Tourism at Alcatraz is booming following Trump’s call to reopen the prison.
Alcatraz prison
Alcatraz Island, one of San Francisco’s most iconic historical landmarks, has attracted millions of visitors drawn by its eerie beauty, notorious former inmates, and dramatic past as a federal prison. Today, this storied site is once again in the spotlight—not just for its history, but for its potential future.
On May 4, 2025, former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly announced plans to restore and reopen Alcatraz as a high-security federal prison. Citing growing concerns over violent crime and prison overcrowding, Trump argued that the island could serve a renewed purpose in the national justice system. The announcement sparked widespread debate across political, social, and cultural circles, with critics calling the plan impractical and symbolically regressive. At the same time, supporters hailed it as a strong stance on law and order.
The news has quickly and significantly affected tourism. Since the announcement, Alcatraz has experienced a surge in visitors, with many wanting to explore the island “before it changes.” Tour operators have swiftly adapted by launching themed tours like “The Final Days of Historic Alcatraz,” and tickets are selling out faster than usual. Local businesses in the San Francisco Bay Area have reported a noticeable increase in tourism-related spending.
Historians and preservationists have expressed concerns about the possibility of altering a national landmark that symbolizes American justice reform. They worry that converting it back into an active prison would undermine its cultural and historical significance. Ironically, this controversy may be generating renewed interest in the site, creating a dynamic conversation between the past and the future.
As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Alcatraz is no longer just a monument to history—it is once again part of it.