The St. Augustine Old Jail Museum‘s guided tour offers an immersive glimpse into the grim realities of 19th-century prison life. Led by former jailers, visitors can explore the jail’s cells, maximum security area, and the sheriff’s quarters, gaining insights into the facility’s profound historical significance. With tours running every 15 minutes from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, this educational adventure caters to all ages. But the tour’s true allure lies in the captivating storytelling of the guides, who shed light on the jail’s dark past and leave guests wondering about the untold tales that still linger within its walls.
Key Points
- The guided tours of the St. Augustine Old Jail Museum last 1-2.5 hours and provide an immersive historical experience led by former jailers.
- Tour pricing starts at $394 per person, with tours operating every 15 minutes from 9 AM to 4:30 PM and free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
- The tour features exploration of prisoners’ cells, maximum security area, gallows, and sheriff’s quarters, along with a discussion about the jail’s grim history.
- The Jail After Dark Paranormal Tour, available for ages 13 and up, is a 2.5-hour ghost hunting experience in the notoriously haunted building.
- The museum is easily accessible on San Marco Avenue, a short walk from St. Augustine’s historic district, with ample public parking available for visitors.
Tour Overview
The St. Augustine Old Jail Museum offers a guided tour that takes visitors through the building’s historical cells, maximum security area, gallows, and sheriff’s quarters.
The tour is priced from $394 per person and lasts 1-2.5 hours, with tours running every 15 minutes from 9 am to 4:30 pm.
The tour is conducted in English, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Guests meet at the Old Jail, located at 167 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084.
The tour is led by knowledgeable jailers, providing an immersive experience as visitors explore this historic site and learn about its significance.
Tour Features
Guided tours of the St. Augustine Old Jail Museum are led by former jailers, providing visitors an immersive experience as they explore the prisoners’ cells, maximum security area, gallows, and sheriff’s quarters.
Guests will meet Sheriff Joe Perry and discuss the grim history of executions carried out in the jail’s gallows.
They’ll walk through the prisoners’ cramped quarters and the imposing maximum security section, getting a glimpse into the harsh realities inmates faced.
The tour also takes visitors to the sheriff’s living chambers, shedding light on the daily lives of those who oversaw the facility.
Throughout the experience, guests will learn about the Old Jail’s profound historical significance.
Paranormal Investigation Tour
Besides the regular guided tours, the St. Augustine Old Jail Museum offers a spooky Jail After Dark Paranormal Tour for thrill-seeking visitors aged 13 and up.
This 2.5-hour investigation allows guests to grab ghost hunting equipment and explore the notoriously haunted building, searching for signs of the supernatural.
Visitors will be trained to use specialized tools as they investigate the cells, gallows, and other chilling areas of the Old Jail, which is widely considered St. Augustine’s most haunted site.
Participants may encounter unexplained phenomena, from ghostly sounds to eerie apparitions, as they explore the jail’s dark history and uncover its paranormal secrets.
This thrilling tour provides an unforgettable experience for anyone intrigued by the supernatural.
Tour Frequency
1-Hour Guided Tours run every 15 minutes from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with the last tour at 3 PM on December 24.
Visitors can choose from a variety of time slots to explore the Old Jail’s fascinating history. The guided tour takes guests through the prisoners’ cells, the maximum security area, the gallows, and the sheriff’s quarters.
Led by individuals portraying historical jailers, the tours offer a captivating and immersive experience, transporting visitors back in time to witness the jail’s grim realities.
Whether you’re an early bird or prefer the afternoon, the Old Jail’s flexible tour schedule ensures there’s an option to suit every visitor’s needs and schedule.
Age Restrictions
The Old Jail Museum‘s guided tours welcome visitors of all ages, but the Jail After Dark paranormal tour is restricted to guests 13 and older. This age limitation ensures the paranormal investigation aligns with the tour’s focus on the jail’s haunted history. Younger children may find the ghostly elements unsettling or inappropriate.
During the 1-hour guided tours, families can explore the jail’s cells, maximum security, gallows, and sheriff’s quarters without concern over age-appropriate content. The museum’s policies prioritize the comfort and safety of all guests, whether they’re seeking a historical overview or a thrilling paranormal experience.
Visitors should review the age guidelines when selecting their preferred tour option.
Prohibited Items
Visitors to the St. Augustine Old Jail Museum should be aware that certain items are prohibited on the premises. Pets, smoking, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed during the tours, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for all guests.
The following table outlines the prohibited items and the reasoning behind the restrictions:
| Item | Reason |
|---|---|
| Pets | For the safety and comfort of other visitors |
| Smoking | To maintain a clean, smoke-free environment |
| Alcohol | To prevent disruptive behavior and ensure a family-friendly atmosphere |
| Drugs | To comply with local laws and provide a secure setting |
Adhering to these rules helps preserve the historical integrity of the Old Jail Museum and allows visitors to fully enjoy the captivating history and paranormal experiences offered during the tours.
Customer Feedback
Reviewers overwhelmingly praise the engaging guide, who delivers a captivating and informative presentation that brings the Old Jail’s history to life. Many visitors highlight the exceptional value for money, with one reviewer noting, ‘The price was very reasonable for such an immersive and entertaining experience.’
The overall service and organization of the tour also receive high marks, with guests describing the process as seamless and well-executed. As one visitor summarizes, the Old Jail is a ‘must-see attraction’ in St. Augustine, offering a unique and memorable glimpse into the past:
- Campy yet informative portrayal of historical characters
- Engaging displays that enhance the educational experience
- A truly haunting ambiance that captivates the imagination
Getting to the Old Jail
Conveniently located on San Marco Avenue, the Old Jail Museum stands just a short stroll from the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district.
Visitors can easily access the museum by foot, with many of the city’s charming cafes, shops, and landmarks just minutes away. For those driving, ample public parking is available nearby, making it a breeze to incorporate the Old Jail tour into your St. Augustine sightseeing itinerary.
The museum’s central location ensures it’s easily accessible no matter how you choose to explore the nation’s oldest city. With its prime setting and convenience, the Old Jail is a must-visit attraction that seamlessly fits into any St. Augustine adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility needs can fully participate in the guided tour, which takes visitors through the jail’s various historical areas and exhibits.
How Often Are Guided Tours Conducted in Other Languages?
While the 1-hour guided tours are only offered in English, the Old Jail Museum may provide tours in other languages upon request, depending on availability of multilingual guides. Visitors should inquire about this option when booking their tour.
Are Discounts Available for Senior Citizens or Students?
The tour does not offer any discounts for senior citizens or students. However, the regular admission price of $9.95 for adults is considered good value for the guided experience provided.
What Are the Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?
There are no strict dress code requirements for the tour. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, as the tour may involve navigating uneven surfaces within the historic jail facility.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Visitors are generally allowed to take photographs during the tour, though some restrictions may apply. It’s best to check with the tour guides on any specific photography guidelines before the tour begins.
Recap
The St. Augustine Old Jail Museum Guided Tour offers a spellbinding exploration of the facility’s grim past.
Visitors can explore the realities of prison life, guided by former jailers who bring the experience to life through captivating storytelling.
Whether seeking an educational adventure or a paranormal investigation, this tour provides a unique glimpse into the jail’s profound historical significance, leaving guests with a profound appreciation for the past.
