Tour of St. Augustine Old Jail Museum
Highlights
- Visit the renowned St. Augustine jail, located in the oldest city in the U.S.A., a significant site on the National Registry of Historic Places.
- Immerse yourself in the jail's rich history with a knowledgeable guided tour.
- Discover the men's and women's cells, cell blocks, gallows, and kitchen during your visit.
- Experience the maximum security section, including the infamous death row cell.
- Learn about Sheriff Joseph Perry, a legendary figure who served as the prison's warden.
Inclusions
- Entry to St. Augustine Old Jail
- English guided tour included
Cancellation Policy
Your Experience
Step back in time at the St. Augustine Old Jail in Florida, where you can immerse yourself in the intriguing world of historical prison life without actually serving time. This renowned attraction provides a unique window into the daily routines of inmates during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Serving as a county jail for over six decades, from 1891 to 1953, the facility housed up to 72 prisoners at once.
From the outside, the former jail resembles a charming Victorian residence, a deliberate choice to blend in with the surrounding St. Augustine community. Knowledgeable guides, in authentic jailer attire, will escort you through the various cell blocks, the high-security section, the gallows, and even the sheriff's living quarters above. Prepare to hear chilling accounts of the jail's history of carrying out capital punishment, including the execution of eight inmates on the gallows. Stories of the infamous Sheriff Perry, known for his strict yet respected leadership, add another layer of intrigue to the experience.
Despite its somber past, the tour balances informative insights into the penal system with moments of light-heartedness, ensuring a captivating visit for all. The St. Augustine Old Jail stands out as a must-visit attraction, promising a memorable journey through a significant chapter of Florida's history.
Essential Details for Your Visit
Key Points to Note
- For your safety, wearing masks indoors is highly recommended, except for those who are fully vaccinated.
- Kindly be aware that certain areas of the Old Jail are not accessible to individuals using wheelchairs.
- Please note that the guided tour is conducted exclusively in English.
- Complimentary parking facilities are provided at the venue for visitors.
Operating Schedule
Guided tours are scheduled every 15 minutes. Reservations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, with limited spots available for each tour.
- Operating Hours: Daily from 9am to 4:30pm (final tour starts at 4:30pm).
- Special Schedule: On 24 Dec, the last tour commences at 3pm.
- Closure: Please be informed that the attraction is closed on 25 Dec.
My Tickets
- Receive your voucher via email immediately upon booking.
- Show the voucher on your phone along with a valid ID when you reach the meeting point.
- Arrive at the designated spot 15 minutes before your scheduled visit to ensure a smooth experience.
Meeting Point
- Find your guide at The Old Jail.
- Location: 167 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States.
Access Directions to the Meeting Point
Getting There
Traveling By Bus
- The nearest bus stop is San Marco & May Street, just a brief 2-minute stroll from the meetup spot.
- Opt for the Redline buses for convenient transportation.
Validity
- Your tickets remain valid for 12 months starting from the purchase date.