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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
Sat 07 Jun
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $18.09
Sat 07 Jun
Starting at $18.09
Make a reservation
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
1
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.
2
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.

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