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Highlights
- Located in St. Augustine, America's oldest city, discover this notorious jail listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.
- Learn about its fascinating history during a guided tour through the premises.
- See men’s and women’s cells, cell blocks, gallows, and the kitchen as you explore.
- Visit the maximum security section that includes the death row cell.
- Meet Sheriff Joseph Perry's legend, who served as warden of this historic prison.
Your Experience
The historic St. Augustine Old Jail in Florida invites visitors to do some jail time, albeit not in the traditional sense! The famous tourist attraction offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of prison inmates from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It operated as a county jail for 62 years starting from 1891 until 1953 and held 72 prisoners at a given time.
The former prison looks like a quaint Victorian house from the outside. It was intentionally built this way so as not to spook the local residents of St. Augustine. Actors moonlighting as local guides (dressed in jailer outfits, no less) will lead you to the different cell blocks, maximum security area, and gallows, as well as the overhead sheriff’s living quarters. Listen to harrowing stories about the jail’s reputation for carrying out capital punishment. A total of eight prisoners were executed on the gallows. The knowledgeable guides will also regale you with tales about the renowned Sheriff Perry. He ruled with a heavy hand and was revered as well as feared in equal measure.
If all this sounds too grim for your liking, fret not. The tour is designed to inform and enthrall visitors with the penal system while also offering many moments of levity. The St. Augustine Old Jail is not your average tourist attraction but it's guaranteed to make a big impression.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Admission to the St. Augustine Old Jail
- Guided tour in English
- Transportation to the site is not included.
- Transferring between locations is excluded.
- Expenses for personal items are your responsibility.
This product offers multiple ticket options. Some items above (like transfers or fast-track access) may only apply to specific options — confirm what's included when you select yours.
Must Know
- Masks are recommended indoors unless you're vaccinated.
- Note that some areas of the Old Jail aren't accessible by wheelchair.
- Guided tours are conducted in English and run every 15 minutes with limited capacity, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Parking is free at the site; however, make sure to arrive during operating hours from 9am to 4:30pm daily (last tour departs at 4:30pm) or by 3pm on December 24th. The attraction is closed on December 25th.
- Prepare for a security check upon arrival as part of the entry process.
Ticket Delivery
- Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
- Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.
- Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.
Meeting Point
- Meet your guide at The Old Jail .
- Address: 167 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084, United States.
Get Directions to the Meeting Point
Getting There
By Bus
- The closest bus stop is San Marco & May Street. It is a quick 2-minute walk to the meeting point.
- Board buses Redline to get you there.
Validity
- These tickets are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to the most common questions travelers ask before booking this experience.
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