Why Alcatraz Closed in 1963

Costs and logistics sank Alcatraz’s viability. See how the Rock transitioned from prison to park.

2/12/2025

11 min read

The Rock was expensive rock.

Final Departures

Factor	Impact
Water & infrastructure	High recurring costs
Corrosion	Constant maintenance burden
Policy shifts	Reduced appetite for an ultra‑costly prison

The island’s next chapter — interpretation and access — began soon after.

J’ai écrit ce guide pour rendre votre journée à Alcatraz facile, instructive et mémorable — avec des conseils honnêtes issus de visites répétées.