| Alcatraz Island is one of Golden
Gate National Recreation Area's most popular tour sightseeing destinations, offering a
close-up look at a historic and infamous federal prison long off-limits
to the public. Visitors to the Alcatraz island tour
cannot only explore the remnants
of the prison, but can also learn about the Indian occupation of 1969
- 1971, early military fortifications (the first U.S. fort on the coast),
and the West Coast's first (and oldest operating) lighthouse. These structures
and the Alcatraz island's many natural features - gardens, tide pools, bird colonies,
and bay views beyond compare - are being preserved by the National Park
Service which is working to make it accessible to visitors, preserve its
buildings, protect its birds and other wildlife, and interpret its history.
No food service is available on Alcatraz, however there
is a picnic area located at the dock. Food, drinks and smoking are only
allowed on the dock. (An exception is bottled water, which is available
in the bookstore on the dock on Alcatraz.)
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