A Rick Steves Tour of London, England

24 December 20243 May 2025

The train arrived on time at the Underground Terminal of Westminster Station. Most everyone departed making their way onto the platform, riding escalators and taking stairs to the busy world above. I had not yet reached the Thames River, but my heart was pounding in anticipation as I exited the tunnel and the view opened up providing me a glimpse of London’s South Bank.

With its spectacular museums, lavish gardens, notorious theaters and exuberant history, London’s cosmopolitan style and attitude attracts over 27 million visitors each year and is home to over 8 million.

Under the suggestion of Rick Steves, I began my exploration of London at Westminster following the Westminster Walk from his Best European City Walks & Museums guide. Next, I will visit a couple of museums, take the bus tour around the city and if I have time, cruise down the river Thames. Earlier that morning, I walked to the Gloucester Road Station to purchase my pass. The front desk attendant suggested that I stop by The Shard for a spectacular view of the city, which I hoped to fit into my schedule later in the day.

I had plenty of British Pounds to purchase a full day pass which allowed me unlimited rides on the Tube for zones 1 & 2. I fed the machine and confirmed that I was heading westbound for the Westminster stop.

The “Underground” was not as busy as I had expected at 6:30 AM. The train approached, opened its sliding doors and reminded passengers to “Mind the Gap” before taking their seats. I found a spot next to a young mother with her little boy in a stroller, who was eating his morning breakfast. It was a busy work day with full compartment of business suits and backpacks. I counted the five stops before hopping off the train and was feeling a sense of excitement to explore London having just read the book, War of the Roses.

The exit led me up to a set of stairs where I found the statue of Boadicea to my right. She was queen of the Iceni tribe who led an uprising against the Roman Empire in the first century AD. An unobstructed view of the Parliament buildings as well as Elizabeth Tower stood to the north. Soaking in my surroundings from the Westminster Bridge, I admired the London Eye, the Thames River and the London Bridge in the distance.

Elizabeth Tower (lovingly named after the current Queen of England) stood shining in the morning sunlight and I waited in anticipation to hear Big Ben toll at the hour. The structure stands 320 feet high and is connected to the Parliament Buildings, the central meeting places for the British Government. For years, since the 11^th century, when King Canute built a palace here, the Royal Family lived at Parliament until they relocated to Buckingham Palace.

Along the banks of the Thames is the London Eye, built in 2000 and standing 443 feet tall. There are 32 capsules which hold 26 visitors in each car. On a clear day, the views from this attraction can reach as far as 26 miles. The ride from start to finish takes approximately thirty minutes.

I felt a bitter cold wind off of the Thames gently pushing me towards Parliament Square, located across the street from Westminster Abbey. This quiet park, without a bird to be seen, was lined with statues of both famous Brits like Winston Churchill and David Lloyd George as well as notable world leaders, such as Abraham Lincoln, Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela. I followed the stone corridor of this lovely park where I found the gorgeous rosette stained glass window of the infamous Westminster Abbey ahead of me.

One of London’s most precious jewels, not only because of its spectacular architecture but its glorious history, is Westminster Abbey. Edward the Confessor founded the abbey and it is London’s oldest and most important church. For over ten centuries, the cathedral has been the location for a host of coronations, royal weddings and funerals. In 1997, Princess Diana’s funeral was held at Westminster Abbey where it was estimated over 3 million were in attendance for the funeral procession, while Will and Kate were married here on April 29^th 2011.

Following my map to find Whitehall Street, I realized I had come full circle when I noticed the Westminster public subway stop. My current route led me to many of London’s government buildings such as the Royal Navy Headquarters and the Ministry of Finance. Colorful pubs occupied corner spaces along the route and the crowds were starting to grow.

In the distance, I noticed a collection of three monuments, one positioned in the middle of Whitehall. On the towering white memorial made of marble, is a cenotaph honoring the brave men and women who died during the two Great Wars. Each year, in November, the Royal Family attends the Remembrance Day service which takes place around this “Glorious Dead” monument.

The large, white, Greek-style structure that occupies a block along Whitehall was once a part of the palatial estate of Henry VIII and the location of King Charles’ execution. Henry VIII moved out of his Palace of Westminster residence (Parliament) and built this grandiose building which, at one time, extended from Trafalgar Square to Elizabeth’s Tower. The 1698 fire destroyed most of Henry’s opulent structure, but what remained is the Banqueting House of Whitehall Palace.

Continuing my walk towards Trafalgar Square, I noticed that the Horse Guard station was empty, and within minutes I stood in front of the 170 foot column supporting the statue of Admiral Horatio Nelson. Credited for his leadership during World War II and the defeat at Waterloo, he died a heroic death in battle.

The square was alive with tourists and commuters passing through to reach their destination. A line formed at the entrance of the National Museum which had not yet opened. Attempting to climb one of the four bronze lions, a group of teenagers disregarded the warning signs and placards, capturing photos with their cellular devices. A light mist of spray clings to my coat and kisses my face as I pass a fountain eager to find the ticket office for the Hop On/Hop Off bus. A perfect mode of transportation for the day, the double-decker is a quick option for touring of London. Bringing me back to Trafalgar Square, I will have time to indulge in more attractions, sites and pubs which are waiting to be explored.

Have you had the opportunity to visit London? Which guidebooks and resources did you reference? Let me know about your visit by providing a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my walking tour of Westminster in London and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Where to Stay:

The Ambassadors Hotel
16 Collingham Road
Kensington, SW5 0LX
London, United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 20 7373 1075
Photo Credit: Ambassadors Hotel London

Where to Eat:

Earl’s Court Tavern
Taylor Walker
187 Earl’s Court Road
London, SW5 9RL
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 20 7370 2760

Walking Tour Resources:

Best European City Walks & Museums guide, by Rick Steves

London Telephone Booth

The Blind Lemon Cafe, Mount Adams, Cincinnati

14 August 202122 September 2024

Maneuvering the hilly streets of Cincinnati’s Mount Adams is a challenge but the views of downtown Cincinnati from here are spectacular. Tucked away on Hatch Street is the Blind Lemon, a comfortable, cozy bar which I frequented the year of 2000. I was first introduced to this magnificent speakeasy by a friend who resided around the corner and called this his second home. I recall the first time I entered the narrow corridor which opened into a beautiful courtyard with a fireplace in the center. It was a chilly, fall night and the smell of smoke and the warmth of the fire was an atmosphere of pure bliss. On a crisp night, we would order hot buttered rums or coffee to minimize the chill and for the warm summer nights, the Blind Lemon Pain Killer or a Lemontini would kill the heat.

It became customary to pass through the tunnel-like entrance and grab a seat in the courtyard. We rarely entered the bar, unless to meet a friend, and stayed for a couple of hours before venturing off to our next locale. I enjoyed the nights when we would take a seat in the dark, dimly lit bar where we would explore the unique collection of items from paintings, prints, and pocket watches. I never grew tired of searching the display of famous people who have passed through the doors.

The Blind Lemon eventually became one of my favorite hangouts as well. Over time, I learned that the bar had been named for a famous 1920’s Texas blues player, “Blind” Lemon Jefferson. I was even more surprised when I learned that he was known for “Black Snake Moan”, one of my favorite songs remade by Samuel L. Jackson. It was Jefferson’s custom to offer live music each night and a tradition that Cincinnati’s Blind Lemon has made its own.

This unique establishment has been entertaining its guests for over 50 years. A trip to the Blind Lemon is not only a place to gather, but a representation of the history of Cincinnati as well as a hidden tribute to the “Father of the Texas Blues”, Blind Lemon.

Have you stopped by the Blind Lemon for a drink or to check out the atmosphere? I would be interested in hearing about your visit to Mount Adams if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about one of my favorite places to visit and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Blind Lemon Cafe
938 Hatch Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone; 513 241 3885

Hours: Open Monday through Thursday from 5PM to 1AM. Friday from 5PM to 2AM, Saturday from 3PM to 2AM and Sunday from 3PM to 1AM
Tips for Your Visit: Fall is the perfect time to visit for the outdoor fire. The specialties of the house include the Hot Buttered Rum and the Blind Lemon Painkiller.

Where to Stay:

Renaissance Cincinnati Hotel
36 E. 4th Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 333 0000

Where to Eat:

Mt. Adams Bar & Grill
938 Hatch Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 621 3666

During my recent visit, I started out with the jalapeno ravioli, which was spicy and delicious. Depending on my mood, I will either order the grilled Yellowfin Tuna Steak or the grilled Mahi Mahi which are both served over wild rice with peppers and onions.

Teak Thai Cuisine
1051 St. Gregory Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 665 9800

NOTE: This restaurant is now closed.

What to Eat:

Skyline Chili: My go-to meal at Skyline is the 4-way chili with onion served with oyster crackers and hot sauce. I always pick up two York peppermint patties after cashing out. Cincinnati chili is a beef based sauce served over spaghetti noodles and cheese. Additional toppings include onions and beans.
LaRosa’s Pizza: A local chain pizzeria, this Sicilian style pie is made with a sweet crust and sauce. My favorite menu item is the Caprese pesto Flatbread Pizza.
Graeter’s Ice Cream: It’s the French Pot process that makes Graeter’s Ice Cream so decadent and rich. Towards the end of the process, they pour chocolate into the mix creating large chunks of yummy goodness.
Montgomery Inn BBQ: Visiting the original Montgomery Inn BBQ at the boathouse is a culinary and scenic experience. Their ribs are served with a sweet and tangy sauce that has since made them the “Ribs King” and a favorite among locals. Load up on their amazing BBQ flavored Saratoga chips,
Glier’s Goetta: While it looks like a slab of corn beef hash, this breakfast staple is made of sausage and oats, cooked until crispy. Most breakfast restaurants carry it as a side, especially the local cafes and diners.
BonBonerie: One of the most decadent pastry shops in Cincinnati, their rich confections are absolutely amazing.

Books to Read:

Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice, by Curtis Sittenfeld
Running, by J.T. Cooper
Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
Beloved, by Toni Morrison
Double Dutch, by Sharon M. Draper
Romiette and Julio, by Sharon M. Draper

Photo Guide for Mt. Adams:

The view from the Mt. Adams Steps
Eden Park Twin Lakes Overview
Rookwood Pottery, the location for the famous pottery once made here
Eden Park’s fountain and gazebo
The Monastery at St. Paul place
The Blind Lemon’s firepit
The view from Mt. Adam’s Park
Celestial Restaurant in Mount Adams – The restaurant is now closed, but you may still be able to use the parking lot.

The Courtyard during Winter

The Fireplace inside of the Blind Lemon

The Other Side of the Fire Place, by the Bar, Blind Lemon

Inside the Blind Lemon

The Antiques of the Blind Lemon

A Mt. Adams Mural

A Map of Mt. Adams

The Streets of Mount Adams

Exploring the Shawshank Trail in Mansfield, Ohio

1 April 202022 September 2024

Shawshank Redemption is an all-time classic starring Tim Robbins and Morgan Freedman. The movie won several awards and was filmed in central Ohio. So when I learned that most of the movie was filmed in Mansfield, I jumped at the opportunity to download the “Shawshank Trail Drive It Yourself Tour” and began my trek up north. Fourteen sites identify where Hollywood filmed the movie including the Ohio State Reformatory, which is now a museum and open to the public for tours. Here are the details of my tour. SPOILER ALERT!

Shawshank signs and decals identify the sites that are listed on the tour. The drive begins at the Ohio State Reformatory and ends in Upper Sandusky, Ohio where two of the sites were filmed about an hour outside of Mansfield.

Please note: I have put the sites in order in which they appear in the movie and not in the sequence of the driving tour.

At the start of the film, Andy Dufresne is sitting outside of his wife’s lover’s house where he knows she is inside. The façade of the home is Pugh Cabin located at Malabar Farm State Park in Lucas, Ohio.

Located in Upper Sandusky, the Wyandot County Courthouse is the site where Andy’s trial took place. Because I completed the driving tour on a Saturday, the courthouse was not open. NOTE: Should you visit from Monday through Friday, from 8:30 to 4:30, it is required that you ask permission of a courthouse employee prior to taking photos of the inside of the building.

When Red and the other prisoners come out to watch the new prisoners enter the prison yard, there are several angles of the Ohio State Reformatory that are familiar in these scenes.

The guard tower is seen from several angles, but as Red is entering the courtyard of the prison, the view of the post can be seen in the background.

One of my favorite shots in the movie is when the film follows the entrance road up to the façade of the Ohio State Reformatory leading into an aerial view of the prison. It is such a dramatic part of the film that highlights the fascinating architecture of the building.

A view of the bullpen occurs when the prisoners, upon entering the penitentiary, are required to line up on the yellow line. It is here where the new prisoners experience their first sight of police brutality on the inside.

The area set aside for Solitary Confinement is marked within the Ohio State Reformatory. It is here where the prisoners would be sent as additional punishment for not following the rules.

At one point, Andy is washing his face, which shows the inside of his prison cell.

The shower scene in the movie looks very similar to the showers inside of the reformatory except for the fact that the movie shower heads are larger.

Another angle of the shower shows where the towels and clothes of the prisoners are hanging from hooks along the back wall.

Moving away from the Ohio State Reformatory, the next location site is the Shawshank Workshop. Inside of this building is where the filming took place that represented the workshop inside of Shawshank Prison. There are several scenes which shows the prisoners working in the workshop. The most notable scene is when Andy locks himself up in the warden’s office and plays opera over the load speaker for the prisoners to hear, playing Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro”.

There is a scene in the movie where Andy is coming down the stairs with the warden. Although painted a different color than the film, this scene was filmed at the Ohio State Reformatory.

If you look closely to the floor where Andy works on the same level as the warden’s office, you will notice the circular tiles. This floor is located on the first floor of the Ohio State Reformatory and is part of the administrative offices and gift shop.

The façade of the Blissman Building was used as the Brewster Hotel as well as the Portland Daily Bugle. The hotel was where Brooks would stay after being released from prison and would later on, hang himself in his room. On the corner of Main and Fifth is where Brooks would try to cross the street, only to realize that the times are now moving faster and is almost hit by a car. This building is considered haunted and is included in the Haunted Mansfield Tour.

The set for Brooks’ room can be seen at the Ohio State Reformatory.

The scene where Brooks is waiting for his crow, Jake, to return has been replaced with a gazebo.

On the other side of the park is a bench that has been designated as a prop for the movie as the location where Brooks sat waiting for his pet crow, Jake.

On the ground floor of the Ohio State Reformatory is the model for the tunnel where Andy dug his way out to freedom. This is the actual film prop where the Warden throws one of Andy’s stone images that happens to expose the hole from which Andy escapes.

The most memorable prop is that where Andy crawls his way out of the sewage pipe that leads outside of the prison and ending at a creek. According to the museum, the sewage was created by using sawdust, chocolate syrup and water.

One of the most thrilling events of the movie is when Andy enters the Maine National Bank and cashes in his account under the name of Randall Stevens and drops of a package for the bank to mail on his behalf. You can find the location where they shot this scene at what is known as Crosby Advisory Group, LLC. There is the vault door and an office upstairs that was used in the movie.

After Red is released from prison, there is a scene in the movie where he happens to look inside of a storefront window and gazes upon a compass. It will be this compass that will help Red find the Oak Tree that Andy directs him to find.

One of the movie locations that requires a little driving is approximately 15 miles outside of Mansfield on the country roads of Bellville. It is one of my favorite scenes where Red, looking for the Oak Tree, hitches a ride with a man driving a pickup truck. He drops him off at an intersection and is one of the prettiest scenes in the movie. It is at the intersection of Snyder Road and Hagerman Road in Bellville.

The movie zooms in on Red as he continues his journey searching for the Oak Tree.

It is an exciting moment in the movie when Red eventually finds the Oak Tree and the treasure that Andy has left for him. The scene shows Red walking along a hay field and then following a small wall of rocks until he reaches the tree. Located in Pleasant Valley near Malabar Farm, only half of this tree remains due to a lightning strike on July 29, 2011.

UPDATE: On July 22, 2016, winds damaged the 200+ year old tree and the remainder of the tree was cut down on April 9, 2017.

Once Red finds the treasure, he returns back to the Brewer Hotel to pack his belongings. It is here that he also leaves his mark at the hotel “So Was Red”, next to his dear friend’s last message “Brooks Was Here”. This image can be found at the Ohio Reformatory in Mansfield.

Inside of this building is where Andy waits in line to purchase his bus ticket to Fort Hancock, Texas, located at the American/Mexican border. This building is located on Orange Street in Ashland, Ohio.

As Andy rides the bus towards Fort Hancock, Texas, there is a view of the bus heading down a road along the beautiful countryside. This scenic location is also in Belleville, on the corner of Hagerman and Route 95. This is another one of my favorite scenes because it shows a brand new beginning for Red and the opportunity for him to have a second chance.

Shawshank Redemption is a movie about friendship, loyalty, innocence and revenge. It is a thrilling drama where the good guy wins and the bad guy has a second chance. Although it was not a box office success, the US Library of Congress added this film to their National Film Registry finding it “culturally, historically or aesthetically significant.” I couldn’t agree more.

Have you seen Shawshank Redemption or taken the Shawshank Trail in Mansfield? What were you thoughts about the movie? I would love to hear about your experience and thoughts if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Malabar Farm State Park
4050 Bromfield Road
Lucas, OH 44843
Telephone: 419 892 2784

Admission Fee: No fee to drive up to the cabin at Malabar Farm State Park
Hours: Park grounds are open from dawn to dusk.
Amenities: Mt. Jeez lookout, picnic areas, restroom facilities, campgrounds, guided tours, Malabar Restaurant, 32-room country mansion
Scenic View: Pugh Cabin, the façade of the house was filmed as Andy Dufresne’s wife’s lover; the park is extensive with scenic views, especially the Mt. Jeez Lookout
Length of Visit: 30 minutes, unless you continue to explore this beautiful state park
Tips for Your Visit: If visiting the park from November through April, some of the facilities may be closed/unavailable

Wyandot County Courthouse
109 S. Sandusky Avenue
Upper Sandusky, OH 43351
Telephone: 419 294 3826

Hours: Monday through Friday: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Length of Visit: Less than 30 minutes
Tips for Your Visit: You must have permission to take photographs inside.

The Ohio State Reformatory
100 Reformatory Road
Mansfield, OH 44905
Telephone: 419 522 2644

Admission: Self-guided tours for adults (18 & up) are $12 while guided tours cost $17. Students (7 – 17), Seniors (age 60+) and College ID and Military are $10 for self-guided tours and $15 for guided tours. Children 6 and under are free and there is an additional $5 cost for the audio wand. NOTE: Cash only, but there is an ATM machine provided.
Hours: Winter Hours (February 2 to March 31) are from 11 AM to 4 PM, Friday, Saturday and Sunday only; Spring/Summer Hours (April 1 to September 2) are from 11 AM to 4 PM, daily; Holiday Tours (November 24 to December 17) are from 11 AM to 4PM, daily
Amenities: New for 2018, the reformatory will be open for abbreviated tours (September 4th – November 4th – Thursdays through Sunday only in October); self-guided tours; guided tours offered regularly between June and August on Saturdays and Sundays; Specialized guided tours include: History Meets Hollywood Tour, Beyond the Bars Tour, and the Inmate Tour led by Michael Humphrey who spent 14 months here in the late 1960s. This tour contains adult themes and is intended for mature audiences only. Please contact the Ohio State Reformatory to confirm when this tour is available.
Scenic View: There are several scenic views of the reformatory from the Warden’s Quarters and other locations throughout the prison.
Length of Visit: For the basic self-guided or guided tour, allow 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit. Depending on the number of guided tours you purchase, you will require additional time.
Tips for Your Visit: Pay the additional fee for the audio tour which provides interesting information about the reformatory. Admission is cash only but there is an ATM machine provided. Wear proper shoes due to the condition of the metal stairs in the cell block. If you think you can handle it, visit during the overnight ghost tour.

Blissman Building
193 N. Main Street
Mansfield, OH 44902
Telephone: 419 295 2537

Admission Fee: No Fee, but donations are appreciated
Hours: If the door is open, come on in! Let the staff know you are on the Shawshank Tour
Scenic View: The façade represents the Brewer Hotel and the Portland Daily Bugle
Length of Visit: Less than 30 minutes
Tips for Your Visit: Only the façade was used for the movie.

Brook’s Bench
Park Avenue West and Park Street
Mansfield, OH 44902
Telephone: 419 744 9820

Admission Fee: No Fee, public location
Hours: Open 24 hours
Scenic View: From the park bench there is a beautiful gazebo in the park.
Length of Visit: Less than 30 minutes

Crosby Advisory Group,
19 W. Main Street
Ashland, OH 44805
www.crosbyadvisory.com

Admission Fee: No Fee, but donations accepted
Hours: 8 – 4; Monday through Friday
Length of Visit: Less than 30 minutes
Tips for Your Visit: This building may not be available even during the hours of operation, The vault door, teller line and one of the offices upstairs were used as scenes from the movie.

Road to Buxton: Crossroads of Snyder and Hagerman

Shawshank Tree – on Pleasant Valley Road between Malabar Farm and Malabar Farm Restaurant

Revivals Thrift Shop
345 Orange Street
Ashland, OH 44805
Telephone: 419 903 0303

Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Open Saturday from 9 AM to 3 PM on Saturday and closed on Sunday.
Length of Visit: 30 minutes
Tips for Your Visit: The location was used as the Trailways Bus Station in the movie. It is a Christian outreach and ministry today.

Route 95 near Hagerman Road in Butler, OH is where Red rode the Trailways Bus after leaving the Shawshank State Prison,

Zihuatenejo
Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge
St. Croix, US Virgin Islands
Telephone: 340 773 4554

Admission Fee: No Fee
Hours: Open on Saturday to Sunday only and is closed from April to August for turtle nesting season
Amenities: None
Scenic View: The coast of Sandy Point is absolutely stunning with its crystal clear waters and gorgeous white sand beaches
Tips for Your Visit: Do not visit this beach alone. You cannot put a stake in the ground (i.e., for an umbrella) so bring plenty of sunscreen. The water has a drop off and becomes deep very quickly. Turtles and rays are seen here.

Where to Stay:

Wishmaker House Bed and Breakfast
116 Main Street
Bellville, OH 44813
Telephone: 419 886 9463

Where to Eat:

Malabar Farm Restaurant
3645 Pleasant Valley Road
Lucas, OH 44864
Telephone: 419 938 5205

I started my meal with the mushroom soup which was creamy and full of flavor. As my main meal, I ordered the highly popular Reuben sandwich made of slow cooked brisket, kraut, marble rye, artisan Thousand Island and served with chips. Blog post coming soon!

The Vault Wine Bar
29 W. Main Street
Shelby, OH 44875
Telephone: 567 292 9081
The Suite Life of Travel Blog Post

I had already eaten a big lunch and decided to order the stuffed dates at The Vault which are stuffed with bleu cheese, wrapped in bacon, baked and then drizzled with balsamic reduction. I could have ordered two servings they were amazing!

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

A Tour of San Cristobel, San Juan, Puerto Rico

26 February 201817 September 2024

I was determined to see the two forts in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico before returning back to the States. After having an afternoon siesta, it was time to tackle the tour of San Juan’s San Cristobel Fort. There are two entries into the historical site, so I approached the main entrance with its fabulous views reaching El Morro and the Cemetery of Mary Magdalene.

To my left, I could see the city wall. Three miles long, it connects the forts of El Morro to San Cristobel. After several attacks on San Juan beginning in 1625, the wall was finally completed in 1790, completely surrounding the city. This section of the fort, there are embrasures to support cannons once used to protect San Juan from invasion.

I took the ramp up to the next level where I purchased my ticket and began my self-guided tour. From a doorway nearby, I could see the Carnival Liberty docked in the harbor of San Juan.

Immediately, I noticed the beautiful contrast of the old fort against the modern city of Old San Juan as I looked through one of its windows. With such an amazing charm and rich history this beautiful port hosts nearly 4 million visitors each year.

The casemate, with a vaulted chamber in a fortress, was the kitchen used to feed the soldiers of the garrison. It was believed that the kitchen had eventually moved to another area of the fort and the original location converted into a storage room.

There was evidence that the Casemate Chamber No. 3 had several uses over the years. From cannon emplacement to sleeping quarters and dining room, it was believed that during WWII, it may have even been used as an officer’s quarters.

The designated Catholic place of worship was set aside in one of the casemates of the fort. Soldiers could attend weekly mass and it was also a place of daily prayer.

One of the compartments of the hall was set up to show the sleeping quarters of the soldiers that were stationed at the fort.

To ensure a healthy supply of water, the cisterns were built to capture rainwater for drinking. There were a total of 5 cylinders that measured 57 feet long, 24 feet high and 17 feet wide, holding a total of about 870,000 gallons of water.

From the fort there were several views of the busy streets of Old San Juan. The lively mix of pastel left a colorful impression on the horizon.

Passing several openings throughout the fort, I managed to see the cruise ship, Carnival Liberty docked in the San Juan harbor. We had just returned today but I could have easily jumped back on for another week in the Caribbean.

There was a set of stairs that led to the second floor where the troop quarters were located.

I could see where the placement of the cannons were located and the tracks for which they could maneuver them from left to right to reach the target out in the open sea.

The Fire Control Station was built for use in WWII as an observation post to detect enemy ships and submarines. The information collected here was transmitted to assist in the coordination of artillery fire.

As the sun began to set, the light poured in from the arched doorways. In the distance I could see the entrance to the long tunnel that led to the dungeon and I was so excited to explore this area of the fort.

Thinking that the pathway leading to the dungeon would be dark and dreary, I was pleasantly surprised that it was quite well lit. Standing outside of the entrance, the room was unusually small which was not what I had expected, but then I entered.

On the wall are extraordinary carvings of galleons, sailing ships from the 15th to 17th centuries. Absolutely breathtaking, these works of art are assumed to be the drawings of a ship’s captain held captive here, awaiting execution for the crime of mutiny.

Before leaving the fort, I stopped by the gift shop and the small museum that included an exhibit about the life and times of the soldiers living at El Morro and San Cristobel. After picking up some souvenirs and having my national parks passport stamped, it was time for lunch and this would be my last chance to enjoy my favorite local dish, mofongo.

Would you consider visiting El Morro or San Cristobel forts during a visit to San Juan? I would love to hear your thoughts on attractions that are most important to you when vacationing. If you would kindly leave your thoughts in the comments section, that would be great! Many thanks for touring the Castillo San Cristobel through my blog post! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Castillo San Cristobel
San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Telephone: 787 449 4049

Admission Fee: $7 which includes the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal and 24 hours are provided to visit both forts
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Amenities: Gift shop and restrooms
Scenic Views: Gorgeous views from the fort include the harbor and the cemetery as well as the shoreline.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: There are several iguanas and feral cats that roam the premises. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and bring plenty of water. (Carts outside sell water). Don’t miss the Dungeon at Castillo San Cristobel!

Where to Stay:

Hotel Plaza de Armas Old San Juan
202 Calle San Jose
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Telephone: 787 722 9191

Amenities: Non-smoking, free continental breakfast, WiFi, refrigerator and microwave; there is a free trolley nearby at Stop #8

Where to Eat:

Cafe El Punto
105 Calle Fortaleza
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901
Telephone: 787 725 1306

What to Eat:

MOFONGO! This is absolutely my favorite dish in San Juan. Mashed fried plantains are smothered with meat and/or vegetables.
Alcappurias are similar to fritters filled with crab, meat or lobster and dipped in a batter made from green bananas.
Arepas de Coco is a bread made from coconut flour stuffed with meat, seafood or vegetables.
Chicharrones de Pollo are usually served as a side dish to mofongo, these tasty pieces of chicken are seasoned with garlic, oregano and achiote.
Chilo Frito is a fried red snapper served with fried plantains or french fries on the side.
Lechon is a suckling pig cooked whole and prepared juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Pastelon: San Juan’s answer to lasagna made with plantains instead of pasta
The Pina Colada was invented at Barrachina in Old San Juan.

Where to Drink:

Marilyn’s Place
100 Calle San Francisco
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901

What to Read:

The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson
The House on the Lagoon by Rosario Ferre
Simone by Eduardo Lalo
Mundo Cruel by Luis Negron
La Llamarada by Enrique Laguerre
Song of the Simple Truth by Julia de Burgos

Photo Guide for San Juan, Puerto Rico:

La Perla in Old San Juan for its colorful umbrellas
The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of Old San Juan
The Forts in Old San Juan

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Approaching the entrance to Castillo San Cristobel

Plaque designating this site as a National Historic Site

The Contrast between old and modern in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Looking out from the Fire Control Station

Spectacular view from San Cristobel to El Morro

Inside of the Dungeon, San Juan, PR

Well lit tunnel leading to the dungeon

Scenic Coastal View from San Cristobel to El Morro

Krohn Conservatory – A Photographic Tour

5 March 201614 September 2024

The roads had recently been cleared of snow and I was ready to leave the house to witness this wintery wonderland. What better place to spend a cold, wintery afternoon than in the warmth of a conservatory?

From home, I arrived at the Krohn Conservatory within twenty minutes. Bundled up for the cold, I entered the warmer temperatures to a humidity that only comes from the tropics. It was a wonderful contrast to the bitter freeze outside.

I paid the attendant my admission fee and learned that I had arrived between two exhibits. Having missed the recent Christmas Exhibit, the conservatory was preparing for the Hatching Spring Blooms Spring Show. Parts of the conservatory were closed during the renovations but I was able to explore The Palm House, Fern House, Desert House and the Orchid House.

I picked up the pamphlet for the self-guided tour and entered the Palm House located directly ahead.

Taking the ramp to the right, I was greeted by palm trees and the soothing sounds of water. Crossing the bridge, I walked towards the back of the room where I noticed the waterfall. The exotic trees surrounding me included the Rubber Tree, Coffee Tree, Banana Tree and the Banyan Tree. The path led behind the waterfall for a unique perspective and continued on towards the exhibit’s exit.

Exiting through the handicapped door, to my immediate right was the Fern House, I was fascinated with the trees named from foods such as the Chocolate Tree, Starfruit Tree, and the Pomegranate Tree. The unusual Powderpuff Tree bore bright pink blooms that could have easily been found in a Dr. Seuss book.

Because the showroom was closed in preparation for the next exhibit, I exited the main building to reach the Desert House. I couldn’t help but notice a light snowfall and snow covered trees.

The Madagascar Palm was the first beautiful tree I noticed when I opened the door. Is it a cactus or is it a palm tree? An unusual plant, this palm is indigenous to the large island of Madagascar off the coast of southeast Africa. The arid temperatures were the perfect climate for a variety of cacti that thrive in a humid climate. Various pieces of artwork from clay sculptures to metal images were strategically placed around the exhibit.

Leaving the Desert House, I was excited to see the intense red blooms growing among thick thorny plants. The placard identified it as the Crown of Thorns, the Euphorbia milii. Referred to as the Christ thorn, these thick spikes were driven into the skull of Jesus during His crucifixion. I was surprised by the thickness and length of the barbs and could not imagine the pain He must have suffered at the hands of the Romans.

The final exhibit, the Orchid House is a small, intimate display. Showcasing a handful of orchids, there were various species of its kind, each unique and beautiful. Hearty, drooping clusters as well as dainty, fragile exhibits were available in a wide array of color.

An interesting selection of Carnivorous Plants was also thriving within the Orchid House. The Pitcher Plant was one of the most unusual of species, similar to the Venus Flytrap. In fact, they attract, trap and digest their prey, both in the similar manners. Because of its bright colors and sweet nectar, the Pitcher Plant lures insects into its chamber where they are then digested at the bottom.

As I made my way towards the exit, I couldn’t help but think about the movie, “The Little Shop of Horrors.” Waiting for one of these meat-eating plants to bloom into a life sized human eating machine, I planned my way of escape and happy to be alive.

Are you looking for local attractions and educational opportunities to visit in Ohio during the winter season? I would love to hear your recommendations of places to visit if you would kindly leave your suggestions in the comments below! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Krohn Conservatory
950 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 421 5707

Admission Fee: Admission for adults is $7, for youth $4 (ages 5 – 17) and children 4 and under are free.
Hours: Open daily from 10AM to 5PM, closed on Mondays. Special hours on December 18 – 23: 10AM to 7:30PM; December 24: 10AM to 5PM and December 25: 10AM to 2PM
Amenities: rainforest, desert, butterfly show, seasonal exhibits, special educational programs
Scenic View: Interesting plants and exhibits
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: There may be an additional fee for exhibits in addition to admission. The holidays are the best time to visit for the decorated displays.

Where to Stay:

Renaissance Cincinnati Hotel
36 E. 4th Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 333 0000

Where to Eat:

Mt. Adams Bar & Grill
938 Hatch Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 621 3666

Teak Thai Cuisine
1051 St. Gregory Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 665 9800

UPDATE: This restaurant is now closed.

What to Eat:

Skyline Chili: My go-to meal at Skyline is the 4-way chili with onion served with oyster crackers and hot sauce. I always pick up two York peppermint patties after cashing out. Cincinnati chili is a beef based sauce served over spaghetti noodles and cheese. Additional toppings include onions and beans.
LaRosa’s Pizza: A local chain pizzeria, this Sicilian style pie is made with a sweet crust and sauce. My favorite menu item is the Caprese pesto Flatbread Pizza.
Graeter’s Ice Cream: It’s the French Pot process that makes Graeter’s Ice Cream so decadent and rich. Towards the end of the process, they pour chocolate into the mix creating large chunks of yummy goodness.
Montgomery Inn BBQ: Visiting the original Montgomery Inn BBQ at the boathouse is a culinary and scenic experience. Their ribs are served with a sweet and tangy sauce that has since made them the “Ribs King” and a favorite among locals. Load up on their amazing BBQ flavored Saratoga chips,
Glier’s Goetta: While it looks like a slab of corn beef hash, this breakfast staple is made of sausage and oats, cooked until crispy. Most breakfast restaurants carry it as a side, especially the local cafes and diners.
BonBonerie: One of the most decadent pastry shops in Cincinnati, their rich confections are absolutely amazing.

Where to Drink:

Moerlein Lager House
115 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 421 2337

Books to Read:

Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice, by Curtis Sittenfeld
Running, by J.T. Cooper
Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
Beloved, by Toni Morrison
Double Dutch, by Sharon M. Draper
Romiette and Julio, by Sharon M. Draper

Photo Guide for Cincinnati (as provided by Chris Thompson on FourSquare):

The John A Roebling Suspension Bridge
- Pick a spot near the Covington pier and shoot north toward the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunset and underexpose by a few stops to get the lights just right.
- The new lights on the bridge create excellent stars when you photograph them using a narrow aperture (~f/16 and above) on your camera. That means you’ll need a longer exposure (and thus a tripod).
General James Taylor Park
- Shoot from the top of the flag pole mound to get more building reflections in your shot. Shoot at sunset or sunrise for great lighting.
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
- Arrive first thing in the morning when the sun is coming up
The Fountain at Fountain Square
- For great photos of the fountain: set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure (2-5 seconds) to capture the running water. Get Carew or the colored lights above Rock Bottom in the background.
Fountain Square (look for reflections in puddles)
Celestial Restaurant in Mount Adams – The restaurant is now closed, but you may still be able to use the parking lot.
Carew Tower Observation Deck
- Provides some neat photos of the highways snaking around the city. Set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure to get moving car trails. It’s only open at sunset a few days each year.
Engine Company 46, 2733 Erie Avenue (at Michigan), Cincinnati
- One of the most beautiful historic firehouses in all of Cincinnati. The firefighters here are used to having their photo taken while they work. Ask nicely and you can get some cool shots.
Cincinnati Observatory Center
Krohn Conservatory
Great American Ball Park
- Shoot the front of the stadium around sunset to get a nice color blue in the sky. Get one of the player statues in your shot for extra effect.
Devou Park
- The overlook next to the Drees pavilion affords a great view of the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting. Underexpose slightly to get the city lights just right.
Newport Central Catholic for fireworks
- Shoot the Riverfest fireworks from this location. Bring a long lens and a tripod. You’ll want a long-ish exposure (5-10 seconds) to capture the bursts, but make sure the skyline isn’t overexposed.
Riverfront Park
- The colorful fountains make a great subject, but you need to use a relatively fast shutter speed (>1/20 or so) to catch the lights before they change color, leaving your pic with plain white lights.
American Sign Museum
- Be sure to bring a tripod to capture all the signs. Manual white balance is the way to go, because there are so many crazy colors of lights that your camera won’t know how to react.

Coming from the westside of Cincinnati from 50, heading east

Driving through downtown Cincinnati, heading towards Eden Park

The African Statue at the Krohn Conservatory

The Outside Snowy View from Krohn Conservatory

The Desert House

The Orchid House

The View of the Ohio River from Eden Park

A View of Covington, Kentucky and the Ohio River from Eden Park

The Madagascar Palm

Diamond Head, Hawai’i: What a View

22 September 201431 August 2024

After we arrived on the island of Oahu, unpacked and settled in to the hotel, we could not help but notice Diamond Head majestically looming over the island in the distance. We were ready to tackle the hike to its peak and to enjoy some much-needed time in the outdoors, so we loaded up the car, headed for the highway and made our way up the mountain.

Diamond Head is the remnants of a volcanic eruption that occurred over 150,000 years ago. The British gave it the name Diamond Head as they mistakenly thought that the calcite crystals nearby were diamonds. The Hawaiians know Diamond Head as Le’ahi, as to them, it resembles a tuna’s dorsal fin protruding from the ridgeline along its back. Lucky for us, the volcano has been dormant for many years. We began our ascent on this switchback trail, which is considered strenuous but only .8 miles in length.

The trail provided us with spectacular views of the Pacific. We made the climb with several switchbacks before reaching a long flight of stairs. The stairs brought us to a tunnel that lead us to the lower level of the Fire Control Station completed in 1911. More stairs, and we then entered the third level knowing we would soon reach the Observation station.

As we continued our ascent, we had the mountain to one side and a handrail on the other as we made our way to the first overlook. The trail was built in 1908 reaching a height of 760 feet and the views of Diamond Head and Waikiki were breathtaking.

On the other side of the station was the volcanic tuff cone which makes up Diamond Head. According to GeoLearning, a tuff (or ash) cone, is “formed by explosive (and therefore potentially hazardous) phreatomagmatic eruptions (the interaction of basaltic magma and water). Tuff cones thus tend to be found near the water’s edge or just offshore. Tuff is composed of extremely fine-grained cemented volcanic ash.”

It took us a total of about an hour to reach the summit, with some stops along the way to admire our amazing surroundings. Upon reaching the top, there was the Observation Station with a 360 degree view and a more stunning sight of Waikiki below. On a clear day you could see for miles. We took a few minutes to take in the moment and to catch our breath knowing it would probably only take about 30 minutes to return to the start of our journey.

As we finished the hike and reveled in our victorious climb with a view so spectacular and breathtaking, I realized that I would have been so disappointed if I had stayed back at the hotel or opted for a day at the beach. I promised myself that even if it took a bit of effort on my part, I would not want to miss out on an experience of a lifetime such as this.

Have you hiked Diamond Head in Hawaii or maybe you have another hike that made a long lasting impression on you? I would love to hear about your journey if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for taking this journey with me to Diamond Head and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Diamond Head State Monument
Honolulu, Hawai’i 96815
Telephone: 800 464 2924

Admission Fee: $5 per car or $1 per person for pedestrians, cash only
Hours: Open daily from 6AM to 6PM. The last entrance to hike the trail is 4:30PM.
Amenities: ADA Accessible, Snack Bar, Gift Shop, Picnic Pavilion and Tables, Restrooms and Water Fountains.
Scenic View: Spectacular views of Waikiki from Diamond Head!
Length of the Hike: 1.5 to 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Please note that the entrance fee is cash only. If hiking Diamond Head, wear appropriate shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks.

Where to Stay:

Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head
2885 Kalakaua Avenue
Honolulu, Hawai’i 96815
Telephone: 808 922 1700

Where to Eat:

South Shore Grill
3114 Montsarrat Avenue
Honolulu, Hawai’i 96815
Telephone: 808 734 0229

Voted the best fish tacos on the island, I could not wait to order a couple and decided on the Grilled Cajun Ono Fish with Aioli….absolutely delicious! The chips and homemade salsa was a hit as well!

What to Eat:

Kalua Pig: Hawaii is famous for its Kalua Pig, similar to American pulled pork.
Poi: Made from taro root which is similar to a potato, the poi we sampled was “pounded” into a thick starch. This cooking technique results in a sticky pudding-like dessert which is purple in color.
Poke: Similar to Japanese sashimi, yet the fish is cut into chunky cubes and usually served over a bed of rice.

What to Read:

Waterman: The Life and Times of Duke Kahanamoku by David Davis
The Tattoo by Chris McKinney

Photo Guide for Oahu:

Diamond Head Crater Hike: 360 degree views of Waikiki Beach and the Pacific Ocean
Hanauma Bay: underwater photos, photo of the bay from the parking lot
Kualoa Ranch: Jurassic Park scenery
Kualoa Regional Park and Mokoli’l Island: Palm trees and the triangle island
The Pineapple Plantations: Take the inland route from Waikiki to the North Shore and stop at Dole Plantation
Sunset Beach and Pipeline: the North Shore is the perfect location for surfing, so you will find LOTS of surfers here.
Turtle Bay: surfers and sunsets
Waikiki Wall and Beach: palm trees, surfers and highrise buildings, sunrises and sunsets

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Alcatraz Island: A Visit to The Rock

11 August 201431 August 2024

The weather was clear on the day I decided to visit Alcatraz Island. This infamous federal prison, also referred to as “The Rock”, is accessible from Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, California. I couldn’t wait to board the ferry at Pier 33 to tour the “world’s most impenetrable island prison.” The 45-minute boat ride was choppy as the waves splashed up along the sides of the boat. The view of San Francisco’s skyline behind me was spectacular.

As we approached the Island of Alcatraz, there were several buildings that came into focus. On the far right, which is the northwest corner, is the Power House which supplied all of the power to the island. There is also a tall structure which acted as the tower duty station, manned to keep visitors out and to keep prisoners in.

The island was first documented by Spaniard Juan Manuel de Ayala in 1775. He named this the “La Isla de los Alcatraces”, which translates to the “Island of the Pelicans”, because of the large number of pelicans that made their home on the island.

Over the years, the island has served various functions, first as a military prison. It would later become a federal penitentiary, an occupation for Native Americans and eventually a historical museum, documenting its evolution.

Alcatraz is most known for its use as a federal penitentiary. The structure that remains today is the 600-cell building that was constructed in the early 20^th century for housing inmates. At its completion it was hailed as the world’s “largest reinforced concrete building” and was constructed to be escape-proof. It was for this reason that the prisoners here were extremely dangerous or were too difficult to be kept in other penitentiaries. The Warden’s House and a lighthouse was built at the highest point of the island overlooking the prison.

When prisoners arrived on the Rock, they were separated into three classes. Those in the third class were under heavy restrictions and had limited privileges. They were not permitted to have visitors or receive mail, were required to remain silent and were not allowed to check out reading material from the prison library. Outside of the penitentiary was the harbor guards tower which monitored the traffic to and from the island. It was also set up to ensure that prisoners did not escape.

Many of the structures were already in place when the island was a military prison. There were housing facilities which were also used as chapels and schools for the children of the officers that lived here. They were eventually converted into Bachelors Quarters for unmarried personnel when it became a Federal Penitentiary in the 1930s.

There was the Social Hall, also known as the Officer’s Club that had a small bar, library, dining facility and dance floor. The workers could also play ping pong, pool and bingo, view movies, and bowl in the two lane bowling alley. I can’t imagine living on the island with some of the worst criminals in history, let alone having a family here as well.

In 1970, during the Occupation of Alcatraz by the Native Americans, the Social Hall was burned down.

Over 1,545 prisoners would be incarcerated at Alcatraz during its 29 years as a Federal Prison. There were quite a few notorious inmates and many of them were considered dangerous and violent.

The average size cell was 5 feet by 9 feet. They each had a small sink with cold water, a toilet and a cot. There were a total of 336 cells in Blocks B & C, 36 segregation cells and 6 set aside for solitary confinement (D-Block). Cell Block A was only used on rare occasions when a prisoner needed to be separated from the other prisoners but did not require solitary.

Alcatraz became known as the penitentiary for the most dangerous inmates in the United States. Here is a summary of the inmates, their convictions and length of time they spent in Alcatraz.

George “Machine Gun” Kelly spent 17 (1934 – 1951) years here on a kidnapping conviction.
The most notorious prisoner was gangster Al “Scarface” Capone, who spent four-and-a-half years here from 1934 – 1939 on tax evasion charges. He was transferred from the Atlanta prison because he continued his criminal activities and was known to have corrupted prison officials to help him with his illegal conduct.
Murderer Robert Stroud, aka the “Birdman of Alcatraz,” came to Alcatraz in 1942 and stayed until 1959 for a total of 17 years. His nickname came from the birds that he was able to keep in the Leavenworth prison.
Meyer “Mickey” Cohen, imprisoned from 1961 to 1962 for racketeering was a gangster and part of the Jewish Mafia. He later became involved with the Los Angeles Crime Family, and was known as the “King of Los Angeles”. He later wrote a book about his experience at Alcatraz. He died of stomach cancer in 1976.
Gangster Alvin “Creepy Karpis” Karpowicz , listed as “Public Enemy No. 1″ by the FBI under J. Edgar Hoover, spent over 25 years (1936 – 1962) behind bars at Alcatraz, reportedly more time than any other prisoner. He was doing time for kidnapping and bank robbery.
Arthur “Doc” Barker was convicted of murder and Kidnapping, landing him at Alcatraz from 1936 – 1939. He died attempting to escape, when a gunshot wounded him in the head. He was recaptured, but died later from the wound.
Other prisoners of notoriety include Roy Gardner, James “Whitey” Bulger and Henri Young.

It is speculated, although not confirmed, that Cell Block 181 was where Capone was imprisoned during his stay in Alcatraz.

Once inside the confines of Alcatraz, there were strict rules and regulations. Life on the Rock was unbearable, so it would come as no surprise that there would be 14 known attempts to escape. Reports confirm that out of the 36 would-be escapees, 23 were captured, six were shot and killed during their attempt, two drowned and five that were unaccounted for and to this day remain “missing and presumed drowned”. Some sources state that two made it off the island successfully but were captured.

During the prison renovations, special gun galleries were created to protect the guards from the inmates and allow them to carry weapons. The galleries were secure, elevated and out of reach of the inmates. It was here that the cell block keys would be available and acted as a type of balcony so that the guards would be able to oversee the activities of the inmates. The gun gallery was also the location where guards would be able to set off the teargas canisters installed in the dining hall in the event of a riot or violent outbreak.

In 1910, the U.S. military made use of one of the island’s tunnels to create the morgue, equipped with an examination table and three vaults. According to the prison documents, the morgue on the island was only utilized if a death at the prison occurred once the last prison boat had left for the mainland. As a federal penitentiary, autopsies were not conducted at this location, but were instead performed by the San Francisco County Coroner.

On average there were approximately 300 civilians that actually lived on Alcatraz Island. This included the staff as well as women and children. Building #64 was the main living space for the families and there were three apartment buildings. They had access to a small grocery as well as a soda fountain shop. Because the prison boat made frequent trips between Alcatraz and the Van Ness Street Pier on a daily basis, the families did most of their shopping on the mainland. Not much remains of the Warden’s House today.

So what triggered the closing of the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary? What was once the main reason to create a prison on Alcatraz Island, would be the primary factor for the prison’s closure in 1963. Location. Operational costs were much higher than other prisons because additional expenses were incurred for transportation of inmates to and from the mainland, housing for staff and their families as well as importing food and supplies. In addition, the cost to maintain the prison structures was rising due to the deterioration of the facilities resulting from exposure to the salt in the air. It became the most expensive prison in the system.

Today, Alcatraz attracts approximately 1 million visitors per year…a premier tourist site with a dark history. Whether you come to learn more about the infamous prisoners, or to witness the island’s hauntings firsthand, you will not be disappointed.

Have you been to Alcatraz or another prison that you thought was interesting? I would love to hear about your experience so please ;eave me a message in the comments below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Alcatraz and wishing you many Happy Travels!

To confirm the ferry schedule, visit the Alcatraz Cruises (the official ferry service to the island) website, where you can also purchase tickets in advance. The ferry is located at Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 33.

What to See and What to Do:

Alcatraz Island
San Francisco, CA 94133
Telephone: 415 561 4900

Admission Fee: Early Bird Tour Adults: $38.35; Day Tour Adults: $38.35; Night Tour Adults: $45.50 Behind the Scenes Tour Adults: $90.95; Alcatraz and Angel Island Tour: $76.60 (5.5 hours) All Visitors: Refer to the Alcatraz Cruises website for additional discounts for Seniors and Children. www.alcatrazcruises.com
Potential Transportation Costs: Alcatraz Cruises is the only ferry transportation for Alcatraz. The cost for visiting Alcatraz includes the ferry fee.
Hours: The Early Bird Tour (2.5 hours long) departs at 8:45 AM. The Day Tours (2.5 hours long) depart at scheduled times between 9:10 AM to 1:35 PM. Night Tours (2.5 hours) depart at 3:50 PM and 4:45 PM while the Behind the Scenes Tour (4.5 hours) departs at 2:10 PM and 2:40 PM. Please refer to the Alcatraz Cruises website for any changes to the schedule.
Amenities: Night Tours and Behind the Scenes Tours are available as well as a tour that includes ferry transportation to Angel Island. Group Tours and Family Packs are also available online. Alcatraz hosts annual events as well as special events and exhibits which are posted on the Alcatraz Cruises website. Visitors can choose to participate in a guided tour or rent the cellhouse audio tour which are both very informative and don’t forget to watch the orientation video. There is also a museum collection at “The Rock” , and bookstore as well as the Alcatraz Gardens. Wheelchair accessible.
Scenic View: Views of the San Francisco skyline from the Ferry;
Length of Visit: Depending on the tour you select, the length of the visit which includes the ferry ride range from 3.5 hours to 7 hours.
Tips for Your Visit: There are some areas of Alcatraz that are off limits to visitors, so please respect the request of the park as some of these areas are unsafe. Do not feed the birds on Alcatraz. Bottled water is available at the bookstore on the dock, but food is not sold on the island. Food and drinks are only permitted on the dock.

Where to Stay:

San Remo Hotel
2237 Mason Street
San Francisco, CA 94133
Telephone: 415 776 8688

Where to Eat:

Fog Harbor Fish House
Pier 39
San Francisco, CA 94133
Telephone: 415 421 2442

The Fog Harbor House menu offers so many unique, amazing options, but I finally made my decision by ordering the Blue Cheese Garlic Bread made from sourdough topped with garlic and Pt. Reyes blue cheese and herbs. Of course I had to sample their award winning clam chowder, so I ditched the bowl and ordered a cup so I could order one last item on the menu and decided on the Linguini and Clams. Delicious!

What to Eat:

Seafood Chowder in a bread bowl
Dim Sum in San Francisco’s Chinatown
Oysters at Swan Oyster Depot or Hog Island Oyster Bar
Hot Fudge Sundae at Ghirardelli’s Ice Cream Shop

Where to Drink:

Iron Horse – Their signature drinks include the James Bond Martini, Goldfinger, Alice in Wonderland, Tiki Temple and Happy Fortune.

What to Read:

Cool Grey City of Love by Gary Kamiya
San Francisco Stories by Jack London
Zodiac by Robert Graysmith
Alcatraz-1259 by William Baker

Photo Guide for San Francisco:

Aquatic Park is the best place to photograph San Francisco’s waterfront
Broadway Street in North Beach for its neon signs and was formerly known as the area’s “red light district”
Chinatown is absolutely amazing for taking photos of America’s oldest Chinatown.
Coit Tower for 360 degree views of San Francisco and the harbor
de Young Museum Observation Deck located at Golden Gate Park is perfect for panoramic photos of the city. Bypass the line to enter the museum to reach the Hamon Observation Tower to take your photos.
Fort Point is a decommissioned military base on the waterfront which provides outstanding views of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge
The Marin Headlands is one of the best places to photograph the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge
Treasure Island for spectacular views of San Francisco’s skyline
See the entire city of San Francisco from Twin Peaks

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Alcatraz is home to the West Coast’s oldest operating lighthouse

Alcatraz Tunnel Circa 1886

The water tower and the chimney of the powerhouse