Alcatraz

Clint Eastwood starred in the thriller "Escape from Alcatraz" in 1979. Alcatraz is a genuine location that used to be a working jail where notorious criminals like Al Capone were kept. While several rooms had to be reconstructed at Paramount in Hollywood, the majority of the film was really filmed on Alcatraz Island, a former prison in San Francisco Bay. Extensive repairs were required for the dilapidated building, which fortunately helped to keep it as a tourist destination.

The paint used to restore the site to its earlier appearance, though, needed to be easily removable so as not to obscure graffiti left from the 1969-71 occupation of the island by Native Americans, now regarded as an important part of the island's history. Beginning in 1934, the island served as a Federal prison, serving essentially as a holding area for undesirable prisoners.

Currently a national park, Alcatraz is accessible from San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf by boat. You may view the dummy head that was used in the actual escape as part of the intriguing tour. Trips are understandably popular, so it's best to plan ahead if you want to avoid disappointment.

Location: San Francisco, California