San Francisco Tours

Exhibits at Alcatraz: Uncover stories within these walls

Beyond its prison bars and rocky shores, Alcatraz Island hosts a compelling collection of exhibits that reveal its layered history. From prison life and military legacy to Native American activism and modern art, these thoughtfully curated displays invite you to explore the deeper stories that shaped “The Rock”.

Featured exhibits at Alcatraz Island

Beyond being known as a historic prison, Alcatraz Island is also home to thought-provoking exhibits. From the story of mass incarceration in the U.S., to the island’s role as a haven for seabirds and the rich legacy of Native American activism, each exhibit offers a deeper perspective on Alcatraz and its place in American history and culture.
Note: Admission to exhibits is included with your entry ticket.

The Big Lockup: Mass Incarceration in the U.S.

Location: New Industries Building
Exhibition type: Permanent

A compelling exhibition that traces the history of incarceration in the U.S., from the Civil War to today. Through photographs, interviews, and striking visual displays, it explores who is incarcerated, why, and how we might reimagine justice in a changing society.

Birds in a Changing Climate

Location: New Industries Building
Exhibition type: Permanent

This multi-media interpretive exhibit showcases the waterbird species that call the island home. You’ll learn how climate change affects nesting seabirds, see them in nesting behaviors, and discover Alcatraz’s role as a critical wildlife habitat in the Bay.

Red Power on Alcatraz: 50 Years Later

Location: New Industries Building
Exhibition type: Permanent

This commemorative exhibit marks the 50th anniversary of the Native American occupation. Through photos, protest art, and first-hand accounts, it honors the 1969–71 movement that transformed the island into a platform for Indigenous rights.

Read about the island's history

Frequently asked questions about the ongoing exhibits at Alcatraz

No extra tickets are needed. Exhibit access is included with your Alcatraz tour tickets.

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