Alcatraz Garden

A volunteer pulls weeds among beds of colorful flowers in the Alcatraz Gardens

Marybeth Kampman

Quick Facts

OPEN TO PUBLIC:

No

Amenities

1 listed

Scenic View/Photo Spot

Colorful blossoms probably aren't the first association you make with Alcatraz, but believe it or not, the military and prison personnel transformed portions of the island from barren, bird guano encrusted rock to lush gardens. It was after all, their home.

Once the prison closed in 1963, the gardens were neglected and overgrown. Today, through the efforts of dedicated volunteers, the Garden Conservancy has partnered with the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy to bring a host of unique plant varieties back to life on the island.