Even though Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary has been closed since 1963, the myth, legend, and lore of the infamous Rock that housed prisoners such as Al “Scarface” Capone, the “Birdman of Alcatraz”, and “Machine Gun” Kelly has grown exponentially over the past half century.
Today, it is a must do destination for tourists from around the world–so much so that the Rock recently received TripAdvisor's 2015 Travelers’ Choice Award as the Number One U.S. Landmark, and number eight in the world.
Attracting more than 1.4 million visitors annually, touring the Rock has become so popular that tickets must be booked months in advance throughout the summer season.
Join Correspondent, Tom Wilmer as he visits with National Park Service Public Affairs Officer, Alexandra Picavet, at Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing in San Francisco, California.
Alcatraz Island is administered by the National Park Service's Golden Gate National Recreation Area.