Old Jail Museum
Step back in time at the Old Jail Museum, where animated tours and historic cells bring the past to life. A unique blend of education and entertainmen...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Old Jail Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the Old Jail Museum, where animated tours and historic cells bring the past to life. A unique blend of education and entertainment.
"The guides are so animated and lively in their prisoner costumes! The museum was informative and fun."
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and skip the line by booking Old Jail Museum tickets in advance online.
🎭 Engage with Guides
The animated guides in costume make the tour incredibly fun and educational. Ask questions!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Animated Tours
Throughout the museum
Guides in character bring the jail's history to life with engaging stories and performances.
Historic Jail Cells
Inside the museum
Explore the original cells and get a tangible sense of what life was like for prisoners.
Gift Shop Treasures
Near the entrance/exit
Find unique souvenirs and mementos to remember your visit to this historic site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Arrive Early for Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and skip the line by booking Old Jail Museum tickets in advance online.
🎭 Engage with Guides
The animated guides in costume make the tour incredibly fun and educational. Ask questions!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking and standing, so wear comfy shoes for your visit.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Plenty of unique spots for photos, especially with the costumed staff out front.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your spot and skip the line by booking Old Jail Museum tickets in advance online.
🎭 Engage with Guides
The animated guides in costume make the tour incredibly fun and educational. Ask questions!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking and standing, so wear comfy shoes for your visit.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Plenty of unique spots for photos, especially with the costumed staff out front.
💰 Bring Quarters
Some machines inside the museum require quarters to operate for interactive experiences.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old Jail Museum for its highly engaging and animated tours, with guides often in character bringing history to life. The educational content is well-delivered, and the interactive elements make for a memorable experience. While generally positive, some may find the historical subject matter intense.
"I've been here twice before so this would be my third time. Our tour guide was so much fun as she explained all the details with expression. You have to make it a point to also go inside and tour the extra stuff. The gift shop had so much to choose from as far as souvenirs to buy. The staff all over the place was nice. There is a restroom that talks to you while you're using it. That was interesting. Make sure you bring quarters with you so that you can play the machines inside the museum. There is plenty of parking."
Alice Rodrigo
"We visited Old Town Trolley and the Old Jail Museum, it was great! The staff were very animated and lively in their prisoner costumes! The museum was informative and had a nice gift shop. The trolley was very convenient and the guide was very friendly. It typically came earlier than the 15 minute pickup intervals so it was easy to hop back on. Very good bang for your buck!"
Metrius Hadley
"We Absolutely LOVE St Augustine! The old jail is fun and educational. The staff are great and preform a role as if they are the inmates and staff. They make the whole experience unique and more fun. They walk you through and tell you the history. You can look, touch and smell, Lots of sensory going on. Its air-conditioned and there is also a gift shop too. Parking on site and bathrooms too. We recommend the trolley tours or just the hop on and off day passes."
Amanda Hensley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Jail Museum is often accessible via local transport or as part of trolley tours. Many visitors arrive via the Old Town Trolley, which offers convenient hop-on/hop-off services. Check local transit options for the specific location you are visiting.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available on-site at the Old Jail Museum, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Depending on your accommodation and the specific location of the Old Jail Museum, walking might be an option. It's often situated in historic districts that are pleasant to explore on foot.
For St. Augustine, the Old Town Trolley is a highly recommended and convenient way to reach the Old Jail Museum, as it stops directly there and offers a comprehensive tour of the area.
While specific public transport details can vary, Jim Thorpe is a walkable town. The Old Jail Museum is often a central point of interest, and local shuttle services or taxis might be available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but booking online in advance is often recommended. Check the official website for the most current pricing for Old Jail Museum tickets.
It is highly recommended to purchase Old Jail Museum tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee entry and potentially avoid queues.
Opening hours can differ by location and season. It's best to check the specific Old Jail Museum's official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Discounts may be available for certain groups such as seniors, children, or military personnel. Inquire directly with the museum or check their website for any special offers on Old Jail Museum tickets.
While tickets may be available for purchase at the Old Jail Museum on the day of your visit, booking ahead online is generally advised to ensure availability and potentially secure better pricing.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
At the Old Jail Museum, you can take guided tours led by animated staff, explore historic jail cells, learn about the history of law and order, and browse the gift shop.
Yes, the tours are highly interactive! Guides often dress as historical figures like inmates and jailers, making the experience engaging and educational.
The Old Jail Museum offers an educational and entertaining experience that can be suitable for older children. The historical context and engaging tours are often enjoyed by families.
A typical visit to the Old Jail Museum, including the guided tour, can last anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the length of the tour and how much time you spend in the gift shop.
Yes, restrooms are available for visitors at the Old Jail Museum. Some locations even feature unique talking toilets!
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography is allowed in most areas, but flash photography might be restricted. It's best to check for any specific signage or ask staff.
The areas outside with costumed staff, the historic cell blocks, and any unique architectural features offer great photo opportunities.
Drone photography is typically not permitted at historical sites like the Old Jail Museum due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check the official policy.
Commercial filming or professional shoots usually require special permits. For personal video recording, check the museum's policy, but it's generally allowed for non-commercial use.
A smartphone camera is usually sufficient for capturing memories. If you prefer, a mirrorless or DSLR camera with a versatile lens can also be great for capturing the historic ambiance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing quarters for the interactive machines inside, which can add an extra layer of fun. The on-site gift shop also offers souvenirs that kids might enjoy. Ensure your children are comfortable with historical narratives that might touch on difficult subjects, but overall, it's a well-executed educational experience that can spark curiosity about the past.
👻 Ghost Hunters & Paranormal Enthusiasts
While the primary focus is historical education, the eerie ambiance and the stories shared during tours can certainly create a spooky experience. If you're looking for a thrill, research if the specific Old Jail Museum you plan to visit has any paranormal-themed programming or if it's known for such occurrences.
📚 History Buffs & True Crime Aficionados
The museum's focus on historical accuracy and the engaging delivery of information by knowledgeable guides make it a valuable visit. It's an opportunity to connect with the past in a tangible way, exploring the stories of individuals who lived and were confined within these walls.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Old Jails as Museums
These museums are crucial for understanding the penal system's development and its impact on communities. By visiting, individuals can gain a deeper appreciation for historical contexts and the evolution of human rights. The preservation of these structures allows future generations to learn from the past, fostering a more informed perspective on justice and society.
Social media content often highlights the 'spooky' or 'haunted' aspects of these old jails, drawing in visitors interested in paranormal experiences. However, the core value lies in their historical significance and the educational opportunities they provide. The Old Jail Museum, in particular, is noted for its animated tours that make history come alive, offering a memorable and informative experience.
Experiencing the Old Jail Museum Tours
These tours provide a deep dive into the jail's history, detailing the lives of those incarcerated and the daily routines within its walls. The guides are adept at bringing the past to life, making the historical narratives relatable and memorable. Many reviews emphasize the guides' knowledge and their ability to connect with the audience, making the educational aspect of the visit highly effective.
Beyond the historical facts, the interactive nature of the tours is a significant draw. The guides often engage directly with visitors, creating a dynamic and personalized experience. This hands-on approach, combined with the unique setting, makes the Old Jail Museum tours a standout attraction for many.
The Role of Old Jails in Local History and Tourism
+1Many Old Jail Museums are integrated into broader tourist offerings, such as walking tours or trolley services, enhancing the visitor experience and providing economic benefits to the local area. The unique atmosphere and historical narratives of these sites make them memorable destinations, often leading to positive word-of-mouth and repeat visits.
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have amplified the visibility of these historic jails, with creators sharing their experiences and highlighting the intriguing aspects of these locations. This digital presence helps attract a wider audience, including younger demographics, who might be drawn to the historical intrigue and the potential for 'spooky' or 'haunted' narratives.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit