The Old Jail Museum
St. Augustine, Florida
If you’re planning a trip to St. Augustine, Florida, the Old Jail Museum is a must-see attraction that offers a unique glimpse into the city’s past. Built in 1891, this historic jail housed prisoners for over 60 years and now serves as an interactive museum where visitors can experience what life was like behind bars.
What to Expect at the Old Jail Museum
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by costumed guides portraying deputies or inmates, who will lead you on a 30-minute tour through the facility. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and hysterical.
Learn about different ways they would humiliate inmates.
The Gallows
Take a peek at the gallows, where executions took place. It was interesting to learn the inmates had to build their own gallows and they were visible from the cells on Death Row.
Explore the Original Cells
Get a chance to walk inside the cells to imagine what life behind bars was like. It was crazy to imagine so many people sharing one cell. The guides share intriguing stories about the jail’s history, notorious prisoners, and the harsh conditions they endured.
It was eerie to see the mannequins there.
One thing that will stick with me was seeing the names and initials carved in to the walls in the Death Row cells.
Get a glimpse of the kitchen and learn about the disgusting food they had to eat. Talk about torture.
Get a peek inside the luxurious quarters of the sheriff.
Here they would store guns and equipment
And enjoy their free time while the prisoners were doing time right across the hall.
A big contrast to what they ate in the prison area.
Check out this fingerprint kit.
This tour will make a huge impression on you. Especially after learning that so many people imprisoned here were innocent.
Who Should Visit?
The Old Jail Museum is perfect for visitors of all ages. Families will appreciate the interactive and educational aspects of the tour, while history enthusiasts will enjoy the in-depth look into the penal system of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It’s also a great stop for those interested in the paranormal, as the jail is rumored to be haunted, adding an extra layer of intrigue to your visit.
Tips for Your Visit
It’s part of the Old Town Trolley Tours, which offers convenient packages if you’re looking to explore more of what St. Augustine has to offer.
Hours of Operation: The Old Jail Museum is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with tours departing every 15 minutes.
Parking: Free on-site parking is available, making it convenient to access the museum and other nearby attractions.
Dining Options: While the Old Jail Museum doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, there are several dining options nearby. The museum is located in the Old Town district, which offers a variety of restaurants and cafes within walking distance.
Old Jail Museum
167 San Marco Ave
 St. Augustine, FL 32084.
Visiting the Old Jail Museum provides a fascinating and immersive experience into St. Augustine’s history. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, it’s an attraction that offers a unique perspective on the city’s past and is well worth a visit. As always, all experiences and opinions are of MyTravelingKids.com.
