Alcatraz reopens for indoor tours after yearlong closure
Alcatraz, the historic island prison off San Francisco, has opened up for a limited number of indoor tours
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Alcatraz the historic island prison off San Francisco opened up Monday for a limited number of indoor tours, which had been off-limits for more than a year due to the pandemic.
Face masks and social distancing are still required at the island, which once housed Al Capone and George “Machine Gun" Kelly. Ferries to Alcatraz are operating at 25% capacity, carrying about 150 passengers instead of the usual 600.
Access to the infamous cell house will also be limited only to visitors who sign up for the audio tour in advance.
Safety modifications have been made throughout the island including social distancing markers, increased cleanings and hand sanitizing stations.
Food service will not be available on the ferries or on the island.
In August, the popular tourist destination opened to an outdoor-only experience, to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19.
Alcatraz usually hosts up to 5,000 tourists a day. For now, that number will be reduced to about a thousand.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.