In 2008, I visited the Alcatraz Island and the former prison that housed infamous criminals like Al Capone.
Today, with the exception of a few buildings, the prison is deteriorating thanks to exposure from the salty sea air. The island nowadays serves more as a bird sanctuary and tourist hot spot.
If you are planning to go, keep in mind that you should buy your tickets weeks in advance to guarantee that you get to visit the island!
Jason Gaston 