Alcatraz Island Visit

Ben and I had one full day to spend in San Francisco (read about the rest of our days in San Francisco here) and the number one thing to do had to be a trip to Alcatraz. It is recommended to book your trip in advance so I went for the 10am slot figuring that we'd be up early due to jet lag. 

Pier 33 was already buzzing with activity when we arrived and we were able to walk around the models of Alcatraz Island whilst we waited to board the Alcatraz Clipper to Alcatraz island. 

The ferry ride takes approx 15 minutes across to Alcatraz Island and gives a wonderful opportunity to see the Golden Gate Bridge (which was almost hidden by fog on our trip), watch people sailing in the waters and admire views of San Francisco. Ben and I chose to sit on the open top deck which was very cold and windy - warm clothing is a must. Soon Alcatraz Island came into view.

Once you have stepped off the ferry everyone gathers under the above sign for instructions from the guides. There is an opportunity to join guided tours but Ben and I decided we wanted to go it alone and rely on the audio tour and our own investigations. Once we had taken note of the ferry schedule and heeded the rules of the island (no eating, drinking and the like) we begun the climb to the prison cells. If you ever visit Alcatraz as well as warm clothing make sure you have your comfy shoes on - the climb is steep!

The cell block was surprisingly small but obviously built to pack the prisoners in going three high. Ben found the cells quite comfortable although I found them less so!

It was interesting to hear about attempted escape attempts by prisoner, one of which left the grenade scars above. One of the attempts by a prisoner was achieved by starving themselves so they could squeeze through bars which were slightly expanded - I don't think I could get my leg through the bar let alone my whole body!

It was interesting to see the contrasting prisoner and wardens facilities and I hadn't realised that families of the wardens lived on the island in provided housing. Not sure I would enjoy living alongside the countries most dangerous criminals.

At the end of the tour we were able to meet one of the few surviving prisoners who was on the island signing copies of his book about his experiences. Overall it was an enlightening and interesting experience and both Ben and I have returned home with a desire to watch Clint Eastwoods Escape from Alcatraz so an online order is on the cards.

And don't forget...

Two nights in San Francisco

The Cartwright Hotel, San Francisco link

San Francisco was the first stop on our three city American holiday and surprisingly the one everyone seemed most envious of when we discussed our plans - for us it was a welcome stop for two nights after a long 10 hour flight.

Our base for the two nights was The Cartwright Hotel with rooms which were small but clean and more than sufficient for a short stay. The lobby areas were pleasant with complimentary coffee, newspapers and printers for boarding passes and the like. The hotel staff were excellent providing swift check in, location maps and booking taxi's when requested.

After leaving our cases in the room we went for a walk to nearby Chinatown which was as you would expect; multiple shops and restaurants so we moved on to my favourite American restaurant Cheesecake Factory for a well deserved glass of wine and some dinner. Jetlag took hold so we headed back to our room and collapsed into bed ready for a day on the tourist trail to follow.

The next morning it was a bright and early start for our trip to Alcatraz which as you would expect deserves it's own post so stay turned for that later in the week. Once we had escaped Alcatraz we headed down to Fisherman's Wharf, enjoyed the brass band, sampled The Boudin Bakery's famous sourdough bowls filled with an amazing chilli (I know you're thinking it's scandalous to not try the Clam Chowder but I don't eat seafood) and made friends with the sealions.

Boudin Bakery, San Francisco link

Our dinner for the night had been booked at Harris Steakhouse after trawling numerous reviews on Tripadvisor and trying to find somewhere with good food and background music. Whilst enjoyable and very grown up we did have to send our steaks back as they were overcooked (the photo below is pre-return) which was a shame after a good start with martini's and french onion soup.

Harris Steakhouse, San Francisco link

Final mention goes to Lori's Diner, the quintessential 50's style American diner that is a must for me on any trip. Luckily Lori's Diner was a few doors from our hotel and we had 20% discount vouchers which enabled us to enjoy breakfast there both mornings for only a few dollars.

Lori's Diner, San Francisco link

French toast with a side of bacon

Denver omelette with hash browns and toast

So the question is, did I leave my heart in San Francisco? Sadly not. It was a great stopover on our trip, I thought Alcatraz was amazing and appreciate we didn't completely embrace the tourist activities but I didn't get the usual enthusiasm I have for other Cities on my travels, but am I pleased I went, most definitely.