The place is more than an island, more than an old fort, more than a prison.
With the place indelibly linked to our popular culture, simply uttering the word Alcatraz conjures up memories of events both real and imaginary.
Such ruthless criminals as Al Capone, George (Machine Gun) Kelly and Robert Stroud were housed there.
Countless movies were filmed there or based on events that unfolded there.
With all that in mind, it's not shocking that The Rock has become such an attraction.
After taking in an introductory video in the fort building at dock level, use the switchback paths to wind your way up some 13 stories to the main prison building.
Most of the cells are devoid of fixtures and furniture but a handful have been restored to the way they might have appeared when they were being occupied.
You'll have no trouble finding the historically significant cells, as crowds tend to mill around the places where notorious criminals did hard time.
A few cells are left open for visitor to try out. If you take your time, you can even find traces of posters, painting, graffiti and other art left by the prison's former occupants.
The prison library, cafeteria, visitation facilities and the warden's office are also open for public viewing.
Much of the indoor exhibits at Alcatraz are dimly lit and there's minimal natural light, adding to the spooky nature of the place.
Outside the main cell block, enjoy the many gardens scattered around the prison grounds.
Don't forget to look the way you came: Parts of Alcatraz Island offer exquisite views of San Francisco. Peer to the west to find the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
Many of the ancillary structures on the island, including some buildings dating back to the U.S. Civil War, have fallen into disrepair. They are fenced off but fans of urban decay can take it all in safely from the park's pathways.
Other trails are closed for part of the year for the safety of today's real-life jail birds. Many bird species call Alcatraz home and today, the island is their breeding ground.
ricky.leong@sunmedia.ca
GETTING THERE
Although just a stone's throw from the busy wharves of San Francisco, Alcatraz is truly an isolated place Ї something that hasn't changed over its 150-year history.
There is only one way to get to Alcatraz. Alcatraz Cruises (http://www.alcatrazcruises.com/) operates ferries throughout the day from Pier 33 in San Francisco. Because of high demand, some sailings can sell out days in advance, especially during peak tourist season, so you're best to check their website for a choice of tours (day and night), ticket availability and current prices.
ONCE YOU ARRIVE
After disembarking from the ferry, a U.S. National Parks Service employee will welcome you and give a brief overview of the place and its history. Also listen for restrictions on which parts of the island you can visit, and where it is allowed to eat and smoke.
There are several ways to see the island.
Self-guided audio tours are available, where the history of Alcatraz comes alive through the voices of people who lived and worked there.
Additionally, there are special tours offered several times daily where a park warden takes visitors on an extended visit that includes normally inaccessible parts of the prison.
Or you can simply wander around at your own pace.
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