Alcatraz in a world without tourists, and that's why it remains San Francisco's greatest tourist trap.



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While the indictment is valid, there is too much evidence in defence of Alcatraz to ignore. The history, mystique and still-unsolved mystery of a real-life escape so clever it equals The Count of Monte Cristo or The Shawshank Redemption allow Alcatraz to withstand an enormous amount of hassle and still be worth it.

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This former prison island in the Bay of San Francisco, USA, is one of the world's premier (and most popular) dark-tourism attractions.

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Here are some simple and effective ways to avoid falling into a tourist trap the next time you travel to parts unknown.
  1. Avoid Tourist Style. Most of us can spot a tourist right off the bat. ...
  2. Go Public. ...
  3. Dine Locally. ...
  4. Grab Some Coffee. ...
  5. Aim for Off-Season. ...
  6. Design Your Own Tour. ...
  7. Be Patient.


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Alcatraz has a many-layered history: Civil War fortress, military prison, federal prison, bird sanctuary, first lighthouse on the West Coast, and the birthplace of the American Indian Red Power movement: These are just a few of the fascinating stories of the Rock.

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National Park Service staff and volunteers offer free interpretive programs throughout the day. Once on the island, you can stay as long as you wish. Ferries about every half hour and you can return to San Francisco on any ferry. We recommend at least two to three hours to fully visit the island.

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Before they open the prison in the morning, they have him come out and deliver an opening act for the crowd. He's like a standup comedian. What does Alcatraz smell like? A cross between sea air and decay, old paint.

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Swimming from Alcatraz is one of the most famous, desirable, and enjoyable open water swims (wild swim) in the entire world. Despite lore that swimming from Alcatraz is dangerous, for experienced swimmers with proper support, swimming from Alcatraz can be safe and fun.

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Every year, there are a total of 18 overnight stays available on Alcatraz, and a staggering number of 200 to 400 groups compete for the opportunity to secure one of these spots. Of course something like this would be in high demand, which is why only non-profit groups with a 501(c)(3) status are eligible to apply.

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The weather on Alcatraz is unpredictable and liable to change unexpectedly, so be prepared by bringing along a light jacket or sweater no matter how nice the day starts out.

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But three men—brothers John and Clarence Anglin and Frank Morris—might have pulled off what CBS News calls “one of the greatest prison escapes in American history.” (Check out more of the strangest unsolved mysteries of all time.)

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Loud talking, whistling, shouting, singing, and other unnecessary noises are not permitted.

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Every year, there are a total of 18 overnight stays available on Alcatraz, and a staggering number of 200 to 400 groups compete for the opportunity to secure one of these spots.

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The roads and walkways on Alcatraz are steep. The distance from the dock to the Cellhouse is approximately 1/4 mile (. 4km) and the elevation change is 130 feet (40 meters), the equivalent of walking up a 13-story building.

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The common theme expressed by most inmates was the rule of silence which was discontinued in the late 1930's. In the earlier years of Alcatraz, inmates were not allowed to talk to one another except during meals and recreation periods.

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Extremely controversial, termination gave the federal government ownership of tribal lands and as a result many protested the flagrant land grab. The Occupation of Alcatraz serves as one of the most visible protests.

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How To Not Be An Obnoxious American
  1. Be quiet on public transportation. ...
  2. One more time, BE QUIET. ...
  3. Traveling in groups is safe. ...
  4. Don't wear a backpack. ...
  5. Embrace the culinary culture of your host country and the countries you visit. ...
  6. Adapt to fashion trends. ...
  7. Dress for the climate of your host country.


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