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Yuma Territorial Prison night tours are back

yuma territorial prison tour

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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yuma territorial prison tour

Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

One of Arizona’s earliest prisons tells a colorful story of Westward expansion and life in the Wild West.

As the gold rush attracted prospectors to California, Yuma was often chosen as the easiest route to cross the Colorado River. Gold was also discovered along the river, and as the area’s population surged, so did the need to keep the peace. Built in 1876, Yuma Territorial Prison held just over 3,000 inmates during its 33 years in operation, but the stories during that short time live on today. Nicknamed the “Hellhole of the West,” the prison closed in 1909 when the overcrowded facility moved inmates to Florence.

Tour the Prison

From the prison grounds, visitors can see the original Ocean to Ocean highway bridge, a final link in the U.S. roadway system that connected the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The grounds also overlook the site of the first railroad bridge to span the Colorado River at Yuma Crossing. Climb up the reconstructed guard tower to take in 360-degree views of Yuma and the surrounding landscapes before touring the museum. The original cellblocks built of granite quarried on-site are open for visitors to view, as well as the spooky Dark Cell, plus artifacts that tell the stories of notorious inmates and brutal living conditions in the prison.

Visit Historic Sites

Riverfront parks and walking trails connect the former prison grounds to Yuma’s historic downtown district, where visitors can see what life was like outside of the prison walls during the city’s early years. The Sanguinetti House Museum & Gardens preserves the 19th-century adobe home of one of Yuma’s early business leaders. Yuma’s historic district is also anchored by The Lee Hotel, which dates to 1917, and the Spanish Colonial Revival post office that dates to 1933. Other aging beauties such as the Yuma Theatre and the Kress Building operated during the prison’s heyday, and now house restaurants, bars and shops today.

Learn River History

Discover how important Yuma and the Colorado River were to the development of the Southwest at Colorado River State Historic Park . Located on the grounds of the 1864 U.S. Army Quartermaster Depot, the post supplied all military forts in the Southwest and was integral in Yuma’s origin story. Five original buildings remain on the depot grounds, and exhibits chronicle Arizona’s military history and the construction of major irrigation systems in the early 1900s. Visitors step back to a time when steamboats used the river to deliver supplies to the Arizona Territory.

For More Information

For the most current information on operating days, hours and pricing, please visit the destination website .

Visit Destination Website

More to Discover Near Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

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Sanguinetti House Museum & Gardens

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Sanguinetti House Museum & Gardens

The charming 19th-century adobe E. F. Sanguinetti (1867-1945) home, in the heart of historic Yuma, stands as a testament to the "Merchant Prince...

Colorado River State Historic Park

Colorado River State Historic Park

Take a trip back in time at Colorado River State Historic Park, which the U.S. army once used to unload, store, and distribute supplies.

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Yuma Territorial Prison

State historic park yuma, az.

yuma territorial prison tour

Main Gate: This entrance (also called the sallyport) is the only original adobe structure remaining at the prison.

Yuma Territorial Prison is a living museum of the Old West. More than 3,000 desperadoes, convicted of crimes ranging from polygamy to murder, were imprisoned in rock and adobe cells here during the prison's 33-year existence between 1876 and 1909. The cells, main gate and guard tower are still standing, providing visitors with a glimpse of convict life in the Southwest a century ago.

Description

The Territorial Prison at Yuma, Arizona, is a fascinating side trip to take when in the Yuma area. The entrance of this famous prison was shown in many western movies you might remember, where the bad guys ended up going in or coming out the main gate.The prison has been closed since 1909 and is now run as a state historical park.

yuma territorial prison tour

Model of the orginal prison

During a recent June visit the temperature was over 95 degrees, and it was easy to imagine what it must have been like to be imprisoned here during the summer a century ago. As one wanders through the old prison peering into the cells, you quickly notice the lack of plumbing and air conditioning. With only a bucket and an occassional breeze, it must have been a real challange for prisoners to survive in theTerritorial Prison at Yuma.

On July 1, 1876, the first 7 inmates entered the Territorial Prison at Yuma and were locked into the new cells they had built themselves. A total of 3,069 prisoners, including 29 women, lived within these walls during the prison's 33 years of operation. Their crimes ranged from murder to polygamy, with grand larceny being the most common. A majority served only portions of their sentences due to the ease with which paroles and pardons were obtained. One hundred eleven persons died while serving their sentences, most from tuberculosis, which was common throughout the territory. Of the many prisoners who attempted escape, 26 were successful and 8 died from gunshot wounds. No executions took place at the prison because capital punishment was administered by the county governments.

yuma territorial prison tour

Despite an infamous reputation, the historical written record indicates that the prison was humanely administered and was a model institution for its time. The only punishments were the "dark cell" for inmates who broke prison regulations, and the "ball and chain" for those who tried to escape. Prisoners had free time during which they hand-crafted many items to be sold at public bazaars held at the prison on Sundays after church services. Prisoners also had regular medical attention and access to a good hospital.

Schooling was available for convicts, and many learned to read and write in here in prison. The prison housed one of the first "public" libraries in the territory, and the fee charged to visitors for a tour of the institution was used to purchase books. One of the early electrical generating plants in the West was utilized here to furnish power for lights and run a ventilation system in the cell blocks.

By 1907, the prison was severely overcrowded, and there was no room on Prison Hill for expansion. Convicts constructed a new facility in Florence, Arizona, and the last prisoner left Yuma on September 15, 1909.

The Yuma Union High School occupied these buildings from 1910 to 1914. Empty cells provided free lodging for hobos riding the freights in the 1920s and sheltered many homeless families during the Great Depression.

Townspeople have always considered the abandoned complex a source for free building materials. This, together with fires, weathering and railroad construction, destroyed the prison walls and most of the buildings. What remains -- the cells, the main gate and the guard tower -- still provide a glimpse of convict life a century ago in the Arizona Territory.

General Information

Rates & fees, seasons / hours.

The park is open year round, but closed Christmas Day. Visitor Center is open 8 am to 5 pm MST daily.

Visitor Center

Geography & climate, location & setting.

Yuma Prison State Historic Park is situated on 7 acres on a bluff above the Colorado River in Yuma, Arizona. It is located at the Fourth Avenue exit south from Interstate 8. After crossing the Colorado River, the entrance to the park is on the east side of Fourth Avenue.

Climate & Weather

The park is located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert at an elevation of 140 feet. Yuma is one of the warmest and the sunniest cities in the US. It has a classic low desert climate with extremely low relative humidity and very high summer temperatures. Average summer highs exceed 100 degrees F for 4 months; winter average maximum temperatures are in the 60s and 70s. Yuma receives less than 4 inches of precipitation annually.

Things To Do

Tour the prison and the fascinating museum, which details the prison's development and tells stories of the desperados, including 29 women. Picnic tables and a ramada are provided.

Hotels/Motels

There are hotels and motels in Yuma, with something for every taste and price range.

Camping & RV Parks

There are numerous camping and RV accommodations in and around Yuma. For more information, contact

Yuma Convention and Visitors Bureau 377 S. Main Street, Yuma, Arizona 85364 928-782-0071 - email: [email protected] Arizona State Parks 602-542-4174 Arizona National Forests 800-280-CAMP

Resources & Nearby Attractions

Cities & towns, parks & monuments, recreation & wilderness areas, historic & points of interest.

1 Prison Hill Road Yuma, Arizona 85364 (928) 783-4771 e-mail – [email protected]

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YUMA TERRITORIAL PRISON STATE HISTORIC PARK

YUMA TERRITORIAL PRISON STATE HISTORIC PARK

Unveiling the Historical Significance of Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

Step into the past and immerse yourself in the remarkably preserved echoes of an era long gone at the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park. Nestled on the sun-kissed shores of the Colorado River in the southwestern state of Arizona, this unique attraction stands as a testament to the vibrant history of Arizona’s penal system and pioneers of the frontier. As a historian, museum buff, and anthropologist, I was captivated by the rich tapestry of stories this site offered – tales of struggle, resilience, and reform.

Historical Significance:

Beyond the daunting granite walls and iron bars, Yuma Territorial Prison served as a correctional facility from its establishment in 1876 until its closure in 1909. Today, it proudly stands as one of Arizona’s exceptional state historic parks, preserving and sharing the storied past of not only the prison but also the broader social, economic, and penal landscape of the times.

What Visitors Will Experience:

Visitors can embark on an enthralling journey through time, wandering through well-preserved cell blocks that once held some of the Wild West’s most notorious outlaws and shady individuals. The meticulously restored cells give a glimpse into daily prison life, revealing the harsh conditions and stern penal practices prevailing during the late 19th century.

Apart from the primary cell blocks, the park also boasts numerous exhibits and displays offering a window into the lives of both prisoners and prison staff. As a museum buff, I must emphasize the richness and attention to historical detail mediated through artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits. From tales of notorious inmates to the nightly anxieties of law-abiding citizens, the museum effortlessly weaves together narratives that paint a vivid picture of life at Yuma Territorial Prison.

Adventurous spirits can explore the sprawling desert surrounds, unveiling the captivating botany, geology, and ecology that coexist within this arid wilderness. Impeccable preservation efforts have safeguarded the original buildings on-site, including the mess hall, library, and warden’s quarters – each offering a distinct insight into retaining order in a tumultuous environment.

The Cultural Importance:

This noted state historic park bears immense cultural relevance, for it provides unprecedented glimpses into the fruitful trinity of Arizona’s pioneer history, penology systems, and indigenous contributions. As an anthropologist, I marveled at the park’s commitment to illuminating the stories of Native American tribes, such as the Quechan and Mojave, whose impact on local heritage carries enduring significance.

Marveling at the multifaceted narrative that encompasses Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park is a thrilling experience. Blending history, admiration for preservation efforts, and a testament to societal evolution, this landmark paints a kaleidoscopic picture of Arizona’s remarkable past. Whether you’re an avid history buff or simply looking to delve into an offbeat cultural adventure, exploring this living repository will undoubtedly imbue you with a newfound appreciation for the rich and complex history of the American Southwest.

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Yuma Territorial Prison & Castle Dome Ghost Town - Private Tour

yuma territorial prison tour

  • Lunch (sub-sandwiches) will be included. Being in Arizona we always carry water for our clients.
  • Entrance Fees included
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Yume Territorial Prison State Park
  • Castle Dome City Ghost Town and Museum
  • By request - Painted Rock Petroglyph Site (included in price)
  • Entry/Admission - Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park
  • Entry/Admission - Castle Dome Mines Museum & Ghost Town
  • We can pick you up at any location in the general Phoenix area and surrounding towns. Watch for our Grey Ford F-150 Crew Cab and be ready to "Explore" Arizona.
  • Near public transportation
  • Stroller accessible
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
  • Most travelers can participate
  • Drive Time to Yuma - 3 hours one way
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
  • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
  • Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

Similar experiences

yuma territorial prison tour

  • You'll get picked up See departure details
  • 1 Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park Stop: 90 minutes - Admission included See details
  • 2 Castle Dome Mines Museum & Ghost Town Stop: 60 minutes - Admission included See details
  • You'll return to the starting point

yuma territorial prison tour

  • lelahw2017 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles What an Amazing Day!!! Everything about our 12+hours day was amazing. Todd communicated with us before our trip and picked us up at our hotel on time and in a clean and spacious F150 crew cab. Our first stop was Walnut Canyon. This is a place we would not have know about unless we took this tour. It was beautiful, amazing and historical. Todd knew a lot about the site. Next we went to The Meteor Crater. Another absolutely amazing destination. Todd shared many details about it as well. Lunch was at historical Las Posadas. Very cool having lunch at a Harvey's Restaurant location. Again Todd was very knowledgeable. Snapped pictures and shopped at "THE corner in Winslow Arizona"!!! The entire trip was catered to my husband and me, since it was a private tour. We spent as long as we wanted at every destination and never felt rushed. Todd was a wonderful conversationalist and oh so knowledgeable. He even gave us ideas of places we could go on other days of our trip. And as we loved this tour so much we took his suggestion and was not disappointed! I highly recommend HAT to anyone coming to the Phoenix area. When we come back we will be using HAT again. Thanks again Todd! Read more Written October 12, 2023
  • sgailr2023 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Private Tour - Meteor Crater, Walnut Canyon and Winslow, Arizona All day private tour to Meteor Crater, Walnut Canyon and Winslow. Todd was a great conversationalist, providing great stories and information about sites along the way. Did a circle route from our hotel pick up in Scottsdale; scenery was amazing! Would highly recommend this tour and guide. Fantastic! Read more Written October 5, 2023
  • aberky11 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Views and more views The views were awesome Todd was our guide he was great and informative. Had a good lunch at La Posada Hotel which was really good. The crater was great also! Read more Written August 31, 2023
  • gloriaw50 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic Private Day Tour To Tombstone - Boothill and San Xavier Del Bac I thoroughly enjoyed this day trip from Scottsdale to Tombstone territory. Todd was a fantastic tour guide because he is very knowledgable about the western era and the western movie genre (including pointing out former filming locations). Todd shared his experiences attending western themed events and his meeting interactions with loads of actors in the movie industry (which included pictures taken with the actors). Another perk was Todd pointed out other places to visit along the Arizona 83-Route. Todd allowed my grandson and I to take our time to look around three stops on the tour, which I appreciated. This private tour is definitely one that I would recommend to others. Read more Written August 1, 2023
  • FarAway33864325739 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour and guide! Highly recommend. We had a great time with Todd our guide. Very knowledgeable of the area and sites. Let us tour at our pace and never felt rushed. Took lots of pictures and thoroughly enjoyed the day. Can’t say enough about how we enjoyed the day and highly recommend this tour to others. Read more Written June 18, 2023
  • SharonB231 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Awesome Personal Tour We were picked up on time at our hotel in a Ford F150 crewcab truck. Vehicle was very clean and comfortable. Our guide Todd was excellent. He provided some good information about the sites and answered all our questions. We never felt rushed. Our first stop was Walnut Canyon National Monument. After the canyon we went to Meteor Crater which was very interesting. Our last stop was at La Posada hotel for lunch and food was excellent. We made a stop for photos on the corner in Winslow then headed back. Todd was an excellent driver and guide. We highly recommend this company and tour. Read more Written June 16, 2023
  • 830pkh 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles You're a Daisy if Ya Do this Tour! Western fans and history buffs, you have to do this day trip to Tombstone! What a great way to spend the day. Todd from Historic Arizona Tours was excellent--gracious, knowledgeable, and friendly. He guided us the entire day from hotel pick up to airport drop off. His truck is modern, large, and comfortable and he supplied us with plenty of water and guidebooks at our disposal. He handled everything we needed and wanted to do in town and remained flexible for whatever we wanted to do. Definitely recommend him! As for the town, well, you just have to experience it to understand. Walking the same streets as Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday is pretty epic. The saloons, the dusty main street, the OK Corral ... it's really something. We went on a Sunday in early June and there were plenty of people in period costumes, shootout and hangings in the street (re-enactments ofc) and plenty of souvenir shopping. The main re-enactment of the OK shootout really put us in the mood. I recommend doing that first thing when you arrive to set the tone. The historama show is worth seeing too--vintage projection from the 1960s, but that just gave it more flavor. Honestly, we could've spent all day there just moseying along the boardwalk sidewalks, talking to the locals, perusing the original architecture. We ate at the Longhorn and it was affordable and delicious. We also stopped at the San Xavier church on the way to Tombstone and it's worth seeing if you're a history buff or like cathedrals. We made it back to the airport in Phoenix by 5PM for an evening flight so a day trip like this is totally doable. Todd is a Phoenix local so if you're looking for a reliable and comfortable tour from Phoenix, this is the tour for you. It does get dusty in Tombstone (it's the desert after all) so bring sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and you may even want an umbrella--but Todd supplies those also, as well as hand sanitizer accessible during the ride. This was a mother/son trip and it was such a unique and memorable experience for us both. Read more Written June 12, 2023
  • Nicola P 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun day Such a fun day with a brilliant guide ! This was a really brilliant day out, lots of fun and great memories. We had initially booked a small group tour and that was cancelled and so we reached out to Todd and this was the best decision we could have made. Todd was super chilled out, really happy to go at our pace, very knowledgeable about the local area and history. Gave us some great tips on the rest of our vacation in Arizona. If we had met him earlier we would have definitely booked more days out with him as we really enjoyed his company. Thank you for a great day Todd - good memories !! Read more Written May 22, 2023
  • Hellosusie 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Nice place to stop! Preserved well and interesting signage. Short walk once you leave the gift store/museum. So sad to see that some of the trees in the area were vandalized. Read more Written May 20, 2023
  • bobbiej664 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Pine Trees in the Desert I loved both the Meteor Crater and Walnut Canyon. The Meteor Crater was very interesting and huge. I would highly recommend you visit. Walnut Canyon was just breathtakingly beautiful. Nestled deep in pine trees, it surprised me. Not your typical dessert area. Without the assistance of HAT, we would never have visited. Todd did an excellent job of planning and executing our trip. He is very knowledgeable about the area and its history. He made it even more enjoyable. We will be going back. See you soon, Todd. Read more Written April 16, 2023
  • B7617UOterryb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent tour of Tombstone with Historic Arizona Tours Took the tour of Tombstone with Historic Arizona Tours. The guide Todd was excellent - really knew his stuff. We got to visit and see the main attractions in Tombstone - the OK Corral (and the re-enactment of the Gunfight at the OK Corral), the historic Bird Cage Theater, the Tombstone Epitaph newspaper offices, the Crystal Palace and Oriental Saloons - all the places you hear about with the Tombstone legend. If you're a western history buff or just interested in the OK Corral story, I highly recommend touring Tombstone with Historic Arizona Tours! Read more Written April 11, 2023
  • B7617UOterryb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles If you love history and enjoy special places - this tour company is for you! Todd was an excellent guide and we thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Meteor Crater and Walnut Canyon, along with a visit for lunch to the beautiful and historic La Posada Hotel in Winslow and their Turquoise Room restaurant. We also got to stand on the "Corner in Winslow AZ" from the famous song. What a treat! Meteor Crater was an astonishment to us - this big crater out in the middle of the high desert and we really enjoyed walking to the overlooks at the crater. From the stark plains, we then visited Walnut Canyon with it's immense forest of pine trees and cliff dwellings. We had the good fortune to run into a herd of elk crossing the road into Walnut Canyon National Monument. All in all, a very special day! This is our second tour with this guide - we also went to Tombstone with them a while ago and we'll have Todd take us on other tours when we return to Phoenix and Arizona. Read more Written March 13, 2023
  • KFCMaryland 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A Sense of Place: Walnut Canyon, Meteor Crater, and Winslow Thanks to Todd and his itinerary for this incredible tour, I just added another day to my list of favorite travel experiences. First, I want to thank Todd for organizing this tour. The three members of our group, which included my husband and sister, were not at all familiar with Walnut Canyon or Meteor Crater, so it was terrific to be introduced to them, their history, and beauty. The stop in Winslow was the ultimate tourist experience. We enjoy trying out beautiful hotels and properties, and the La Posada property and Turquoise Room dining room did not disappoint. Todd was friendly, informative, and courteous—not only the consummate tour guide professional, but an enjoyable companion to spend the day with. His passion for Arizona and in sharing its stunning sights was evident from hotel pick-up to drop-off. I cannot give Todd or this tour high enough marks and am immeasurably grateful to him and his company for this extraordinary and memorable day. Read more Written March 9, 2023
  • SilentTraveler22 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Breathtaking views Very scenic drive. Beautiful experience. Just a very nice outdoor activity. You could pack a lunch&spend the whole day there exploring. Read more Written March 8, 2023
  • karenpH3501BB 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Outstanding Todd, was an outstanding guide that when we are in AZ we are going to hire again. I have already spoken to friends to hire him when they are in AZ. His knowledge of various subjects was wonderful. Todd's patience and being very nice made for a perfect day. Read more Written April 7, 2022

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Yuma Territorial Prison & Castle Dome Ghost Town - Private Tour provided by Historic Arizona Tours (HAT)

yuma territorial prison tour

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Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park – Arizona

Yuma, Arizona is home to the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, a museum housed in the building that once served as a prison for a number of notorious criminals. The park opened in 1961 and its exhibits and programs showcase the stories of its former inmates, the prison’s history, and the early days of the Arizona Territory.

Table of Contents

Exploring History at the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

The Yuma Territorial Prison operated from 1876 to 1909 and housed over 3,000 inmates, including women and children. The prison was known for its harsh living conditions and strict rules. It functioned as a place to hold prisoners for offensives ranging from killing chickens to murder.

The state historic park features a museum with exhibits on the prisoners’ daily lives, punishments, escapes, and famous inmates. Visitors can tour the prison cells and learn about some of the artifacts and artwork created by the prisoners. There is also a gift shop and picnic area for visitors.

The Dark Cell and Gallows

One of the most remarkable features of the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park is the "Dark Cell". The Dark Cell is a small, enclosed space in the basement of the prison where unruly inmates were sent to spend a night or two in complete isolation. Visitors can also see a replica of the gallows which was only used once for a public hanging.

Additional Activities in Yuma

While in Yuma, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The area is known for its sunny climate and outdoor recreation opportunities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The Colorado River runs through the town, providing opportunities for water sports and fishing.

In addition, the town offers other cultural and historical attractions, such as the Yuma Art Center and the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area.

The Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park is a fascinating destination for history buffs and anyone interested in the unique stories of the prisoners who were held there. The prison’s museum and exhibits bring the past to life and provide insight into the harsh conditions of life in the prison during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Additionally, visitors can explore the beautiful natural surroundings and experience Yuma’s outdoor recreation scene during their stay.

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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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yuma territorial prison tour

yuma territorial prison tour

Notable Inmates

yuma territorial prison tour

Mexican Revolutionary

Ricard flores magon.

1906 Established Partido Liberal Mexicano to oppose dictator Porfirio Diaz.

1906 Jailed in Yuma for violations of the Neutrality Act.

1922 Died under questionable circumstances at Leavenworth Penitentiary.

1946 Remains repatriated to Rotonda de los Hombres Ilustres in Mexico City.

yuma territorial prison tour

Bandit Queen

1906 Along with Joe Boot, robbed the Globe to Florence stagecoach.

1906 Became a media sensation around the entire country.

1922 Sentenced to 5 years in Yuma.

1946 Used her feminine wiles with both prisoners and guards alike, pardoned after 2 years.

yuma territorial prison tour

Jealous Rage

Phillip lashley.

  • Convict No. 1194
  • Occupation: Saddle Maker
  • Crime: Murder
  • Sentenced: June 1896

Phillip Lashley fell for Mrs. Maggie Jennings and didn’t like the fact that she had invited Private Saunders back to her mother’s house for ice cream. Phillip followed them there and pulled a gun on Private Saunders taking his life. To learn more, visit the Yuma Territorial Prison.

yuma territorial prison tour

Evidence Found

Guillermo lisaldo.

  • Convict No. 1856
  • Occupation: Laborer
  • Crime: Second-Degree Murder
  • Sentenced: March 1902 for 15 years

Guillermo Lisaldo’s girlfriend was found murdered in a house. The Sheriff found Lisaldo’s belt and memo book at the scene of the murder, but he was nowhere to be found. To learn more, visit the Yuma Territorial Prison.

yuma territorial prison tour

Mormon Prisoner

William jordan flake.

Pioneer to Arizona in 1877

1884 Arrested for unlawful plural marriage. While many fled to Mexico to avoid prosecution, Flake challenged the Edmunds Act calling it a "mockery, a travesty on justice." Served 6 months in prison

Flake lived out his days as a respected community leader and cattleman in Snowflake, AZ. with his two wives, Prudence and Lucy, and their 20 children.

yuma territorial prison tour

Heartbreaker

Elena estrada.

A crime of passion some would say...

Elena Estrada was sentenced to seven years for manslaughter, when she stabbed her unfaithful lover, then cut open his chest, pulled out his heart, and threw the bloody mass into his face.

yuma territorial prison tour

Model Inmate

Es-kay-da-pany.

  • Convict No. 985
  • Sentence: June 1894 for 25 years

Hard labor was an essential part of the rehabilitation process at the Yuma Territorial Prison. Es-Kay-Da-Pany was known as a violent criminal, but prison records show that he was a model inmate without any noted infractions. He tended the garden at the Prison and ran into a mishap where he lost his life. To learn more, visit the Yuma Territorial Prison.

yuma territorial prison tour

Cowboy to Convict

John gatlan.

  • Convict No. 1504
  • Occupation: Cattleman
  • Crime: Grand Larceny
  • Sentenced: June 1899 for 2 years

John Gatlan was a cattleman and laborer who decided that burglary might be a better line of work. Soon after, John was sentenced to one year at the Yuma Territorial Prison and spent 18 days in the dark cell. To learn more about the Prisoners, visit the Yuma Territorial Prison.

yuma territorial prison tour

The Fast Gun

“buckskin” frank leslie.

Worked for Wyatt Earp at the Oriental Bar - Tombstone, Arizona.

Killed Billy Clairborne of the Clanton Gang.

Killed his girlfriend in a drunken rage.

Wyatt Earp was reputed to have said: " Leslie was the only man who could compare to Doc Holiday's blinding speed and accuracy with a six gun."

yuma territorial prison tour

Hero of the Gates Riot

Barney k. riggs.

Sentenced to life for killing a man who was involved with his wife.

Rescued Superintendent Gates from certain death during the Gates Riots.

Pardoned by Governor Sulick on December 31, 1887.

Fatally shot by Buck Chadborne at Fort Stockton, Texas - 1902.

yuma territorial prison tour

The Drifter

Walter lewis.

  • Convict No. 1060
  • Occupation: Clerk
  • Crime: Burglary 2nd Degree
  • Sentenced: May 1895 for 3 years

Walter was given a three year sentence for burglary after spending years drifting across country trying to reach California. During his stay at the Yuma Territorial Prison, Walter was placed in the dark cell twice. To learn more, visit the Yuma Territorial Prison.

yuma territorial prison tour

Two Times the Charm

Edward lopez.

  • Convict: No. 129
  • Sentence Date: November 1882 for 4 years

Edward Lopez was imprisoned at the Yuma Territorial Prison twice. Edward Lopez was not the first convict to spend multiple sentences behind prison walls, but what made his unique was that he was admitted into the Yuma Territorial Prison on November 26th both times. To read more, visit the Yuma Territorial Prison.

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  1. Yuma Territorial Prison State Park, Museum & Exhibits

    yuma territorial prison tour

  2. Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

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  3. Yuma Territorial Prison State Park, Museum & Exhibits

    yuma territorial prison tour

  4. Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

    yuma territorial prison tour

  5. Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

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COMMENTS

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  2. Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

    Sitting on a bluff overlooking the Colorado River, three miles west of the confluence of the Colorado and the historic Gila River, stand the ruins of Arizona's famous Territorial Prison, and a short distance west are the remaining buildings that served as a part of the Yuma Quartermaster's Depot. In 1876, ground was broken, and some of the ...

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  8. Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

    About. On July 1, 1876, the first seven inmates entered the Territorial Prison at Yuma and were locked into the new cells they had built themselves. Today at Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park walk through the actual strap iron cells and solitary chamber of Arizona Territory's first prison. Now a museum, the prison houses photographs ...

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    Built in 1876, Yuma Territorial Prison held just over 3,000 inmates during its 33 years in operation, but the stories during that short time live on today. Nicknamed the "Hellhole of the West," the prison closed in 1909 when the overcrowded facility moved inmates to Florence. Tour the Prison

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    Yuma Territorial Prison is a living museum of the Old West. More than 3,000 desperadoes, convicted of crimes ranging from polygamy to murder, were imprisoned in rock and adobe cells here during the prison's 33-year existence between 1876 and 1909. ... Tour the prison and the fascinating museum, which details the prison's development and tells ...

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    The Yuma Territorial Prison Visitor Center includes a gift shop & restrooms. The park is open from 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. More historic state parks are located throughout Arizona and help tell the story of the rich and varied history of the Grand Canyon State. Restrooms. This park has modern, handicap accessible restrooms in the museum. Gift Shop

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    Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, Yuma, Arizona. 6,974 likes · 202 talking about this · 39,191 were here. The "3:10 To Yuma" stops here. Take a walk through a big piece of Old West History...

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    In 1850, a military post was established at Yuma, and when rich placer gold strikes on the Colorado River precipitated a gold rush in 1858, Yuma experienced a boom. In 1871 Yuma incorporated and became the county seat of Yuma County. The Territorial Prison was authorized by the Legislature in 1875 and $25,000 was budgeted for the project.

  19. Park History

    In 1850, a military post was established at Yuma, and when rich placer gold strikes on the Colorado River precipitated a gold rush in 1858, Yuma experienced a boom. In 1871 Yuma incorporated and became the county seat of Yuma County. The Territorial Prison was authorized by the Legislature in 1875 and $25,000 was budgeted for the project.

  20. Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

    The Yuma Territorial Prison operated from 1876 to 1909 and housed over 3,000 inmates, including women and children. The prison was known for its harsh living conditions and strict rules. It functioned as a place to hold prisoners for offensives ranging from killing chickens to murder. The state historic park features a museum with exhibits on ...

  21. 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 ...

  22. Ghost Tour

    Ghost Tour Category: Events. Tweet: Kids 13 & Under accompanied by one adult are FREE. Enjoy a guided ghost tour at USA Today's #1 Most Haunted Destination Yuma Territorial Prison. Like us on Facebook! Tweet with us on Twitter! ... Yuma Territorial Prison Hours: OPEN 7 Days a Week. 9:00 am - 4:30 pm

  23. Yuma Territorial Prison State Park, Museum & Exhibits

    Soon after, John was sentenced to one year at the Yuma Territorial Prison and spent 18 days in the dark cell. To learn more about the Prisoners, visit the Yuma Territorial Prison. READ MORE . The Fast Gun "Buckskin" Frank Leslie. Worked for Wyatt Earp at the Oriental Bar - Tombstone, Arizona.