Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine - Image 1
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Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine

4.7
·71 reviews·East Granby, United States

Explore America's first state prison and copper mine, descending into chilling underground cells and uncovering centuries of history.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

May - Oct, Weekends

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
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Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine - Image 1

Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine

Best Time

May - Oct, Weekends

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore America's first state prison and copper mine, descending into chilling underground cells and uncovering centuries of history.

4.7
(71 reviews)

"A fascinating historical gem with an unforgettable underground adventure!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Copper Mine

The Copper Mine

Underground

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

Instagram+1
Prisoner Cells

Prisoner Cells

Underground

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

TikTokInstagram
Historic Grounds & Ruins

Historic Grounds & Ruins

Above ground

Wander through the remnants of America's first state prison and discover its layered history.

Instagram+1
Light Into the Dungeon

Light Into the Dungeon

Underground

A special seasonal event where the mine glows with hundreds of intricately carved jack-o'-lanterns.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Dress for the Underground

The copper mine stays a cool 52°F (11°C) year-round. Bring a sweater or jacket, even in summer! Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes as the mine can be damp and slippery. Reddit+1

Book Your Mine Tour

Access to the underground copper mine is by timed, guided tour only. Tours are hourly and can fill up, especially during peak season. Arrive early to secure your spot. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
May - Oct, Weekends
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
October Evenings
Why
Spooky 'Light into the Dungeon'
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate visit
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This one was actually unsettling 🗝️🎃 #halloweeninnewengland #oldnewgateprison #haunted #granby #halloween2025
@mybloodygalentine
15.2K likes • 132.3K views

🧥 Bring a Sweater!

Mine is a constant 52°F (11°C). Essential for comfort! Reddit+1 :cloud:

👟 Sturdy Shoes Needed

The mine floor is damp and can be slippery. Closed-toe shoes are a must. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

This past Sunday, Halloween New England took a step back in time—and several steps underground—for Light into the Dungeon at Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine in East Granby, CT. 🎃 🕸️Event details at HalloweenNewEngland.com - link in BIO Once used to house prisoners in pitch darkness, the historic copper mine now glows with over 300 intricately carved Jack O’ Lanterns, guiding visitors through ...
halloweennewengland
80 likes • 2.1K views
Bored this weekend? Live in Connecticut and wondering what to do? 👀 You have to check out Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine in East Granby. It’s 75 feet underground, once a real 1700s prison, and this month it’s glowing with over 300 jack-o’-lanterns for Light Into the Dungeon. 🎃 It’s spooky, historic, and seriously one of the coolest fall experiences in the state! Location: Old New-Gate Pri...
caitlyngradmarketing
19 likes • 521 views

⏰ Book Mine Tour Early

Guided mine tours are hourly and fill up fast. Secure your spot! Instagram :ticket:

🔦 Watch Your Head

Some mine passages have low ceilings. Be mindful of your surroundings. Instagram :warning:

Old New-Gate prison and copper mine in Connecticut! Open May 2025 - Oct 2025 Thursday 10:00 - 4:30 Friday 10:00 - 4:30 Saturday 10:00 - 4:30 Sunday 10:00 - 4:30 Monday 10:00 - 4:30 Tuesday CLOSED Wednesday CLOSED *Hours will change in October to accommodate the Light into the Dungeon Event. Adult (18-64) $10 Senior (65 +) $8 Youth (6-17) $5 Child (0-5) FREE #newgateprison #newgatep...
newenglandfamadventures
11 likes • 223 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Bring a Sweater!

Mine is a constant 52°F (11°C). Essential for comfort! Reddit+1 :cloud:

👟 Sturdy Shoes Needed

The mine floor is damp and can be slippery. Closed-toe shoes are a must. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

⏰ Book Mine Tour Early

Guided mine tours are hourly and fill up fast. Secure your spot! Instagram :ticket:

🔦 Watch Your Head

Some mine passages have low ceilings. Be mindful of your surroundings. Instagram :warning:

💰 Affordable History

Great value for the price, especially compared to other seasonal events. Instagram :moneybag:

🗣️ Knowledgeable Guides

The tour guides are excellent and bring the history to life. Reddit+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(71 reviews)

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

Fascinating history
Knowledgeable guides
Unique mine tour

What People Dislike

Chilly underground
Slippery mine floor

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. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at the Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine site. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Yes, guided tours are mandatory for exploring the underground copper mine. These tours are typically offered hourly and are included with your admission. InstagramReddit

Admission typically includes access to the prison grounds and the guided tour of the copper mine. Some special events may have separate ticketing. Instagram

Yes, there are usually discounted rates for seniors (65+) and often for youth. Check the official website for specific age ranges and pricing. Instagram

🎫 🧭 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. Instagram+2

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. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

A visit, including the guided mine tour, usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. You can spend additional time exploring the grounds. Reddit

Yes, the site often has interpreters and knowledgeable guides who can provide context and answer questions about the prison's history and the mine. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍴 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

📸 📸 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. TikTok

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine offers a unique and engaging experience for families. The guided tour into the underground mine is often a highlight for children, providing a sense of adventure and a tangible connection to history. The cool temperatures and the novelty of being underground can be exciting. Reddit

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. Reddit

👻 Halloween Enthusiasts

For those who love a good scare or a spooky atmosphere, Old New-Gate Prison is a must-visit, especially during October. The 'Light into the Dungeon' event transforms the historic mine into a glowing spectacle of hundreds of jack-o'-lanterns, creating an unforgettable Halloween experience. TikTokInstagram+1

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. Instagram+1

🏛️ History Buffs

This site is a treasure trove for anyone interested in early American history, penal systems, and industrial heritage. As the nation's first chartered copper mine and first state prison, Old New-Gate offers a direct link to the challenges and realities of colonial life. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Early American History

Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine holds a significant place in American history. Established as Connecticut's first chartered copper mine in 1707, it later transformed into the state's first official prison in 1773. This dual history offers a unique perspective on early colonial industry and penal practices. Prisoners, including those held during the Revolutionary War, were often housed directly within the mine's tunnels, a stark contrast to modern correctional facilities. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

The Underground Experience

The most distinctive feature of Old New-Gate Prison is its underground copper mine. Visitors descend approximately 75 feet below the surface to explore a network of tunnels that once buzzed with mining activity and later served as grim living quarters for prisoners. The environment is consistently cool and damp, maintaining a temperature of around 52°F (11°C) year-round, making a sweater or jacket essential even on warm days. Reddit+1

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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