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Day Two: Alcatraz, Fisherman's Wharf

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A trip to San Francisco would not be complete without visiting the infamous Alcatraz, also known as “The Rock”. Although you can view it from Fisherman’s Wharf, the best way to take it all in is to visit this former prison island in San Francisco Bay. Discovered in 1775 by Juan Manuel Ayala, Alcatraz was named after the many pelicans that nested on the island. In 1934, the government converted the buildings into a maximum-security prison. Due to the surrounding frigid waters, sharp cliffs, and treacherous tides and currents, it was believed that no one would be able to escape the prison.

Alcatraz is now a national park where park rangers lead daily tours. You will hear of the prison’s thrilling history as well as intriguing stories about Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelly, the so-called Birdman of Alcatraz, Robert Stroud, and other legendary figures who stayed here. It was extremely expensive to keep prisoners here as water and supplies had to be shipped in. The prison was closed in 1963 after a seeming escape with no bodies being discovered. The following year the island became part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

This trip should take an average of 2 ½ hours for the boat ride and the tour. Make sure to bring warmer clothes because of the cooler temperatures and also comfortable shoes to walk in. Because this is a popular excursion, purchase tickets as soon as possible on your vacation.

Later, spend the afternoon shopping in one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, Fisherman’s Wharf. The area for shopping begins at Pier 39 on the east end and finishes at Ghirardelli Square on the west end. The Wharf is home to such popular spots as the Haunted Gold Mine, The Wax Museum, and Medieval Dungeon. One of the best free attractions on the wharf are the sea lions who have taken up residence on the neighboring floating docks.

Next Page: Day Three: Haight-Ashbury, Muir Woods National Monument

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