From Alcatraz to Tihar: Infamous prisons that are now tourist attractions

Let’s go to prison – is not a sentence you’d normally hear people say in their daily lives. As grim as it may sound, this is something you can say when you are travelling. If you are still confused, we are talking about prisons that, believe it or not, are now tourist attractions. Some of these prisons are no longer an active place of incarceration, but some are still functioning as correctional facilities.

Prisons are often associated with dark histories and grim stories, but some have transformed into popular tourist destinations. These former places of confinement offer a glimpse into the past, revealing tales of notorious inmates, harsh conditions, and remarkable escapes.

Here’s a look at some of the most infamous prisons that you can now visit as a tourist.

Alcatraz, perhaps the most famous prison in the world, sits on a rocky island in San Francisco Bay. Once home to some of America’s most notorious criminals, including Al Capone and the "Birdman" Robert Stroud, Alcatraz was known for its maximum-security measures and the near impossibility of escape. The prison closed in 1963, and today, Alcatraz Island is a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can explore the cell blocks, visit the solitary confinement cells, and learn about the infamous escape attempts that have become the stuff of legend.

The Cellular Jail, also known as "Kala Pani," is located in Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Built by the British in the late 19th century, it was used to exile political prisoners during India’s struggle for independence. Many freedom fighters were held in this prison. Today, the Cellular Jail is a national memorial and a popular tourist destination.

Tihar Jail, located in Delhi, is the largest complex of prisons in South Asia and is known for its high-profile inmates and strict security. Established in 1958, it has housed a wide range of prisoners, from political activists to notorious criminals. Although still an operational prison, Tihar has gained attention for its unique rehabilitation programs, including the Tihar Factory, where inmates produce various goods. While not a traditional tourist attraction, Tihar Jail offers limited public access during special events, providing a rare glimpse into its operations and inmate life.

Located in Dublin, Kilmainham Gaol played a significant role in Irish history, especially during the struggle for independence. Many leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were imprisoned and executed here, making it a symbol of Irish resistance. The prison, which operated from 1796 to 1924, now serves as a museum. Guided tours take visitors through the cold, stone corridors, revealing the harsh conditions endured by inmates and the historical events that unfolded within its walls.

Robben Island is synonymous with the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. The island prison, located off the coast of Cape Town, held many political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, who spent 18 of his 27 years of imprisonment here. Robben Island is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. Visitors can tour the prison, and see Mandela’s cell

While the Tower of London is best known as a royal palace and fortress, it also served as a notorious prison for over 800 years. Famous figures like Anne Boleyn, Guy Fawkes, and Sir Walter Raleigh were imprisoned within its walls. The tower’s history is filled with tales of intrigue, torture, and execution. Today, it’s one of London’s most visited attractions.

Known to American prisoners of war as the "Hanoi Hilton," Hoa Lo Prison in Hanoi, Vietnam, was used by French colonists to house political prisoners and later by North Vietnam during the Vietnam War. The prison was notorious for its harsh conditions and brutal treatment of inmates. Today, a portion of Hoa Lo has been preserved as a museum.

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Eastern State Penitentiary was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world. Opened in 1829, it was designed to inspire penitence in criminals through solitary confinement. The prison held many notorious criminals, including mobster Al Capone. Today, the crumbling cell blocks and guard towers are open to the public, offering a haunting glimpse into the past.