Old Jail Museum Tour in St. Augustine

Overview

Located on San Marco Avenue in St. Augustine’s Uptown District, the Old Jail Museum offers an educational and intriguing look into what it would have been like to be a prisoner in the Nation’s Oldest City. Take a guided tour led by the “jailers” for a compelling look at the cells where imprisoned men and women once lived, the maximum security area reserved for the most nefarious criminals and a collection of weapons.

City: St Augustine

Fri 27 Jun

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $18.09

Make a reservation

Fri 27 Jun

Starting at $18.09

Make a reservation

New York City Tours

Unique Activities (21) Transfers & Transportation (175) Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises (252) Entry Tickets (96) Sporting Events (4) Good for Small Groups (27) Seasonal & Holiday Tours (113) Walking Tours (705) Outdoor Activities (48) Limitied Availability Tours (29) LGBT Friendly Tours (9) Family-friendly Activities (8) Wildlife Activities (6) Solo Travelers' Tours (147) Food & Drinks (96) Travelers recommend (174) Good for Groups (32) Top Activities (75) Guided Audio Tours (10) Art, Culture & History (406) Attractions to explore (43) Sustainable Tours (1) Limousine Transfers (5) Donut Walking Tour (2) Virtual Experiences (1) Additional fees (7) DSA non-compliant (17)

What's Included

Admission to Old Jail

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children 5 yrs. and younger are free
Free parking available
Reservations are not accepted; tours operate on a first come, first serve basis on the day of
Museum is wheelchair accessible on lower floor only.

What To Expect

Old Jail Museum

For nearly 60 years – until 1953 – the Old Jail served as the St. Johns County facility for petty thieves and hardened criminals. There were even eight recorded executions, two of which were accused murderers. Sim Jackson, who was hanged in 1908 after murdering his wife with a straight razor, is among the group. Today, visitors learn about the infamous Sheriff Perry, who served from 1889 until 1897 and again from 1901 until 1919. His stature as a “big, bold man” at 6’6” and weighing 300 pounds was intimidating even for the most hardcore of inmates. Though popular in the community, Perry was feared amongst cell inhabitants – both male and female – for his reputation of renting out prisoners to local farmers through a leasing system. Visitors can also take a look at the cell blocks, gallows and sheriff’s quarters. See where the sheriff, his wife and children lived, right upstairs from the prisoners, and how they used their own kitchen to prepare meals for the inmates. A tour through this attraction will show visitors what life was like as an inmate and how the Old Jail helped shape St. Augustine’s history.

Historic Tours of America - St. Augustine

Experience is offered by Historic Tours of America

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (668)

Voyage16962787916

Mar 2025

Patrick, our host, was amazing! Informative and entertaining! We would definitely do this again next time we are in the area.

Response from Host

Mar 2025

We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed your experience with Patrick. It's great to know he made your time informative and entertaining. We can't wait to welcome you back next time you're in the area!

johncB6275VU

Mar 2025

Our guide in the Old Jail was Bennie and he did an excellent job providing an entertaning and informative tour of the facility, My wife and I agreed that this was a very worthwhile tour.

Response from Host

Mar 2025

We’re so glad to hear you enjoyed your time with Bennie. Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear you had a fantastic experience in our museum and enjoyed your time with us. We appreciate your support.

ksjr2007

Mar 2025

We had a great time learning the history behind the old jail and being able to see the grounds and interior. Tour was very informative. Must see stop in St. Augustine if you enjoy historical sites.

Response from Host

Mar 2025

We're thrilled to hear that you found the tour informative. We appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back on another tour soon.