Alcatraz Island, a Tourist Attraction

Alcatraz Island is one of those tourist traps that isn't a trap at all. It is that rare thing: a justifiably famous tourist attraction that lives up to its reputation and exceeds it.

The site itself is exceptionally beautiful, a rugged wilderness island in the middle of the San Francisco Bay with unparalleled views of the city. The cellhouse audio tour -- a self-guided tour featuring the narration of former inmates and guards -- is brilliantly produced . And the additional museum materials, including a moving film on the history of the Indian occupation, are also superb.

The Alcatraz website does a good job of conveying much of this, but you really have to go to experience it.

Alcatraz Island - Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Via: Boingboing