
Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine
Explore America's first state prison and copper mine, descending into chilling underground cells and uncovering centuries of history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring

Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore America's first state prison and copper mine, descending into chilling underground cells and uncovering centuries of history.
"A fascinating historical gem with an unforgettable underground adventure!"

🧥 Bring a Sweater!
Mine is a constant 52°F (11°C). Essential for comfort! :cloud:
👟 Sturdy Shoes Needed
The mine floor is damp and can be slippery. Closed-toe shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Copper Mine
Underground
Descend 75 feet into the earth to explore the historic copper mine, a cool and damp subterranean world.

Prisoner Cells
Underground
Experience the chilling reality of 18th-century incarceration in the dark, cramped underground cells.

Historic Grounds & Ruins
Above ground
Wander through the remnants of America's first state prison and discover its layered history.

Light Into the Dungeon
Underground
A special seasonal event where the mine glows with hundreds of intricately carved jack-o'-lanterns.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress for the Underground
Book Your Mine Tour
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Bring a Sweater!
Mine is a constant 52°F (11°C). Essential for comfort! :cloud:
👟 Sturdy Shoes Needed
The mine floor is damp and can be slippery. Closed-toe shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Book Mine Tour Early
Guided mine tours are hourly and fill up fast. Secure your spot! :ticket:
🔦 Watch Your Head
Some mine passages have low ceilings. Be mindful of your surroundings. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Bring a Sweater!
Mine is a constant 52°F (11°C). Essential for comfort! :cloud:
👟 Sturdy Shoes Needed
The mine floor is damp and can be slippery. Closed-toe shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
⏰ Book Mine Tour Early
Guided mine tours are hourly and fill up fast. Secure your spot! :ticket:
🔦 Watch Your Head
Some mine passages have low ceilings. Be mindful of your surroundings. :warning:
💰 Affordable History
Great value for the price, especially compared to other seasonal events. :moneybag:
🗣️ Knowledgeable Guides
The tour guides are excellent and bring the history to life.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine for its fascinating history and engaging guided tours. The unique underground experience, especially the cool mine environment, is a major draw. While some find the historical context somber, most appreciate the educational value and affordability of the visit.
"Been here a few times through the years and have always enjoyed my visit. Self guided on the grounds and a knowledge tour guide takes you underground through the mine in groups at scheduled times. The mine is cool and damp with a railing to hold onto. Some areas you will need to watch your head. Interesting place full of history and fascinating stories. Fun for kids. Gift shop. Worth a visit."
Clarisse Matisyn
"Me and family we have a great time history was interesting. 52 degrees so make sure you take sweater I really recommend to go price was $10.00 each"
Nancy Castro
"A part of Connecticut history many people are unaware of. You should definitely visit. The tour guides are excellent."
Laura M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine is located at 115 Newgate Rd, East Granby, CT. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, there is parking available at the Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine site.
Operating hours typically run from May through October. From May to September, it's open Thursday through Monday, 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Hours change in October for the 'Light into the Dungeon' event. Always check the official website for the most current hours.
No, Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine is a seasonal attraction, generally open from May to October. It is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the regular season.
Public transportation to Old New-Gate Prison is very limited. It's best to plan your visit with a car or consider ride-sharing services if available in the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices are generally affordable. Adults (18-64) are around $10, seniors (65+) are about $8, and youth prices vary. The 'Light into the Dungeon' event has a separate, higher ticket price, around $20.
While not always mandatory for general admission, it's highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for the guided mine tours, as they are timed and can sell out. For special events like 'Light into the Dungeon,' advance purchase is essential.
Yes, guided tours are mandatory for exploring the underground copper mine. These tours are typically offered hourly and are included with your admission.
Admission typically includes access to the prison grounds and the guided tour of the copper mine. Some special events may have separate ticketing.
Yes, there are usually discounted rates for seniors (65+) and often for youth. Check the official website for specific age ranges and pricing.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic prison grounds and ruins, and take a guided tour into the 18th-century copper mine. The mine features underground cells and offers a glimpse into early industrial and penal history.
This is a popular seasonal event in October where the underground mine is illuminated with hundreds of jack-o'-lanterns, creating a spooky and festive atmosphere.
Yes, many visitors find it fun for kids, offering a unique historical and slightly spooky experience. The mine tour can be particularly engaging for younger visitors.
A visit, including the guided mine tour, usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. You can spend additional time exploring the grounds.
Yes, the site often has interpreters and knowledgeable guides who can provide context and answer questions about the prison's history and the mine.
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
There is a gift shop on-site, which may offer some snacks or drinks. However, full dining facilities are generally not available. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after your visit.
Bringing your own snacks and drinks is usually permitted for consumption on the grounds, but check specific site rules. Eating is typically not allowed inside the mine.
Yes, the surrounding area of East Granby and nearby towns like Granby and Simsbury offer various dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed on the grounds and inside the mine. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the historic environment or for the comfort of other visitors.
The underground mine with its unique rock formations and the historic prison ruins above ground offer great photographic opportunities. The 'Light into the Dungeon' event is particularly photogenic.
Yes, you can usually take photos during the guided mine tour, but be mindful of your surroundings and the guide's instructions. The low light conditions in the mine can be challenging.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's recommended to dress children in layers, as the mine is consistently cool. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for navigating the damp and potentially slippery mine paths. While the historical context is serious, the site is generally considered suitable for most school-aged children, offering educational value in a memorable setting.
👻 Halloween Enthusiasts
Beyond the special event, the prison's history itself lends a naturally eerie ambiance. Many believe the site is haunted, adding an extra layer of intrigue for paranormal enthusiasts. The dark, underground tunnels and the stories of past prisoners contribute to its reputation as one of Connecticut's most unsettling locations.
🏛️ History Buffs
The guided tours provide in-depth historical context, and the preserved underground environment allows for an immersive understanding of the past. The recognition of figures like Prince Mortimer also adds crucial social history to the narrative, highlighting the diverse and often difficult lives of those who were incarcerated.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Early American History
The site has also become a point of historical recognition for individuals like Prince Mortimer, a former prisoner whose life story highlights themes of enslavement, denied freedom, and unjust imprisonment. The installation of commemorative placards acknowledges these often-overlooked narratives, adding depth to the visitor experience.
Today, the site is managed to preserve its historical integrity while making it accessible to the public. Interpretive programs and guided tours aim to educate visitors about the harsh realities of life for both miners and prisoners, making it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts.
The Underground Experience
Access to the mine is exclusively via timed, guided tours. These tours are crucial for safety and context, as guides share stories of the mine's past and point out significant features. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes due to potentially slippery and uneven surfaces. Some passages have low ceilings, requiring visitors to watch their heads.
During October, the mine transforms for the 'Light into the Dungeon' event, where hundreds of jack-o'-lanterns illuminate the tunnels, creating a festive and spooky atmosphere. This popular event draws significant crowds and offers a unique, visually striking experience that blends history with seasonal celebration.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit