Alcatraz is a former Federal Penitentiary made famous by Robert Stroud's book The Birdman of Alcatraz (made into a film in 1962) and the 1979 Clint Eastwood film Escape from Alcatraz. It is now a National Park and one of the most interesting sites to visit when you're in San Francisco. When on the island, definitely make use of the provided headsets; the recorded audio tour is extremely well done, informative, and interesting. Also, be sure to dress in layers, even in the summer. San Francisco has cool summers, and Alcatraz - being an island in the middle of San Francisco Bay - can be cold and windy.
For a totally unique visit to Alcatraz, make plans to participate in a special Give Back program being supported by the Ritz-Carlton San Francisco. This project in environmental conservation will involve volunteers from the hotel, along with hotel guests and other participating members of the public, restoring the gardens of Alcatraz. Abandoned when the prison was closed in 1963, a restoration project began in 2003 sponsored by the Garden Conservancy, the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy, and the National Park Service. The goal is to clear weeds and tend the newly re-established garden areas.
Two dates are set for this summer, June 24 and September 30. The day will begin in the lobby of the Ritz-Carlton San Francisco at 7:30 a.m. Participants will be transported to Pier 33 where they will board the park's staff boat to Alcatraz Island (departing at 8:30 a.m.). Once on Alcatraz, guests will be assigned into groups to work on volunteer project teams. After completing the projects, guests will enjoy an educational tour of the island. A box lunch, water, and refreshments will be provided.
You can return to Pier 33 at 1 p.m. where transportation will be provided back to the Ritz-Carlton San Francisco. Alternatively, you are welcome to stay on Alcatraz and take any afternoon ferry back to Pier 33. Please note that transportation back to the hotel is not provided if a guest decides to spend more time on Alcatraz.
The cost of this experience is $125, and cash proceeds will be donated to Golden Gate National Parks. This is your chance to support a worthwhile project and enjoy a unique perspective on Alcatraz.
Ritz-Carlton San Francisco (search here on Google)
copyright (c) 2007 by David J. Ourisman. All rights reserved. If you have comments on this column, or questions about booking travel, email me or visit my website.
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