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Prison Museums You Can Visit Across The US

can you tour prisons

With over 100,000 prisons and jails around the globe, historic jail cells and prison museums have become a huge draw for tourists, and the US is no different – the states has over a dozen historic prisons to discover. From Alcatraz Island’s remote location off the shores of San Francisco to Eastern State Penitentiary’s famous haunted cells, learn about the histories and tales that characterize the past of these seven U.S. prisons.

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Alcatraz, California

can you tour prisons

Alcatraz is reputed to have housed some of the most dangerous prisoners of the 20th century, including mobster Al Capone and gangster Alvin Karpowicz ; referred to as ‘the prison system’s prison,’ Alcatraz received the most difficult inmates. Built on an island off the coast of San Francisco, ‘The Rock,’ as it was nicknamed, made for a challenging escape, although over a dozen attempts were made – none of which were successful. Alcatraz was originally built in the 1850s as a U.S. military fortress and housed military prisoners until 1933, when it was renovated as a maximum-security prison. Alcatraz could hold 260–275 prisoners during its time of operation, less than one percent of the entire federal inmate population, but officially closed its doors in 1963 due to its high operating costs.

The Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia is a National Historic Landmark

Eastern State Penitentiary (ESP) was part of a controversial movement in the early 1800s that advocated the use of solitary confinement and hard labor to alter the behavior of inmates. Designed in a ‘radial-style’ floor plan, ESP was one of the most costly buildings of its time, with vaulted ceilings, skylights, and 253 cells, each with its own toilet, running water, and heat. The layout and practices at ESP were so popular that they were replicated in over 300 other prisons worldwide; by the early 1930s, however, the prison abandoned the solitary confinement system, replacing it with other severe forms of punishment. Operating from 1829–1971, the prison held some of the nation’s most infamous criminals, including Al Capone (before his time at Alcatraz) and Willie Sutton ; today, it’s considered one of the most haunted buildings in the world.

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Sing Sing Prison, New York

Home to the first electric chair (‘Old Sparky’), the famous Babe Ruth baseball game , and some of the nation’s most notorious criminals, like Albert Fish and David Berkowitz , Sing Sing is one of America’s most famous prisons. Built by 100 prisoners from another local prison, Sing Sing was one of the most impressive prisons of its kind upon its completion in 1828. Originally modeled after Captain Elam Lynds’ ‘silent system’ – the use of ‘hard work, community activity and silent reflection’ to alter inmate behavior – the prison eventually moved to a more modern approach that used sports to teach discipline, introduced by Warden Lewis Lawes . While the prison still holds more than 1,500 inmates today, plans for turning the prison’s 1939 power plant into a 22,000-square-foot museum are in the making. Visit the museum in the meantime, located in The Ossining Historical Society Museum .

can you tour prisons

Ohio State Reformatory, Ohio

Ohio State Reformatory, Ohio

The Ohio State Reformatory , also known as the Mansfield Reformatory, was constructed between 1886 and 1910 to act as an ‘intermediate penitentiary’, or the half-way point between the Boys Industrial School and the Ohio Penitentiary. In the mid-1800s, the land was originally used as Civil War training grounds; in 1884, plans for the new prison were approved by the state. Designed by Levi T. Scofield, the reformatory featured Victorian and Romanesque architectural styles, believed to encourage inmates to get in touch with their spiritual side. In 1990, the Boyd Consent Decree deemed the prison overcrowded and unsanitary – over 200 inmates had died during its operation – forcing it to close its doors. Today, the prison operates as a museum, and has been included in many famous films like The Shawshank Redemption ( 1994).

West Virginia State Penitentiary, West Virginia

After separating from Virginia at the height of the Civil War, West Virginia lacked many public institutions, including a prison. After repeated denials, the West Virginia Legislature finally purchased the land for the West Virginia State Penitentiary in 1886. Completed using prison labor in 1887, the prison’s design featured stone walls and Gothic architectural elements like turrets and battlements, modeled after a prison in Illinois , and included a hospital and chapel, adding a school and library later on. There were other services, like a carpentry shop and bakery, that provided jobs for inmates, making the prison self-sufficient. Despite its good conditions at the turn of the century, the prison went into a state of decline: there were over 36 homicides, a prison break in 1979, and a riot in 1986. The prison was ordered to shut down by the Supreme Court in 1986; it officially closed its doors in 1995. It was listed as one of the US Department of Justice’s Top Ten Most Violent Correctional Facilities and played host to 94 executions from 1899–1959: 85 by hanging and nine by electric chair. It is also considered one of America’s most haunted prisons.

Old Idaho Penitentiary, Idaho

Old Idaho Penitentiary , once known as the Territorial Prison, was constructed in 1872 as a single-cell house; over the years, the prison expanded to include several buildings, as well as a 17-foot-high wall surrounding the complex. Over 101 years, until it closed in 1973, the Old Idaho Penitentiary received over 13,000 inmates, 215 of them women, and housed infamous convicts like Harry Orchard and Lyda ‘Lady Bluebeard’ Southard . The prison, however, was known for having unsuitable living conditions, and many inmates responded to these conditions with riots in 1971 and 1973. After its closing in 1973, the prison was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Yuma Territorial Prison, Arizona

Yuma Territorial Prison , now a historic state park , opened its doors in 1876, and its first inmates were seven men who were responsible for constructing the prison. During its 33 years of operation, the prison housed 3,069 prisoners, 29 of them women, and despite its infamous reputation, it is said to have had humane conditions – prisoners made hand-crafted items that were sold at Sunday public markets and they received regular medical attention; the prison also had one of the first public libraries in the territory, where prisoners learned how to read and write. No executions took place here, but over 26 inmates escaped and over 100 died (most from tuberculosis). By the turn of the century, the prison was overcrowded, so a new facility was built in Florence, Arizona , and the prison officially ceased operations in 1909.

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Five of the Most Fascinating Prison Museums in America

From Alcatraz to Cell Block 7, these jails now hold tours instead of prisoners

Jennifer Billock

Jennifer Billock

Travel Correspondent

Alcatraz.jpg

Since the 1980s, mass incarceration has become a booming business in the United States, with 670 people out of every 100,000 becoming a prisoner. And it’s not because we have more criminals, either—research shows that this change is thanks to alterations of sentencing law and policy. The boom has led to prison overcrowding , which in the 1990s meant we needed to build bigger and better prisons. Many states simply didn’t have the capital to remodel or demolish the prisons. So instead, they turned to dark tourism.

Dark tourism is the travel industry surrounding places that are linked to suffering or death—think Chernobyl and the Sedlec Ossuary , a "church of bones" in the Czech Republic. Abandoned prisons easily fell in line with that ethos, and so in order to save the costs of drastically altering or removing a building, prison museums began to open inside the former facilities. With some dating back 180 years, these prison museums offer a fascinating look into the lives of some of our country's most notorious prisoners.

Squirrel Cage Jail; Council Bluffs, Iowa

Five of the Most Fascinating Prison Museums in America

Built in 1885, this Iowa jail was one of the most unique styles in prison history. It’s a rotary jail—meaning the facility has a cylinder of pie-shaped cells attached to a central pole. When the warden turned a hand crank, the entire jail shifted, locking prisoners away without access to a door. It was meant to be a simple way to control an entire jail at once. Many of these types of jails popped up in the Midwest in the late 1800s. Squirrel Cage was the only one with three stories. This unique style of jail fell out of fashion thanks to accidental amputations when the cells turned, poor lighting and ventilation, mechanical issues and fire hazards. Only three of the original 18 or so built remain, and they all operate as museums: Squirrel Cage, Gallatin and Montgomery County (which is the only one that can still rotate).

Alcatraz; San Francisco, California

Five of the Most Fascinating Prison Museums in America

Alcatraz may only have operated federally from 1934 to 1963, but it quickly took its place as one of the most infamous prisons in the world. Al Capone faced time here, as did killer Robert Stroud. Prior to "The Rock" as we know it today, though, Alcatraz Island served as a military prison in the 1800s. Inmates consistently worked to build new cellblocks, and when the work finished in 1912, it was the largest reinforced concrete building in the world. The prison finally shut down in 1963, when it became too expensive to operate as the salty sea wind was causing buildings to deteriorate. Now, several tour options of the facility are available, and it sees about a million tourists come through each year.

The Wyoming Frontier Prison; Rawlins, Wyoming

Five of the Most Fascinating Prison Museums in America

When construction on Wyoming’s first state prison began in 1888, it was meant to handle the criminals of the wild west—but thanks to weather and funding problems, it didn’t actually open until 1901, when the wild ways were on the decline. Still, the prison stayed open for about 80 years and housed around 13,500 prisoners. In the beginning, it had no electricity, minimal heating and no running water. The Wyoming Frontier Prison (named so in 1988) was more than just cellblocks, though. It also had a dungeon, a punishment pole that men were handcuffed to and then whipped, solitary confinement cells, and a building with six cells for death row inmates called the death house. The penitentiary closed for good in 1981. Today’s tours include the prison itself, a museum about peace officers, a gift shop and the old prison cemetery.

Cell Block 7; Jackson, Michigan

michigan

To get to Cell Block 7 , you’ll have to actually go into the real State Prison of Southern Michigan. Its first iteration was built in 1839, a small log building that could only hold 35 prisoners. By 1934, though, the prison had evolved into a massive fortress housing more than 5,000 inmates. With Cell Block 7 included, it became the world’s largest walled prison, though it no longer holds that distinction. Cell Block 7 closed in 2007, and it now exists as a museum within the walls of the still working state prison. The museum today runs tours and holds a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits, like one about the prison farm and another on prison-made furniture.

Museum of Colorado Prisons; Cañon City, Colorado

colorado

The Museum of Colorado Prisons isn’t exactly inside a working prison like Cell Block 7, but it is adjacent to one—the Colorado Territorial Correctional Facility. This museum is in what used to be the women’s prison, and it shares a wall—and a tower with armed guards—with the current prison. The facility was built in 1871. Now, the former women’s prison houses 30 cells, all outfitted with unique exhibits related to incarceration in Colorado over the past 148 years. Visitors will also learn about famous past inmates, like convicted cannibal Alfred Packer , and see prison artifacts like a hangman’s noose and a gas chamber.

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Decommissioned Prison Chateau d'If in Marseille, France

The Château d'If looms over the Bay of Marseille in France.

7 Old Prisons That Are Open to Visitors

Get a glimpse of the brutalities endured behind the walls of these now defunct institutions around the world.

A wooden chair sits under a spotlight in the Texas Prison Museum in Huntsville, on display in the same unassuming manner one might see a French neoclassical armchair in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Instead of guilloches and pearls, this particular chair is adorned with leather straps, which were used to restrain the wrists and ankles of hundreds of inmates while electricity passed through their bodies. Decades after Old Sparky was retired, visitors can see the unsettling display for themselves.

Prisons, like other historical sites, provide a unique window into a country’s political history, views on crime and punishment, and laws governing freedom and human rights. Each year millions of people trickle through the shadowy halls of decommissioned prisons around the world to learn their grim histories.

Robben Island, South Africa

Located off the coast of Cape Town , this UNESCO World Heritage site has served as a leper hospital, military base, and most infamously, a maximum security prison for political prisoners during apartheid, South Africa’s state-sanctioned system of racial segregation. Robben Island’s somber history finally came to an end in the 1990s, when South Africa’s oppressive regime was dismantled and political prisoners were freed. Anti-apartheid revolutionary Nelson Mandela , who served 18 years on Robben Island, went on to become the country's first black president in its first fully representative democratic election in 1994.

Lesser known fact: Robben Island is home to a colony of African penguins, an endangered species.

How to visit : Boats travel from Cape Town to Robben Island three times a day (four during peak season), and rides take about 30 minutes each way. Tours last around four hours and cost about $23 for adults and $13 for children.

Old Melbourne Gaol, Australia

Between 1842 and 1929, Old Melbourne Gaol housed Australia ’s most notorious criminals, such as bushranger Ned Kelly and serial killer Frederick Bailey Deeming. During its tenure, 133 prisoners were executed by hanging and buried in unmarked graves in the prison yard. One of the gaol’s most notable exhibits is its collection of death masks . After a prisoner was executed, his head was shaved, and plaster was applied to the face and head in order to create a mask. Historians believe the state may have created these as a power symbol—a representation of its triumph over crime. The masks were also used in the pseudoscientific study of phrenology, which held that the physical formations of the skull and face were indicative of a person’s character.

Lesser known fact: A women’s cell block wasn’t constructed until late 1864. Prior to this, women, children, and men were housed together.

How to visit: Old Melbourne Gaol is open daily from 9:30 a.m. until 5 p.m., except on Christmas Day and Good Friday, and can be easily reached via public transit . Adult admission is $19, and for children admission costs $10. Visitors should plan to spend at least one and a half hours at the site.

Alcatraz, United States

One of the most notorious prisons in the United States, the Rock was originally used as a military fortress and prison in the 1850s, and later operated as a federal penitentiary from 1934 to 1963. The prison housed prominent inmates like Al "Scarface" Capone and Machine Gun Kelly. Its secluded location surrounded by the chilly waters of the San Francisco Bay were thought to render the prison inescapable. In 1962 inmates John Anglin, Clarence Anglin, and Frank Morris tested this theory when they tucked papier-mâché heads into their beds, broke out of the main prison, and escaped the island on a raft made of raincoats. Their fate remains unknown to this day.

Alcatraz in San Francisco Bay, California

Alcatraz Island sits in the San Francisco Bay in California.

Lesser known fact: Each year hundreds of athletes participate in the Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon in San Francisco, a one-and-a-half-mile swim, 18-mile bike ride, and eight-mile run.

How to visit: All access to the island is through Alcatraz Cruises , which operates out of Pier 33 in San Francisco. Day and night tours are offered year-round, with the exception of some holidays. Tickets often sell out, so book in advance. Plan on spending around two hours for a full tour.

Elmina Castle, Ghana

This UNESCO World Heritage site was built by the Portuguese in 1482 on the Gulf of Guinea and is believed to be the location where Europeans first made contact with sub-Saharan Africans. Occupied by several colonial powers throughout the centuries, this trading post eventually became a significant stop in the transatlantic slave trade. Tens of thousands of Africans were captured and detained, and eventually passed through Elmina’s “door of no return” to be loaded onto slave ships and sold throughout Europe and its colonies.

Lesser known fact: Elmina Castle is one of the oldest European buildings located outside of Europe.

How to visit: Elmina Castle is easily accessible by taxi from the historic city of Cape Coast in the central region of Ghana, about three hours west of Accra. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. Admission is $10 for non-Ghanaian adults and two dollars for non-Ghanaian children.

Tuol Sleng, Cambodia

When the genocidal Khmer Rouge took power in Cambodia in 1975, this former high school was converted into Security Prison 21, a detention center that facilitated the torture and murder of thousands of people. Thirty minutes south of the prison, mutilated bodies of men, women, and children were dumped in mass graves in the Choeung Ek killing fields. After the fall of the regime in 1979, Tuol Sleng was turned into a museum to remember the victims of the genocide and the horrors inflicted by the Khmer Rouge, responsible for the deaths of an estimated 1.7 million people during its reign.

the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Visitors walk through one of the exhibitions in the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Lesser known fact: Actress Angelina Jolie is directing a new Netflix film based on the memoir First They Killed My Father : A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers by human rights activist Loung Ung, who lived under the Khmer Rouge as a child. The film is set for release in late 2016 in both English and Khmer.

How to visit: Tuol Sleng is located in the capital city of Phnom Penh and can be easily reached by tuk-tuk or taxi from the city center. Drive another 30 minutes south to the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center for a sobering history lesson.

Devil’s Island, French Guiana

This penal colony located off the picturesque Atlantic coast of French Guiana was constructed in the early 1850s under the orders of French emperor Napoleon III. For nearly a century, the colony, which spanned three islands in addition to mainland facilities, housed tens of thousands of convicted criminals and political prisoners who were banished to serve out their sentences doing hard labor. Prisoners were assigned to work camps stretching across the islands, where they spent long, strenuous hours clearing jungle, building roads, and constructing their own cell blocks. Shark-infested waters, unforgiving terrain, and the threat of tropical disease made hopes of escaping the prison’s brutal conditions a deadly task.

Lesser known fact : After 11 years on Devil’s Island, prisoner Henri Charrière escaped to Venezuela on a raft made of coconuts. His autobiography inspired the 1973 movie Papillon , starring Steve McQueen and Dustin Hoffman.

How to visit : From the capital city of Cayenne, visitors can take an hour-long bus ride to the town of Kourou. From Kourou dock, a number of boat companies offer daylong tours of the islands.

Château d’If, France

This 16th-century fortress turned prison was made famous by Alexandre Dumas’s 1844 revenge novel, The Count of Monte Cristo . The chateau’s isolated location among the strong currents of the Bay of Marseille made it an ideal location to discard religious and political prisoners. Its imposing stone walls housed prisoners in cramped, unsanitary conditions for nearly three centuries until it was closed in the late 19th century and opened to the public as a tourist attraction.

Lesser known fact: Edmond Dantès, the vengeful protagonist of Dumas’s novel, did not actually exist.

How to visit: Take a 20-minute ferry ride from the Old Port of Marseille to Château d’If . The island’s operating hours vary seasonally, so check schedules before you go. Citizens of the European Union and children under 18 get free admission to the monument itself, and adults pay about $6.

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Prison Query

Can You Tour A Prison?

Prisons have long been a subject of curiosity for many people. The idea of stepping into a place that is usually inaccessible to the public can be both intriguing and intimidating. One common question that arises is, “Can you tour a prison?” In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the possibility of touring a prison and explore the various aspects surrounding this topic.

Visiting a prison can provide a unique perspective on the criminal justice system and the lives of incarcerated individuals. However, the availability of prison tours depends on several factors, such as the type of prison, its location, and the specific policies in place.

State and Federal Prisons

State and federal prisons are generally more restrictive when it comes to allowing tours for the general public. Due to security concerns and the need to maintain order within the facility, these prisons often limit access to authorized personnel only. Visitors are typically restricted to designated areas, such as visitor centers, where they can interact with inmates under strict supervision.

Historical Prisons and Museums

On the other hand, some former prisons have been repurposed as historical sites or museums. These institutions often offer guided tours that provide valuable insights into the history and operations of the prison. Visitors can learn about famous inmates, significant events, and the evolution of the correctional system. Alcatraz Island in San Francisco and Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia are prime examples of such prison-turned-tourist attractions.

Local Jails and Correctional Facilities

Local jails and correctional facilities may have more flexible policies regarding tours. These facilities often work closely with the community and may organize educational programs or open houses to increase public awareness. Contacting the administration or the public relations department of a local jail can provide information about potential tour opportunities.

Benefits of Touring a Prison

There are several benefits to touring a prison. For one, it can be a valuable educational experience, allowing visitors to learn more about the criminal justice system and the lives of inmates. Additionally, touring a prison can help to dispel myths and misconceptions about life behind bars. Finally, touring a prison can be an eye-opening experience, providing visitors with a new perspective on the importance of rehabilitation and the challenges faced by those who have been incarcerated.

Drawbacks of Touring a Prison

While touring a prison can be an enriching experience, it is not without its drawbacks. For one, some visitors may find the experience to be unsettling or even traumatic. Additionally, some prisons may have restrictions on the areas that can be toured, limiting the overall experience. Finally, touring a prison may be seen as exploitative by some, as it involves the public being allowed to view the lives of individuals who have been stripped of their freedom.

Types of Prison Tours

Historic Prison Tours: These tours focus on former prisons that have been converted into museums or historic sites. Visitors can explore the prison grounds, see the cells, and learn about the facility’s history. Alcatraz Island in San Francisco and Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia are popular examples.

Active Prison Tours: Some prisons offer guided tours while still functioning as correctional facilities. These tours provide a glimpse into the daily operations of a prison, including cell blocks, common areas, and sometimes interaction with inmates. However, the level of access may vary, and visitors are typically accompanied by staff or security personnel. Examples include the Angola Prison in Louisiana and the Oregon State Penitentiary.

Behind-the-Scenes Tours: Some prisons offer specialized tours that provide a more in-depth look into the facility’s operations and specific aspects of the correctional system. These tours may focus on areas such as the intake process, solitary confinement units, or rehabilitation programs. They aim to educate visitors about the challenges and realities of incarceration.

Virtual Tours: With advancements in technology, virtual prison tours have become increasingly popular. These online experiences allow people to explore prisons remotely through 360-degree videos or virtual reality simulations. Virtual tours provide an opportunity to learn about prison conditions and history without physically visiting the facility.

Exploring the Prison Tour Experience

If you are fortunate enough to participate in a prison tour, it is essential to know what to expect and how to make the most of the experience. Let’s explore some aspects of the prison tour journey:

Security Measures and Regulations

Entering a prison environment requires adherence to strict security measures and regulations. Visitors are typically subjected to thorough security screenings, including metal detectors and bag checks, to ensure the safety of everyone involved. It is crucial to follow all instructions provided by the tour guides and prison staff to maintain order and security.

Guided Tours and Interpretive Programs

Prison tours often involve knowledgeable guides who provide historical context and insights into the daily life of inmates. These guides may be former correctional officers or individuals well-versed in the prison’s history. Their expertise enhances the tour experience by offering valuable anecdotes and answering questions.

Restricted Areas and Inmate Interactions

While some prison tours allow visitors to explore certain areas, access to restricted zones is typically prohibited for safety reasons. Interactions with inmates may be limited to designated spaces, such as visitor centers or communal areas. It is essential to respect the privacy and dignity of the incarcerated individuals encountered during the tour.

Educational and Rehabilitation Focus

Many prison tours emphasize education and rehabilitation. They aim to educate the public about the challenges faced by inmates and the efforts made to reintegrate them into society upon release. By promoting understanding and empathy, these tours contribute to broader conversations surrounding criminal justice reform.

FAQs about Prison Tours

Let’s address some frequently asked questions about prison tours:

Can you tour a maximum-security prison?

Touring a maximum-security prison is highly unlikely due to the heightened security measures in place.

Are all prisons open to tours?

No, not all prisons are open to tours. Some may have restrictions on who is allowed to visit, or may not offer tours at all.

How long do prison tours typically last?

The length of a prison tour can vary depending on the facility and the type of tour. Guided tours may last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours.

Is it safe to tour a prison?

While prisons are generally secure facilities, visitors may be required to follow certain safety protocols during a tour. These may include being escorted by staff members or being searched before entering the facility.

Can you request a special tour for educational purposes?

Yes, some prisons may offer special educational tours for schools or other groups. These tours may provide more in-depth information about the criminal justice system and the lives of inmates. It’s best to contact the prison directly to inquire about these types of tours.

Can you visit a prison with a criminal record?

A visitor with criminal records is not automatically disqualified to visit a prison, but it has some considerations.

In conclusion, touring a prison can be an educational and eye-opening experience for those who are interested in the criminal justice system. Whether you choose a guided tour, a self-guided tour, or a virtual tour, there are a variety of options available to suit your needs. However, it is important to be aware of the potential drawbacks of touring a prison, including the emotional toll it may take and the potential for exploitation. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide whether or not touring a prison is something they feel comfortable with.

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My name is Reilly and I'm the author behind the blog that gives information about prison. With years of experience working in the prison system, I have a deep understanding of the challenges and issues that inmates and prison staff face every day. I hope to shed light on the realities of life behind bars.

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Explore Eastern State's historic cellblocks. Learn about the history of the penitentiary and its relevance today.

Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is currently open Wednesday through Monday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The penitentiary is closed on Tuesdays and on the following holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

Tickets are available  online  or at the door, subject to availability.

All of our daytime programming ( “The Voices of Eastern State" Audio Tour ,  Guide-Led Tour and Discussion , Hands-On History experiences, artist installations , and  exhibits ) is included in one admission price.

Planning a visit to Eastern State? Be sure to check out our Plan Your Visit page . It includes information about when to arrive, where to park, what to expect of the tour, and much more.

Discounted tickets are available for groups of 15 or more .

2017 American Aliance of Museums Excellence in Exhibitions Overall Winner

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Prison Fellowship

How to Prepare for a Prison Visit

Visiting a family member in prison presents its own bundle of challenges. Just knowing what to expect can reduce stress. Being prepared can raise the bar for positive visitation experiences, possibly snowballing into more visits, and hopefully, improved relationships.

Since studies point to lower recidivism rates for prisoners who stay connected to supportive family members, positive prison visits end up benefiting everyone: prisoners, families, and the community. For the 1.5 million children and youth who have at least one incarcerated parent, visiting their parent(s) can strengthen family bonds.

To be prepared, consider the following information the first time visiting someone in prison. Please keep in mind that rules vary among prisons.

BEFORE VISITING PRISON

Be approved.

Be sure your name is on the prisoner's pre-approved visiting list for people age 18 and older. Information on the form allows officials to do background checks to approve or deny visitation. Most facilities require this form, but verify with the facility to be sure. Some facilities also require an authorization form for children.

Check the facility's visitation hours, which are typically weekends and holidays, and possibly additional days depending on the facility and security level. Visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons'  website to see a list of federal prisons; for state or private prisons, directly contact the facility.

BE AWARE OF WHAT YOU CAN BRING

Check the facility's policy for what is allowed in the visiting room. Generally, visitors can only bring in identification (such as a driver's license), a single car key, eyeglasses, small bills, or change for vending machines (if applicable) in visitation rooms.

No medications, tobacco products, or any illegal substances are allowed. Cell phones or other electronic devices are also not permitted.

Other restrictions might include rules about bringing in food or gifts.

DURING THE PRISON VISIT

Dress appropriately.

Wear appropriate clothing. Avoid provocative, revealing items and anything similar to prison clothing such as khaki or green military-type. Visitors may be denied access if dress code policies are violated.

ARRIVE EARLY

Give yourself an extra 15-20 minutes to fill out paperwork. Be prepared to be searched before being admitted into the visiting room. Searches may include a pat down by an officer of the same gender and a pass through a metal detector. All visitors must be searched, including children.

Before bringing children, consider visiting alone first so you can explain what to expect.

BE RESPECTFUL

Show courtesy to all correctional staff, other visitors, and prisoners to ensure a positive visiting experience for everyone.

SHOW AFFECTION IN MODERATION

Handshakes, hugs, and affection (in good taste) are usually allowed at the beginning and end of a visit.

To keep the visiting area orderly and to prevent the distribution of contraband, security staff may limit physical contact.

SUPERVISE CHILDREN

Be aware of you and your children's behavior to avoid the risk of losing visiting privileges.

BE A GOOD LISTENER

Extend a listening ear to the prisoner you are visiting. A little understanding can go a long way.

AFTER THE PRISON VISIT

Mail a letter to the prisoner to continue building the relationship. Be sure to check with the facility first to ensure permission.

Encourage the prisoner to get involved in prison programs to cope with prison life and to take reentry classes for a successful reentry plan. Prison Fellowship ® offers several in-prison programs —ranging from faith-based seminars to life-skills classes—in prisons across the country.

GET INVOLVED

Explore involvement in a local church that provides support for prisoners, former prisoners, and their families. Check out Prison Fellowship's efforts in reentry , church and community engagement, and Angel Tree ® .

Consider involvement in Celebrate Recovery , a nationwide Christ-centered recovery program that is forward-looking and emphasizes personal responsibility and spiritual growth.

Or check out an online support group such as DailyStrenth that is dedicated to families impacted by incarceration, or the National Association for Christian Recovery that provides resources and free online training in topics including 12-step recovery, parenting addicted children, recovering from childhood trauma, etc.

Finally, be a part of Prison Fellowship's Second Prison Project™ . Find out how you can help your loved one and others with reentry and adjusting to life with a criminal record.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Visiting loved ones in prison can lead to stronger relationships and help beat the odds of someone returning to prison. And that's definitely raising the bar for good.

Other helpful websites include Assisting Families of Inmates and PrisonPro.com .

JOIN OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY

Recommended links.

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JOIN RESTORATION PARTNERS AND WITNESS GOD RESTORE LIVES

Restoration Partners give monthly to bring life-changing prison ministry programs to incarcerated men and women across the country.

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Six Western Prison Tours for Groups

Affinity Travel , Magazine Features

Western prison tours

These former penitentiaries are home to history, mystery and even paranormal activity. They also offer prison tours for adventurous travelers

Few would consider visiting a former prison when planning a trip, but these six Western prisons will make planners reconsider that line of thinking. After all, with these prison tours, visitors can hear stories of the wicked, walk among ghosts and learn about the early days of America’s prison system. Alcatraz, Old Idaho Penitentiary, Yuma Territorial Prison, Missouri State Penitentiary, Wyoming Territorial Prison and Old Montana Prison are places of history, mystery and even paranormal activity.

Alcatraz Prison Tours

Alcatraz Island in San Francisco is a place where many histories have unfolded. Before Alcatraz, otherwise known as The Rock, was home to the likes of Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly, it served as a fortress to protect the San Francisco Bay from pirates and later housed military prisoners during the Civil War. The former prison became a symbol for Native American plight when the Indians of All Tribes occupied the island in 1969. It should come as no surprise that today, some 1.5 million tourists flock to this historic site each year. Alcatraz prison tours include a boat trip to and from the island, the cell house audio tour (included in the price of the ferry ticket) and much more.

Alcatraz offers famous prison tours to individuals and groups

Inside Missouri State Penitentiary

One of the main attractions of Jefferson City, Missouri , the Missouri State Penitentiary attracts visitors from across the globe as they enjoy history and photography tours that tell of executions, notable women and the riot of 1954. In its heyday, it was named by Time Magazine as “The bloodiest 47 acres in America.” Constructed in 1836, this prison operated for 168 years until its decommissioning in 2004. These centennial cells held criminals such as James Earl Ray, who shook the nation at the height of the Civil Rights Movement. Guests looking for a close encounter with the paranormal will be delighted with the Ghost & Paranormal Tour which highlights mysterious occurrences that took place in MSP. “The Missouri State Penitentiary offers both private and public history, ghost and photography tours from March to November,” said Jordan Rowles, convention/group sales manager for the Jefferson City Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Many of the MSP tour staff worked at the prison in some capacity prior to its decommissioning, so their personal experience with the penitentiary provides a unique insight to life inside The Walls.”

Missouri State Penitentiary offers prison tours

Touring the Old Idaho Penitentiary

Also known as the Territorial Prison, Old Idaho Penitentiary in Boise, Idaho has a history of 101 years of operation and received more than 13,000 inmates. Originally constructed in 1872 as a single cell-house, it grew to include several buildings which today hold a variety of educational exhibits. Tour Old Pen’s Solitary Confinement, cell blocks and the Gallows and hear stories of famous inmates such as Harry Orchard and Lady Bluebeard. Be sure to check out the J. Curtis Earl Memorial Exhibit, a collection of historic arms and military memorabilia which dates back as far as 3500 B.C.

Inside Old Montana Prison

Today, within the convict-constructed sandstone walls of Old Montana Prison is Powell County Museum, Frontier Montana Museum, Yesterday’s Playthings and the Montana Auto Museum. The first territorial  prison in the western United States tells of the order in the Wild West. This medieval structure was constructed in 1871, before Montana achieved statehood in 1889, due to an influx of lawless men (and some women) drawn to the West by the promise of gold, and would remain in operation for 100 years. Here, guests have the benefit of choosing guided and/or self-guided prison tours. Visitors will walk through the cellblocks such as the famous Cell No. 1, which was occupied by murderer Paul “Turkey Pete” Eitner.

Wyoming Territorial Prison Tours

Prison tours are offered at Wyoming Territorial Prison

Photo courtesy of Wyoming Territorial Prison

A fast draw between outlaws and lawmen in Wyoming prompted the construction of this prison in 1872. This former prison held “evil doers of all kinds and classes” during its 30 years of operation. Here, guests learn about gunslingers such as Butch Cassidy, who were legends of the Wild West. During self-guided prison tours through the oldest building in Wyoming, visitors will get to explore furnished cells, the prisoners’ dining area, guards’ quarters, infirmary, women’s quarters, laundry room, warden’s office and various exhibit galleries.

Exploring Yuma Territorial Prison

Arizona’s territory’s first prison, Yuma Territorial Prison is a living museum of the Old West. Constructed in 1876 by its first inmates, it operated for 33 years until it shut down in 1909. It was a criminal’s paradise— prisoners crafted, learned to read and write and were given good medical support. This historic site is in operation today as a 3,600-square-foot museum with exhibits on Yuma’s history and holds recently discovered prison artifacts. Touring this historic state park includes walking through outside buildings and features original cellblocks, the water tank, guard tower, sally port (entrance gate), library room, the dark cell, new yard and cells.

By Gabriela Bittencourt

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Federal Bureau of Prisons

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Visiting Information

How to send things here, resources for sentenced inmates.

  • Other facilities in this complex
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  • Visiting Overview How to visit an inmate. This covers the basic fundamentals that apply to all of our institutions. The BOP welcomes visitors to our institutions. We remind all visitors to carefully review our visiting regulations and to observe any applicable state and local travel advisories in planning your visit.
  • Visiting Schedule & Procedures Official policy at that outlines the specific regulations and procedures for visiting an inmate at this facility. Also available in Spanish: Regulaciones de Visitas
  • Resources for Media Representatives Conditions under which qualified media representatives may visit institutions.

Visiting Schedule

Notice about visiting hours.

These visiting hours are displayed in an easy to read format for your convenience. They represent the most typical visiting hours at this facility but may not cover all cases; for example, inmates confined to a special housing unit will usually have a modified visiting schedule.

For this reason, you should confirm these visiting hours and other important visiting information by referring to this facility's official policy about these matters: Visiting Regulations

Additionally, the Warden may restrict or cancel visiting for the sake of safety and security; for example, cases of severe weather or other incidents that will impact normal operations at facility. Therefore, it's recommended that you call the facility to confirm the visiting schedule before departing for your visit: 603-342-4000 .

Use the address below to send correspondence and parcels to inmates. Learn more about sending mail

Do NOT send money to an inmate using this facility's address. All funds sent through the mail must be addressed to a processing center in Des Moines, Iowa. This applies to all Federal inmates, regardless of where they are incarcerated.

Learn more about sending funds to an inmate

Use the following address when shipping freight & non-USPS parcels:

Use the following address when sending correspondence and parcels to staff:

Admissions and Orientation (A&O) Handbook

This document provides you with general information about the institution, programs, rules, and regulations that you will encounter during your confinement. Familiarizing yourself with this information and knowing your responsibilities will help you adjust to institution life.

  • Admissions & Orientation Handbook

Commissary List

In 1930 the Department of Justice authorized and established a Commissary at each Federal institution. The Commissary provides a bank type account for your money & for the procurement of articles not issued regularly as part of the institution administration. Funds deposited by your family, friends, or other sources are stored in your commissary account that we maintain.

  • List and prices of items sold at the commissary in

Legal Activities

This document outlines the procedures for access to legal reference materials and legal counsel, and the opportunities that you will be afforded to prepare legal documents while incarcerated.

  • Inmate Legal Activities at

PREA Report

This report, posted on May 1, 2023, as required per 28 CFR �115.403, details the findings of an audit that was conducted by an outside contractor to determine the Federal Bureau of Prisons? (BOP) compliance with the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA). As the work product of independent auditors subcontracted by PREA Auditors of America (PAOA), the BOP is not responsible for grammatical or typographical errors. Additionally, any questions or comments regarding the discrepancies or inaccuracies found within this report should be directed to PAOA at (713) 818-9098, or to the subcontracted independent auditor (name and email address can be found on page one of the report), for explanation and resolution.

Other facilities at the Federal Correctional Complex

can you tour prisons

can you tour prisons

Tours run from March - November each year. There are no tours during December, January or February .

Missouri State Penitentiary

Infamous Prison Tours

Lock up your tour.

Ready to discover the history of Missouri’s prison that was once called “the bloodiest 47 acres in America?” We have three fun and unique ways to explore this infamous landmark. With our history tours, learn all about the facility and its notorious inmates. Are you an aspiring ghost hunter who wants a fun and frightening experience? We have ghost hunting and paranormal investigation tours that will guarantee a “spooktacular” time. And if you’re a shutterbug looking to snap some unique photos for your portfolio, our private photography tours let you see MSP through a whole new lens. Just select your tour type and see history come alive!

jefferson city penitentiary tour

History Tours

Learn More »

Ghost & Paranormal Tours

Student tours.

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  • Most Popular History Tour
  • Users 5 and Under Not Permitted
  • Hour Glass 2 hours
  • Tags History

2-Hour History Tour

Step back in time and discover the intriguing history of the infamous Missouri State Penitentiary on this guided tour! Hear about escape attempts, riots, female inmates, and more.

  • Users 9 and Under Not Permitted
  • Hour Glass 3 hours

3-Hour In-Depth History Tour

Learn the fascinating history and tales of Missouri’s most notorious state penitentiary with this in-depth three-hour tour that covers more details than the two-hour tour.

3-Hour Former Inmate Tour

Learn about the Missouri State Penitentiary from a unique angle on this tour that includes a Q&A with a former inmate! Discover how the inmates spent their days within the walls.

  • Most Popular Ghost Tour
  • Users 13 and Under Not Permitted

2-Hour Ghost Tour

Tour the spooky halls of the Missouri State Penitentiary and experience a fascinating part of Jefferson City’s history as you walk through the dungeon cells and other areas of the prison.

3-Hour Ghost Hunt

Go ghost hunting through the eerie halls of the infamous Missouri State Penitentiary on this guided hunt! Get your EMF meters ready to see if you can find any paranormal activity.

  • Users 17 and Under Not Permitted
  • Hour Glass 5 hours

5-Hour Overnight Paranormal Investigation

Explore the strange and unbelievable occurrences at the Missouri State Penitentiary on this guided overnight ghost hunt. Face the ghosts of the most infamous prisoners in the dark!

  • Hour Glass 8 hours

8-Hour Overnight Paranormal Investigation

Join our staff for an overnight paranormal investigation of the Missouri State Penitentiary! Book a tour of the Missouri State Penitentiary and spend the night searching for paranormal activity.

  • 5/18/24 & 9/14/24
  • Hour Glass 6 hours (Including Meet & Greet)

These Walls Still Talk – Overnight Investigation with MSP Staff

Spend a night investing paranormal activity with the Missouri State Penitentiary staff. This special ghost-hunting event includes a meet-and-greet and after-investigation recap.

Private 2-Hour History Tour

Discover Jefferson City’s lawless past with a private tour of the Missouri State Penitentiary! Perfect for groups of 25 or more, this private tour includes everything you want to know.

Private 3-Hour In-Depth History Tour

Explore the Missouri State Penitentiary with a group of 25 or more on this private experience that goes more in-depth than the private two-hour tour of the facility.

Private 2-Hour Ghost Tour

Book a special private tour of the Missouri State Penitentiary and explore Jefferson City’s uncanny history with a personalized touch. Call us for more details!

  • Hour Glass 5 hours & 8 hours

Private Overnight Paranormal Investigation

Discover the Missouri State Penitentiary on an overnight ghost tour for a more personalized experience in this haunted prison! Call us for more details.

  • Users Ages 5 or 10 years old
  • Hour Glass 1 hour & 2 hours

Private Student History Tour

Bring your students to learn the fascinating history of Jefferson City’s most notorious penitentiary! This private tour is perfect for student groups and includes age-appropriate content.

  • Users Ages 12+
  • Hour Glass 1 hour

Private Student Ghost Tour

Give your students a lesson in fright with this ghost tour of the Missouri State Penitentiary! Content is age appropriate and includes state history and MSP facts and details.

  • Hour Glass 2 hours , 3, 5 or 8 hours
  • Tags Photography

Private Photography Tours

Grab your camera and photography equipment and snap great shots of the Missouri State Penitentiary on this private photography tour.

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Last updated: December 28, 2022

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Andersonville National Historic Site 496 Cemetery Road Andersonville, GA 31711

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West Virginia Penitentiary

West Virginia Penitentiary

Historical and paranormal tours in moundsville, wv, featured tours.

  • Hour Glass 90 mins
  • Users All Ages

Guided Day Tours

This guided 90-minute tour walks you through this gothic-style structure and focuses on the main level of our facility.

  • Roam at your own pace
  • Hour Glass 4 hours
  • Users 18+ y/o

Photography Tour

Introducing West Virginia Penitentiary’s Photography Tour! This is not a guided tour; you can roam at your own pace and leisure.

  • Hour Glass 1 hour
  • Users 12+ y/o

Escape the Pen

Escape games are a type of adventure game in which you are locked in a themed room with other participants trying to find your way out.

  • Most Popular Tour
  • Hour Glass 6 hours

Public Ghost Hunt

Want to see what it is really like to spend the night in prison — but with no living residents? Tour the facility with a guide for a 90-minute guided tour, and then roam the halls on your own.

Private Paranormal Investigations

If things aren’t spooky enough during the day, you can visit the prison overnight. If you are searching for paranormal activities or just want to experience the penitentiary at midnight, here is a great chance.

  • Hour Glass 3 hours
  • Users 13+ y/o

Twilight Tour

Enjoy an evening at the prison during the twilight hours on select Fridays and Saturdays!

  • Users 15+ y/o

Thriller Thursday

Why wait for the weekend to have fun? Get started early with Thriller Thursdays! Spend three thrilling hours with us that you won’t soon forget!

  • Users 12 and Under

Princess Tea

Join all of your favorite Princesses for a Magical afternoon of fun!

Hard Day's Night - Beatles Tribute Band

MEDC presents a Hard Day’s Night! Jump in your Yellow Submarine and join us in the Moundsville Center for a Beatles Tribute CONCERT!

We’re so excited to announce the West Virginia Penitentiary Paranormal Convention! We will have multiple paranormal speaking events, vendor booths, psychics, concessions and much more!

  • Hour Glass 45 mins

The Dungeon

Join us on a Nightmarish trip through our Dungeon of Horrors haunted house!

Guided Paranormal Walk through the some of the oldest and most active parts of our facility. This 45-minute tour is only offered during our haunted house season.

WHERE HISTORY MEETS MYSTERY!

Built in 1866 and decommissioned in 1995, this former state penitentiary now offers day tours, paranormal investigations, escape rooms, a haunted house in October, and large events in our event center!

ONE OF THE BEST EXPERIENCES IN WEST VIRGINIA

a close up of a logo

The location is amazing! Whether you are looking for a paranormal experience or just a historical one, this place never disappoints! Our tour guide, Chuck, was wonderful as well.

We had a great time. We took the history tour and were very pleased. Our tour guide Jason was excellent. The tour was very informative and we saw many different parts of the prison. Would definitely recommend.

Had a great time attending the overnight ghost hunt. Prison is beautiful and so creepy! You will not be disappointed we had a lot of activity.

This escape run was so much fun!! We enjoyed every part of it !! It was so exciting and we were happy to escape and save lefty!!

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History. Redemption. Legacy.

Experience the beauty, hope, and restoration of the Ohio State Reformatory.

Everyone Who Visits Comes Away With Their Own Reformatory Story. Start Yours Now…

Experience firsthand the history and legacy of the Ohio State Reformatory, a building with countless stories that range from terrifying and tragic to inspiring and hopeful. Come learn about our history while creating your own Reformatory Story.

can you tour prisons

Choose an Adventure

Decide what your visit will look like by choosing one or more of our customizable tours or experiences.

can you tour prisons

Select Your Date

Don’t miss out! Book your tour or experience to ensure your spot is reserved. We often fill up, so don’t wait.

can you tour prisons

Embrace the Past

As you enter the gates, the striking architecture marks the beginning of your memorable visit.

can you tour prisons

Tell Your Story

Whether it involves Shawshank, the paranormal, or a historical deep dive, share your unforgettable experience.

can you tour prisons

Offered Tours

Tour all 250,000 square feet of the prison and learn about its history, Hollywood connections, and paranormal activity.

shawshank

Follow in the footsteps of Andy and Red by exploring the filming site of The Shawshank Redemption — IMDb’s all-time highest-rated film.

can you tour prisons

Whether you want to hunt for ghosts or be haunted by them, you’re in the right place!

INKcarceration at the Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio

Keep an eye on our calendar so you never miss out on any harrowing happenings here.

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Partner with us in preserving this historic facility by purchasing a membership today.

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Find the perfect gift for the film buff, ghost hunter, and/or history lover in your life.

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Nevada State Prison Preservation Society

Nevada State Prison

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The Status of Tours at the Nevada State Prison

JANUARY 2024 The Board of Directors of the Nevada State Prison Preservation Society is pleased to announce the status of tours of the historic Nevada State Prison.

As some of you know, we received the long awaited Change of Use Permit in January 2021, which allows us to open and operate.

We have have completed three successful tour seasons–May through October of both 2021, 2022, and 2023 .  We have conducted hundreds of tours and delighted thousands of visitors with ninety minute tours of the site led by knowledgeable guides.  We opened our gift shop, offering T-shirts and other keepsakes.

Our seasons would not have been possible without our dedicated corps of volunteers.  Words can not express our gratitude for the time and talent that they freely gave us.  The hot and smoky summer days presented a challenge, but they all persevered , and gave our visitors their best.

The Board of Directors have set the following dates and times for the 2024 TOUR SEASON of the Historic Nevada State Prison. Each tour day will have tours at 9.00 AM, 10.00,AM 11.00AM, 12:00 PM.

TOUR DATES 2024:

MAY-11th, 25th, 26th, and 27th

JUNE-15th, 29th

JULY-5th, 6th, and 27th

AUGUST-3rd,17th, and 31st

SEPTEMBER-1st, 2nd,1 4th, and 28th

OCTOBER-5th, 19th, 25th, and 27th

T ICKETS GO ON SALE IN APRIL 2024

Each tour will last approximately ninety minutes, led by knowledgeable guides with a “sweep” to keep each group of about 15 visitors, together.

The current price of the tour is $20.00.  Until further notice, tickets will only be available through the on-line Box Office, and our system accepts a number of payment methods. NO REFUNDS are available at this time. The web address for our Box Office is: Nevada State Prison Preservation Society Tickets

If you need assistance, please contact the Box Office, via email:  [email protected]

Due to State of Nevada regulations, we must have a signed Assumption of Risk, Agreement, Release, and Waiver of Liability for each visitor, unless they are a current employee of the State of Nevada.  Parents or legal guardians must sign one for their minor children.  We have these forms available at check-in or for your convenience, you may download it and bring it with you. ARRW Form, here .

We look forward to having you join us on one of our tours next season.  This short video will whet your appetite to visit:

The Board of Directors Nevada State Prison Preservation Society

Things to do in Tennessee

Can you visit the Tennessee State Prison?

September 16, 2021

brandonscurrey

The Tennessee State Prison, known as a fortress-like facility, was home to some of the most violent criminals of the 19 th and 20 th centuries. James Earl Ray, admitted killer of Martin Luther King, Jr., and may other dangerous murderers, spent time behind bars here.

Upon closing in 1992, the prison soon became the focus of many history enthusiasts and ghost hunters. Unfortunately, crumbling walls and ceilings, corroded cell bars, peeling paint, and other structural problems have made it too dangerous to tour or explore.

Today, it is guarded by the Department of Corrections and trespassing onto the property is strictly prohibited. So, no matter how tempting it may be, you should not attempt to visit the Tennessee State Prison for any reason.

History of the old Tennessee State Prison

This maximum-security penitentiary opened its doors for the first time in 1831. Containing 200 cells, the prison was considered a humane and spacious facility in the early to mid-1800s.

During the Civil War, the Union Army seized the property and turned it into a military prison. As more and more prisoners were added, men and women were often forced to share the same cells.

A new, larger prison was built in 1898 after the original structure was demolished. Many outbuildings that still stand today were built with salvaged material from the original building.

The updated penitentiary contained 800 one-person cells, but, unfortunately, over 1,400 inmates were admitted on opening day. Overcrowding continued to be a problem.

During the 20 th century, prisoners were denied phone calls and letters to family unless it was considered a life and death situation. They could not communicate with each other inside prison walls unless it had to do with their work or was about another necessary topic.

The prison contained factories, offices, and even a farm where inmates were forced to work for up to 16 hours per day. Sleeping areas were reported to be unheated and provided no ventilation.

Riots within the prison began to break out in the 1970s and 1980s, likely due to the ill-treatment of inmates. The facility ended up closing its doors in 1992 due to overcrowding and maltreatment of convicts.

Many murderers and psychopaths lived in “The Castle,” as many called it. Over 100 were put to death within its walls, most by its infamous electric chair.

Many people claim to have heard footsteps and shrieks since its closure. Others say, upon visiting the facility, to have seen apparitions or felt cold chills.

While it is currently illegal to visit the TN State Prison, there are rumors of a historical society’s interest in restoring and opening the facility for guided tours. Maybe one day touring this penitentiary, full of history and wonder, will be an option for those with curious minds!

Movies filmed at the TN State Prison

There were quite a few movies filmed at this state prison. The 1975 movie Nashville, The Last Castle, and Ernest Goes to Jail all filmed portions of their films on site.

Walk the Line, a 2005 film about the life and career of Johnny Cash, was filmed here. Interestingly, Johnny Cash (along with Roy Clark and Linda Ronstadt) performed at the Tennessee State Prison for a 1977 TV special.

Additionally, The Green Mile was filmed at this penitentiary; along with a few other movies, music videos, and shows.

Can you tour active prisons in Tennessee?

Surprisingly, the Tennessee Department of Corrections website gives details and offers tours of state prisons to schools, churches, and other organizations.

Here are a few things you need to know before taking a tour of an active prison: You must be 16 years old, and students are required to be accompanied by a chaperone. You’ll need to bring a valid ID, and you will be processed through a metal detector checkpoint prior to touring.

Be prepared to be searched. For obvious reasons, you are not allowed to bring guns, knives, drugs, alcohol, or any other illegal substances into the facility. Only bring your car keys and your ID with you. Leave cell phones, money, and any tobacco products you may have in the car.

Dress appropriately. Clothing items such as crop tops, tank tops, and overalls shouldn’t be worn. Additionally, don’t wear any clothing with lewd or threatening logos.

More information on requirements and contact information for each prison can be found at https://www.tn.gov/correction/sp/prison-tours.html .

Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary

Brushy Mountain State Pen, located in Petros, TN, was known as “The Alcatraz of the South.” This prison housed thousands of dangerous criminals and, at one time, produced tons of coal each day for the state of Tennessee.

The penitentiary’s notoriety led to it being referenced in books such as Silence of the Lambs and The Firm. The inmates endured back-breaking labor and harsh mining conditions, which, unfortunately, led to many deaths.

Today, you can walk the cell blocks of Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary, but many say it is haunted by the thousands of people who died of mining accidents, sickness, unjust treatment, and riots. While you explore the facility, be prepared for paranormal activity- You never know what you might encounter!

History of Brushy Mountain

Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary was established in 1896 in the aftermath of the Coal Creek War, which was an armed labor revolt.

The original prison was built with wood using free labor. At this time, Brushy Mountain could accommodate about 120 inmates. Eventually, a new stone building was erected and opened its doors in 1935. While this prison was built to sleep 600 men, it unfortunately housed nearly 1,200 prisoners at times.

Rugged mountain terrain encompassed three sides of this cold, castle-like facility. The prison included its own railroad spur and inmates worked in the coal mines for many hours a day. They also operated farms and coke ovens on site.

After two men were killed in a rockslide in 1967, the penitentiary’s coal mines shut down. Still, as the years went on, there were reports of inadequate facilities and inhuman conditions. Inmates were reportedly denied heat, hot water, and medical care while incarcerated at Brushy Mountain.

The facility closed for four years in 1972 due to unsafe conditions. After 113 years of operation, Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary permanently closed its doors in 2009.

Interesting Events at Brushy Mountain

Not only did James Earl Ray spend time at the TN State Prison, but he was also incarcerated at Brushy Mountain. In fact, he successfully escaped from this prison on June 10, 1977.

But he didn’t make it very far. He was recaptured 54 hours later. He was found lying under a pile of leaves about four miles away from the prison.

A prisoner named James Slagle, who was serving a 318 year sentence for murder and kidnapping, shipped himself out of the prison in a box labeled “153 pounds of roast beef.”

Over the course of a few years prior to the escape, he learned yoga so he could contort his body into unnatural positions. It is estimated that the shipping box was only about 18 inches deep by 14 inches wide! Not long after being loaded on a flatbed truck, he broke out of the box and jumped off the back of the truck.

An off-duty prison guard spotted Slagle in the woods shortly after his escape, and he was apprehended almost immediately. As punishment for escaping, he was sent to “The Hole” for solitary confinement around Christmas 1970.

In the 1970s, Bushy Mountain was also home to a deer named Geronimo. An officer brought him to the prison when he was just a young deer. He became a pet to the entire inmate population and could sometimes been seen sleeping on a bunk in a vacant cell.

Legend has it he liked to chew on unlit cigarettes and drink from the water fountain. Geronimo provided hope and comfort to many prisoners during his time at Brushy Mountain.

Touring Brushy Mountain

These days, you can take a self-guided tour of “The Alcatraz of the South.” Former inmates and guards will be on hand to answer any questions you may have. You’ll get a glimpse of what it was like for the violent criminals that served time here. The property now also has a restaurant, gift shop, distillery, and an event venue on site.

Paranormal tours are also available. Be prepared to hear footsteps or see apparitions of those who died while incarcerated at Brushy Mountain. Reportedly, visitors have even been shoved and scratched while visiting the prison, so this tour is not for the faint of heart!

While you can’t currently visit the Tennessee State Penitentiary, you can visit active state prisons and tour Brushy Mountain State Pen. Whether you tour an active prison or a penitentiary of the past, you can be sure you will learn a lot and gain new insight on what “life in prison” is all about.

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Visiting an Inmate: Answers to common Questions & Things you should know

For many people, the fist time you plan on visiting an inmate can be a frustrating, confusing and a nerve-wracking experience.  First time visitors are never sure what the process will be like and many questions will enter your mind like, what can I wear? What Can I bring? Can my kids come? What Identification do I need to present to the guards?  This is a quick reference guide for the important things you will need to know when going to visit your inmate, and answers to many of the frequently asked questions you may have.

Types of Visitation

Their a several different types of visitation for inmates.  Video visitation is becoming more common and in some instances can be done from the comfort of your own home.  Video visitation works similar to the way you would use Skype.  Non-contact or telephone visitation is when you are behind a glass partition, the inmate and you have a phone which you can talk to one another on, but the glass separates you.  Contact visitation is the most common and generally the most desired form of visiting an inmate.  You are able to sit, usually at a small table and be with the inmate for a short period of time.  Although contact can occur between you and the inmate, you are limited in how much touching can take place.  Usually a brief hug hello and goodbye are all that are allowed, holding hands is usually restricted, the guards will yell at you if you cross the line.

Before Your Visit

Prior to your visit at the institution you will need to be in contact with your inmate.  Almost all inmates have something called a visitors list.  At some facilities the inmate will fill out a list of 10 or so visitors that can visit.  The inmate needs to know the visitors full name, address, phone number and sometimes more information.  If you think your inmate may not know all this information, you should mail them a letter, or be sure to tell them the next time they call.  Some facilities will require all prospective visitors to fill out a visiting application, and certain correctional institutions only make the form available if the inmate requests it.

The Visiting Application

Not all institutions will require you fill out a visitors application, but most do.  This is just a questionnaire you must fill out that has your name, address, and asks questions such as are you a convicted felon, have you been incarcerated or worked in the department of corrections.  Answer all of these questions truthfully, as they will be using the information to do a background check on you, and then make a decision if you will be approved or denied visitation.

We have compiled all of the visitor applications that are available for jails and prisons in the United States.  If you need to fill out a visiting application, or you are just curious as to what the form looks like you can view the inmate visiting application on our site here .  Please note, that some of these applications may not be used at select institutions, and the inmate must send a signed application for you to fill out.

Some reasons why your visiting application may be denied are as follows:

  • You provided false information on your application
  • You are a convicted felon
  • You have served time in a correctional institution, or have worked in the department of corrections
  • You have outstanding warrants
  • You have a protective order out against you or the inmate
  • You are deemed a security risk by the facility
  • You are on PTI, probation, or parole (some exceptions can be made to this)
  • You are on another inmate's visitation list at the same institution already

Most facilities will not inform you of your applications status, usually they leave it entirely up to the inmate to let you know if you were approved or denied so you must be in constant contact with them.  If you are denied visitation most states have a process of appealing the decision, however the appeal must be filed within a certain time frame.

Preparing For Your Visit

After your approval you will want to check a schedule of the visitation hours.  We provide the visiting hours for many of the institutions on our site, just search for the facilities name, or select the state the inmate is located in from our homepage.  You may still want to call and double check the hours, and make sure visitation has not been canceled for any reason, as visiting hours can change or be canceled at anytime and without notice.  A correctional facility may cancel visiting if the facility goes on lockdown, if an inmate has escaped, or for any other reason the facility deems necessary.  Also if an inmate is in solitary, or 'the hole', their visiting privilege becomes suspended.  

Once you know the visiting hours, and have planned which day you will be going on you will need to make sure you have the proper identification with you.  All department of corrections vary slightly in what kinds of identification they will accept, but in general a valid state issued photo ID or photo drivers license will suffice (for the exact requirements navigate to the specific facilities page on our site).

Visiting with Minors

When visiting with minors or children you may have to fill out a special visiting with minors authorization form.  Usually if they are over a certain age (around 14) they need to have a school issued photo ID or birth certificate to accompany you to visitation.  Minors are never allowed to go alone to visitation, and must always be accompanied by a parent or guardian.  Also, some inmates cannot have any minors visit if they are incarcerated for a crime against a child.  Small children or babies may still need to have their birth certificate to gain entry but usually they are more relaxed in the requirements, they are NOT however, lax about the behavior of children, and if you fail to control your child or keep their behavior in line you can be removed from the visiting area altogether.

If you are visiting an institution you should be aware that all facilities have a dress code.  Staff will reject you from visiting if you violate the dress code, here are the general rules:

  • Do not wear any clothing that resembles the inmates clothes, or staffs clothes.  This means if the inmates where denim you cannot, if they wear white, you cannot, if they where khaki, well...you guessed it you cannot.
  • Do not wear medical scrubs or any sort of uniform, as this presents a security risk
  • Shirts and shoes are mandatory
  • Any clothing that exposes chest, back, thighs, midsection or any other large amount of flesh is prohibited
  • See through fabric is restricted from being worn
  • Sleeveless shirts are prohibited
  • No shorts or skirts that are above the knee should be worn (no slits above the knee either)
  • Offensive pictures or language on clothing is prohibited
  • Tight clothing, including spandex, tak tops, leggings, tights etc are prohibited
  • Jewelry is restricted so it is a good idea to not wear any

Some of these rules are obviously up to the interpretation of the guard on duty, and they make the final decision on what is allowed to be worn.  We recommend you always bring a change of clothing and leave it in your car, this way in the event something you are wearing is deemed in violation of the dress code you can just change.

Arrival at the Facility and Search

You should arrive to visitation a few minutes early, sometimes as early as 15-20 minutes so that you can fill out more paperwork.  Do not arrive any earlier as you will get into trouble.  Upon your arrival to the facility parking lot, you can expect to be searched.  This means your car and everything in it can be searched by staff, and sometimes even canine units (dogs).  Most facilities are now tobacco free, meaning you cannot even bring cigarettes with you to visitation (you can however leave them in your car).  Once you enter the facility expect you and your belongings to be searched again, usually by pat down, metal detector and also possibly by dogs.  If you refuse to be searched you will be banned from visiting.  Please note that in some instances people must consent to a strip search as a condition of visiting, a person can refuse but they will not be refused visitation.  Strip searches are rarely required though, so do not let this deter you from visiting.  Some institutions have used ion scanners, which actually pick up on small particles of drugs being present.  The scanners often gave false positives and people had to be strip searched because of it which is why they are not used so much anymore, dogs are much more reliable at finding contraband.

What Items Can You Bring to Visitation?

This really differs from one facility to another, as some facilities will have lockers you can rent for about a quarter that you can store your belongings in, others do not.  In general, you can only bring your ID, single car key, eyeglasses (for medical), small bills or change for the vending machines that are in the visitation room (highly recommend this because you can buy your inmate some snacks for while you visit).  If you have a small child or baby you may be allowed to bring a single bottle and diaper to visiting.  You should never bring medications, cigarettes, or any illegal substances to visitation as this can be cause for immediate revocation of visiting privilege and possible criminal charges. 

Have a visiting question not answered here?

If you have other questions about visiting an inmate be sure you check the specific facilities page on our site, as it may already be answered there. You can post a question about a that particular prison there or if you have a general inmate visitation question feel free to post it below and we will do our best to answer it for you.

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Can You Tour a Prison? Exploring the Legality, Safety and Experience of Visiting Prisons

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By Happy Sharer

can you tour prisons

Introduction

Visiting a prison can be an intimidating prospect, but it is something that many people are interested in doing. Whether it’s out of curiosity, to learn more about the criminal justice system, or just to get a better understanding of what life is like behind bars, there are plenty of reasons why someone would want to tour a prison. But can you actually do it? This article will explore the legality, safety and experience of touring a prison.

Interview with a Former Prisoner

Interview with a Former Prisoner

To get a better understanding of what it’s like to tour a prison, we spoke to John, a former prisoner who was incarcerated for five years. He told us that his first experience touring a prison was a strange one. “I was definitely nervous and apprehensive when I first arrived,” he said. “But once I got inside, I realized that the staff were friendly and helpful and they made me feel welcome.”

John said that visiting the prison gave him a better understanding of the criminal justice system. “It really opened my eyes to some of the things that go on inside a prison,” he said. “It made me realize just how much work the guards and other staff put into making sure everything runs smoothly.” He also said that seeing the different areas of the prison, such as the cells and the recreational areas, gave him a better appreciation of the conditions that prisoners have to live in.

Personal Story of Visiting a Prison as a Tourist

Personal Story of Visiting a Prison as a Tourist

My friend and I recently decided to take a prison tour. We had heard that it was possible to do so, so we decided to give it a try. When we arrived at the prison, we were met by a guard who explained the rules and regulations that applied while we were there. He also gave us a brief overview of the prison’s history and showed us around the different areas of the facility.

The experience was both fascinating and eye-opening. We were able to get a better understanding of the day-to-day life of inmates and the security measures in place to ensure their safety. We also learned about the different types of inmates and the rehabilitation programs available to them. It was an interesting and informative experience, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of the criminal justice system.

Overview of the Legalities and Procedures for Touring a Prison

Before taking a prison tour, it’s important to understand the legalities and procedures involved. Depending on the country and state, there may be different requirements for entering a prison. In general, visitors must be 18 years old or older and must provide valid photo identification. They may also be subject to a background check and other security procedures.

The prisons themselves have their own set of rules and regulations that must be followed. Visitors are generally not allowed to bring any objects into the prison, including phones, cameras, recording devices or weapons. They are also not allowed to touch any of the inmates or take photographs without permission. Lastly, visitors should be aware that the prison staff may search them before and after the tour.

Comparison of Different Prisons Open to Tourists

There are a variety of different prisons open to tourists. Some of the most popular destinations include Alcatraz in San Francisco, which was formerly a federal prison; Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia, which has been abandoned since 1971; and The Rock in New South Wales, Australia, which is still an active prison.

Each prison offers its own unique experience. Alcatraz is known for its history and its infamous inmates, such as Al Capone. Eastern State Penitentiary offers a glimpse into the past, with its crumbling buildings and eerie atmosphere. And The Rock provides a look into a modern-day prison, with its high-security cells and strict regulations.

Tips for Navigating the Prison Tour Process

Tips for Navigating the Prison Tour Process

When planning a prison tour, it’s important to follow a few tips to make sure the experience goes smoothly. First, make sure to research the prison beforehand and familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations. Second, wear appropriate attire and leave any unnecessary items at home. Third, be respectful of the staff and inmates and follow all instructions. Fourth, ask questions if you don’t understand something. And finally, remember that safety is a priority and take all necessary precautions.

Touring a prison can be a unique and educational experience, but it’s important to understand the legalities, safety measures and procedures involved. By doing research, following the rules and taking necessary precautions, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether it’s to gain a better understanding of the criminal justice system or to get a peek inside a prison, touring a prison can be a rewarding and eye-opening experience.

(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)

Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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Kardashian sisters tour two California prisons

A group of CDCR staff pose for a photo with Kim Kardashian as she tours a prison.

Kim and Khloé Kardashian toured two California prisons in Chowchilla: Valley State Prison and Central California Women’s Facility. On Feb. 9, they recorded footage for their upcoming show, set to stream on Hulu in six months.

Watch the video and continue reading the story below:

During their visit to Valley, they met with participants of the Youth Offender Program, including Travon Willis who found it to be a great opportunity to have visiting celebrities.

Two Kardashian sisters with others in a CDCR prison.

“Today we are here to give people an opportunity to see what it’s like for us,” Willis said. “(They can) see we are able to change (and make) different choices.”

The Kardashian sisters also met with trainers from the Veterans Service Dogs program. After meeting with trainers, staff, and the four-legged participants, they departed Valley and went to a women’s prison for the first time.

At the women’s facility they met with a group of Anti-Recidivism Coalition participants at the chapel. The group is led by Lynn Acosta and Norma Cumpian.

“Coming to a women’s prison, I feel like it has really changed my perspective on why I work in prison reform,” said Kim Kardashian.

During their tour of the facilities, they interacted with staff, volunteers, and the population.

Story by Pedro Calderón Michel, Deputy Press Secretary Office of Public and Employee Communications

See the Kardashian visit in photos:

The Kardashian sisters visit Valley State Prison with their film crew.

Read more rehabilitation stories.

Follow CDCR on  YouTube ,  Facebook ,  X (formerly Twitter) . Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast .

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Yuma Territorial Prison night tours are back

can you tour prisons

A true crime experience, where everyone is guilty

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Night Prison Tours of the Yuma Territorial Prison are back with March dates and you don't want to miss it.

Tours will be happening on March 15 and 28 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park located at 220 Prison Hill Road..

The park is inviting the community to join the tour of the prison.

Tickets are $30 and advance purchase is requires since there is a limited amount of tickets available.

Space is limited and comfortable shoes are recommended for the tours.

To buy tickets for March 15, go to https://app.aplos.com/aws/events/night_prison_tours .

To buy tickets for March 28, go to https://app.aplos.com/aws/events/night_prison_tours_328 .

See you in prison!

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Faith Rodriquez

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Pentagon leak defendant Jack Teixeira pleads guilty, faces years in prison

Undated picture shows Jack Douglas Teixeira who was arrested by the FBI, over the leaks online of classified documents

Reporting by Nate Raymond in Boston; Additional reporting by Phillip Stewart; Editing by Will Dunham, Alexia Garamfalvi and Jonathan Oatis

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can you tour prisons

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Nate Raymond reports on the federal judiciary and litigation. He can be reached at [email protected].

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What to know about viewing and recording the solar eclipse with your cellphone camera

Here is what to know about recording the total solar eclipse in the u.s. safely with your cellphone and capturing the best photos. hint: eclipse glasses aren't solar camera lenses..

can you tour prisons

You won't want to miss next month's solar eclipse because there won't be one like it for another two decades.

The stunning phenomenon marks the first full eclipse in the U.S. since 2017. The total solar eclipse on April 8 will have a larger diameter than the last as the moon will be a couple thousand miles closer to Earth, according to NASA .

The astronomical event will be partially visible in all 48 contiguous states and will be the last total solar eclipse to occur until Aug. 23, 2044 , according to NASA. Some parts of the country will even be able to experience full totality as the eclipse enters through Texas and eventually exits in Maine .

Whether you're observing the event partially or totally, you'll definitely want something to remember it by. Here is what to know about recording the eclipse safely with your cellphone and capturing the best photos.

How to get them: Warby Parker offering free solar eclipse glasses ahead of 'celestial spectacle'

How to photograph a solar eclipse with a phone

You'll need to have the right solar filter in front of your cellphone camera to protect both your device and eyesight, according to Carly Stocks, a Utah-based astronomical photographer who talked to USA TODAY on Friday.

The filter must be made specifically for solar viewing, Stocks said. She also emphasizes the need to place a filter that is larger than the lens itself and to keep it on at all times if you're in a location where the eclipse is only partially visible. She recommends purchasing a small 4'' x 4'' sheet of the Thousand Oaks solar filter.

Do I need solar eclipse lens during totality?

If you're observing the sky in a location where the total eclipse is visible, you'll have a moment when you can take off the solar lens entirely and capture unfiltered images.

"During totality, you can remove all filters," Stocks told USA TODAY. "If you're looking with the solar glasses and you don't see anything, then it's safe to look at it during that time."

Stocks warned that totality only takes place for two to four minutes.

Can I watch the solar eclipse in selfie mode?

With a proper solar filter you can capture the sun with the front camera lens during the solar eclipse but it won't make the best selfie.

Stocks said the camera will have trouble focusing on both you and the sun but recommends taking a photo focusing on each and blending the two together with editing software.

Can I use eclipse glasses as a solar lens?

NASA advises against using eclipse glasses or handheld viewers with cameras. Instead they recommend using a special solar protector and to seek service from an astronomy or other expert before doing so.

Where can you view the solar eclipse?

The total solar eclipse will cross North America, including Mexico and Canada. It will debut in the U.S. when passing through Texas around 1:27 p.m. CDT and eventually end in Maine at about 3:35 p.m. EDT.

Totality is expected to last around four minutes and 28 seconds , a record, along the eclipse path. Several major cities, including Dallas and Cleveland, will be in the direct line of darkness.

Here are the states where totality is expected to occur on April 8:

  • Pennsylvania
  • New Hampshire
  • Small parts of Michigan and Tennessee

How to take a great solar eclipse photo?

For those trying to capture the best eclipse content, Stocks has some tips. She recommends visiting a flat area where a 360-degree sunset is visible and taking a panoramic picture or video of the horizon.

She also recommends taking pictures of solar eclipse projections, such as a tree leaf, the ground or the people around you. However she recommends you're prepared for when the time comes because it'll be over fast. Using a tripod can also prevent the inevitable shakiness when the time comes.

"You think, 'Oh, I'm gonna be like, super prepared, but it is a big rush," she said. "So you want to have a plan and practice."

How to make a do-it-yourself eclipse viewing projector

Here's how to safely make an eclipse viewer and the best way to use it:

  • Get a cardboard box, a white sheet of paper, tape, scissors and piece of aluminum foil.
  • Punch a pinhole into the aluminium foil.
  • Tape it over one side of the box.
  • Tape the white sheet of paper to the inside of the other side of the box.
  • Stand with the sun behind you.
  • Light will stream through the pinhole and project a crescent sun onto the white sheet of paper in the box.
  • Look into the box through another hole you cut into the box to see the projected image.
  • Do not look at the sun through the pinhole.

Contributing: Janet Loehrke and Ramon Padilla

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COMMENTS

  1. Prison Museums You Can Visit Across The US

    Prison Museums You Can Visit Across The US. With over 100,000 prisons and jails around the globe, historic jail cells and prison museums have become a huge draw for tourists, and the US is no different - the states has over a dozen historic prisons to discover. From Alcatraz Island's remote location off the shores of San Francisco to ...

  2. 10 prisons now open to travelers

    10 famous prisons: 1. Alcatraz, United States —. The Isla de los Alcatraces (Isle of the Pelicans), as Juan Manuel de Ayala, the Spanish explorer, named it in 1775, or Alcatraz Island as we know ...

  3. Five of the Most Fascinating Prison Museums in America

    Today's tours include the prison itself, a museum about peace officers, a gift shop and the old prison cemetery. Cell Block 7; Jackson, Michigan The entrance to the prison holding Cell Block 7.

  4. Prison Tours: Are They Allowed for Operational Prisons?

    In most cases, no, you cannot tour a prison that's currently being operated (in other words, inmates are there and it functions as usual). Imagine someone asking if they can tour your home while you live there. It's a similar situation. When inmates are in jail, that's their home. They live there, eat there, sleep there, bathe there, etc.

  5. 7 Old Prisons That Are Open to Visitors

    How to visit: Old Melbourne Gaol is open daily from 9:30 a.m. until 5 p.m., except on Christmas Day and Good Friday, and can be easily reached via public transit. Adult admission is $19, and for ...

  6. Can You Tour A Prison?

    Let's address some frequently asked questions about prison tours: Can you tour a maximum-security prison? Touring a maximum-security prison is highly unlikely due to the heightened security measures in place. Are all prisons open to tours? No, not all prisons are open to tours. Some may have restrictions on who is allowed to visit, or may not ...

  7. Daytime Prison Tours

    Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is currently open Wednesday through Monday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The penitentiary is closed on Tuesdays and on the following holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Tickets are available online or at the door, subject to availability.

  8. BOP: How to visit a federal inmate

    General Visiting Information. Make sure your visit will be a success by carefully following these four steps. Locate the inmate. Discover or confirm the whereabouts of the inmate you would like to visit. Be Approved. Before you can visit you must be placed on the inmate's approved visiting list. Be Prepared.

  9. How to Prepare for a Prison Visit

    Give yourself an extra 15-20 minutes to fill out paperwork. Be prepared to be searched before being admitted into the visiting room. Searches may include a pat down by an officer of the same gender and a pass through a metal detector. All visitors must be searched, including children. Before bringing children, consider visiting alone first so ...

  10. Six Western Prison Tours for Groups

    Arizona's territory's first prison, Yuma Territorial Prison is a living museum of the Old West. Constructed in 1876 by its first inmates, it operated for 33 years until it shut down in 1909. It was a criminal's paradise— prisoners crafted, learned to read and write and were given good medical support. This historic site is in operation ...

  11. USP Florence ADMAX

    Additionally, any questions or comments regarding the discrepancies or inaccuracies found within this report should be directed to PAOA at (713) 818-9098, or to the subcontracted independent auditor (name and email address can be found on page one of the report), for explanation and resolution. USP Florence - ADMAX PREA Report

  12. Tours

    — The Experience — Step into the storied world of the reformatory and experience its history both as a prison and the shooting location for 1994's acclaimed film, The Shawshank Redemption.Serving as our most comprehensive tour, you'll learn about the Reformatory's architecture, the warden's living quarters, and discover what films and music videos have been shot onsite.

  13. Tours

    A short guided tour of the prison starts at 9 PM to help familiarize you with the site. After the tour, you are free to investigate on your own or with the guide until 4 AM. Overnight Investigations are available seven days a week. Please allow a minimum of 24 hours to schedule an investigation. Please note there is a minimum of 8 people ...

  14. Prison Tours

    Tour the spooky halls of the Missouri State Penitentiary and experience a fascinating part of Jefferson City's history as you walk through the dungeon cells and other areas of the prison. Book Now. Learn More. $45. 13 and Under Not Permitted. 3 hours. Ghost.

  15. Touring the Historic Prison Site

    A one hour audio driving tour of both the prison site and the National Cemetery is available as a free service to visitors. The tour is available as a CD or USB drive, and may be checked out at the museum information desk from 9:30 a.m - 3:15 p.m. daily. The driving tour can also be accessed online.

  16. West Virginia Penitentiary

    This guided 90-minute tour walks you through this gothic-style structure and focuses on the main level of our facility. Learn More Roam at your own pace From $ 100.00. 4 hours 18+ y/o ... you can visit the prison overnight. If you are searching for paranormal activities or just want to experience the penitentiary at midnight, here is a great ...

  17. Home

    The Ohio State Reformatory As Seen On. Feel the past come alive when you visit the Ohio State Reformatory. Through one of our customizable tours, you can learn about its history, Hollywood connections, and paranormal activity. Become part of this iconic structure's future by purchasing a membership to partner with us in preserving this ...

  18. Tours

    The Board of Directors have set the following dates and times for the 2024 TOUR SEASON of the Historic Nevada State Prison. Each tour day will have tours at 9.00 AM, 10.00,AM 11.00AM, 12:00 PM. TOUR DATES 2024: MAY-11th, 25th, 26th, and 27th. JUNE-15th, 29th. JULY-5th, 6th, and 27th. AUGUST-3rd,17th, and 31st. SEPTEMBER-1st, 2nd,1 4th, and 28th.

  19. Can You Tour a Prison

    Famous Prisons You Can Tour. Historical prison tours offer a trip back in time. Ever heard of Alcatraz or Eastern State Penitentiary? These are some famous prisons that are open for tours. A visit to these places can be an enlightening experience, casting light on historical events and the evolution of penal systems.

  20. Can you visit the Tennessee State Prison?

    Can you tour active prisons in Tennessee? Surprisingly, the Tennessee Department of Corrections website gives details and offers tours of state prisons to schools, churches, and other organizations. Here are a few things you need to know before taking a tour of an active prison: You must be 16 years old, and students are required to be ...

  21. Visiting an Inmate: Answers to common Questions & Things you should

    Contact visitation is the most common and generally the most desired form of visiting an inmate. You are able to sit, usually at a small table and be with the inmate for a short period of time. Although contact can occur between you and the inmate, you are limited in how much touching can take place. Usually a brief hug hello and goodbye are ...

  22. Can You Tour a Prison? Exploring the Legality, Safety and ...

    Introduction. Visiting a prison can be an intimidating prospect, but it is something that many people are interested in doing. Whether it's out of curiosity, to learn more about the criminal justice system, or just to get a better understanding of what life is like behind bars, there are plenty of reasons why someone would want to tour a prison.

  23. Kardashian sisters tour two California prisons

    During their tour of the facilities, they interacted with staff, volunteers, and the population. Story by Pedro Calderón Michel, Deputy Press Secretary Office of Public and Employee Communications. See the Kardashian visit in photos: Visiting Valley State Prison. Dog training program at Central California Women's Facility.

  24. Yuma Territorial Prison night tours are back

    Tours will be happening on March 15 and 28 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park located at 220 Prison Hill Road..

  25. Can You Tour a Prison?

    Can you tour a prison in operation? No, you can't. Prison rules are clear on this. More hilariously, one may say, prisons are not zoos. Every inmate held in either federal or state stays under strict custody of the correction officers and the prison facilities. Have you seen how many guards they deploy to man the premise?

  26. New York man sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for fatally

    Kevin Monahan was sentenced Friday to 25 years to life in prison for shooting and killing a woman who was a passenger in a car that mistakenly drove up his driveway in rural New York last year.

  27. Colorado judge sentences paramedic to five years in prison for McClain

    A Colorado court sentenced paramedic to five years in prison on Friday after he was convicted in the 2019 death of Elijah McClain, a young Black man who died after police put him in a chokehold ...

  28. Pentagon leak defendant Jack Teixeira pleads guilty, faces years in prison

    Information you can trust. Reuters, the news and media division of Thomson Reuters, is the world's largest multimedia news provider, reaching billions of people worldwide every day.

  29. How to safely record the total solar eclipse with your cellphone

    You won't want to miss next month's solar eclipse because there won't be one like it for another two decades. The stunning phenomenon marks the first full eclipse in the U.S. since 2017. The total ...