While most folks wouldn’t consider a stint in prison part of their typical vacation plans, tours of historic locations offer spooky fun for the whole crew.
Whether you want to learn about the creepy histories of these facilities or you’re embarking on a ghost hunt, you won’t want to miss these epic adventures.
Join us for five of the ultimate prison tours in the US.
Let’s lock it up!
Why are Prison Tours the Creepiest Attractions this Fall?
Dark tourism is an unusual subset of the travel world, gaining popularity among those with a morbid fascination. Places associated with tragedy and death tend to attract curious visitors. Chernobyl, the Roman Colosseum, and Auschwitz are a few international examples.
It’s no surprise that prison tours feature high on the list of dark tourism destinations. After all, most people only explore the jailhouse after being locked up for criminal activity. Fortunately, you don’t have to commit to a lengthy stay to venture into numerous notable slammers.
Of course, the history surrounding these locations runs deep. Countless atrocities occurred within the walls of these facilities. Today, many believe restless spirits still roam these institutions.
If the idea of venturing into a haunted prison sounds thrilling, you’ll have plenty of options. Throughout the US, folks who don’t intend to commit their own crimes can get a look into lockup at both former and active penal institutions.
Here are five spine-tingling haunted prisons to add to your travel bucket list.
#1 Alcatraz
Alcatraz just might be the most famous prison in the country. Located on a tiny island in San Francisco Bay, this imposing structure has served as a fort, military prison, and maximum-security federal pen.
In its heyday, notorious criminals like Al Capone served time here. Lesser-known inmates included some of the most violent offenders in the nation. It was the site of murders, suicides, and brutal treatment by hardened wardens.
Today, Alcatraz is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The prison offers both guided and self-guided tours. During the day, you can stroll the island and learn about both life behind bars and the native wildlife found in the area.
For an extra spooky experience, consider taking an evening ferry ride to Alcatraz and joining the after-hours activities. You never know what might go bump in the night. Best of all, you’ll enjoy the striking city skyline on your way back to the mainland.
Here are 11 Places You Shouldn’t Visit in the US!
#2 Eastern State Penitentiary
Just outside of Philadelphia is a sprawling, castle-like structure once known as the most expensive prison in the US. During its operation, it earned a reputation as an incredibly brutal environment. In fact, all inmates lived in solitude. They were forced to wear head coverings during transport to ensure they had no human interaction.
According to visitors, disembodied footsteps, maniacal laughter, and mysterious shadows are common throughout the institution.
This haunted prison offers many different ways to explore the grounds. Throughout the year, they lead daytime tours. In the summer months, you can check out the destination after dark. As the spooky season approaches, they host Halloween Nights featuring five haunted houses, themed bars, and live music.
#3 Ohio State Reformatory
The Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield first opened its doors in 1896. For nearly 100 years, it housed a range of offenders, most of whom committed relatively minor crimes. At one point, they changed tactics, offering inmates more rehabilitation services than punitive treatment.
When it closed in 1990, the Ohio State Reformatory became a major filming location. You might recognize it from movies like The Shawshank Redemption.
This prison is considered haunted by many. In fact, you can enter the spookiest areas of the facility on public ghost hunts. They have EMF meters for sale, which will alert you to any spirits in your midst. Serious paranormal researchers can even book the space for private investigations.
Eager for more? Learn Why People Visit the Ohio State Reformatory!
#4 Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary
Nestled in the Cumberland Mountains of Tennessee, Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary was once a prison and a labor camp. Inmates were worked to death in the nearby coal mines. The prison was known for its overcrowded conditions and violent detainees.
The pen closed in 2009 but houses some unexpected features today. A distillery produces featured tonics like End of the Line Moonshine, Double Barrel Whiskey, and Frozen Head Vodka. Additionally, the Warden’s Table restaurant serves food that would’ve made former inmates want to stick around.
Of course, you can also explore the former prison through many self-guided and structured tours. Sign up for a paranormal excursion to get in touch with the other side, or attend one of the public events like classic car shows and live music.
#5 Angola Prison
Louisiana State Penitentiary, also known as Angola, is the only maximum-security prison farm in the Bayou State. Once considered the bloodiest prison in America, the still-active facility now focuses more on reform than brutal punishment.
Throughout the year, you can take self-guided tours of the prison museum. However, you’ll get a more immersive experience by attending the annual Angola Prison Rodeo. Here, you can watch inmates ride bucking broncos, perform barrel races, and test their fate in Convict Poker, where they play cards in an arena with a loose bull.
During this time, you can also peruse one-of-a-kind creations at the Arts and Crafts Festival.
Grab a copy of Images of America: History of Alcatraz Island!
Prison Tours Will Chill You to the Bone!
Folks hoping to encounter ghostly figures in a haunted prison have many options throughout the US. From notorious slammers like Alcatraz to active detention centers in the Deep South, there’s something for everyone on one of these spooky prison tours.
We suggest staying on your best behavior. After all, you wouldn’t want the lingering spirits to keep you there after hours!
We’ll Help You Find the Best Free Camping in the USA
You should give it a try!
As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours to enjoy. Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.
Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers who love to score the best site!
We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state). Access the list by submitting your email below: