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Alcatraz IslandView of the cellhouse interior.
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Alcatraz Island
For Kids

Many families planning a visit to Alcatraz worry about bringing children to a former penitentiary - they often ask us if it is appropriate for them. Our answer is a definite yes!

Our experience is that children enjoy the Rock but that they often find different aspects of an Alcatraz visit interesting - for example the ferry ride on San Francisco Bay, the abundance of flowers and birds that inhabit the island, the views of the surrounding towns, islands, and bridges, and the steep hill on the island. There is no reason to hesitate bringing children to the Rock.

 
Cover of Alcatraz Junior Ranger Booklet

Alcatraz Junior Ranger Program

When you earn your Junior Ranger certificate and badge, you'll learn what park rangers do to help protect nature - plants, animals, birds, land - and how we work to preserve and remember our cultural history. As a Junior Ranger, you'll care for our national parks and discover new ways to experience your environment. 

On arriving on Alcatraz contact a member of our staff at the dock to get a copy of our Junior Ranger booklet. Once completed, return to the dock to be sworn in as a Junior Ranger and have your certificate signed and stamped.

Hospital, US Penitentiary Alcatraz  

Did You Know?
U.S. Penitentiary Alcatraz had a complete hospital in the cellhouse which was staffed by medical personnel from the Public Health Service in San Francisco.

Last Updated: November 18, 2007 at 15:27 EST