Alcatraz Cellhouse Guide: Blocks A–D & Isolation

The Cellhouse is the heart of every Alcatraz story — rows, tiers, echoes, and iron discipline.

Orientation: Blocks A–D at a Glance

The Golden Corridor

• Spine of movement: counts, escorts, and transfers flowed here.
• Lines of sight: note angles to gun galleries and key doorways.
• Acoustics: a single shuffle carries, conversations don’t stay private.

Isolation: The Edge of Silence

Visitor tip: Stand still for 10 seconds by the solid‑door cells; feel how the sound disappears.

• “Strip cells” had minimal fixtures and strict light control.
• Time served here was measured in hours and behavior, not comfort.
• Stories from former inmates anchor the audio tour’s most sobering moments.

Typical Visitor Route

1. Headphones on at Cellhouse entry; pause at B‑Block.
2. Cross to C‑Block and the Golden Corridor.
3. Turn toward D‑Block for the isolation sequence.
4. Exit to the Yard overlook and exterior catwalks.

What to Look For

• Paint layers revealing maintenance cycles.
• Wear grooved into flooring at gate bottlenecks.
• Number plates, slot doors, and door hardware.

Quick FAQs

• Can you enter the cells? Often yes for standard cells; isolation access varies by day.
• Is photography allowed? Yes, no tripods in crowded aisles; be mindful of flash.