About Missouri State Penitentiary
This Missouri State Penitentiary opened its doors in 1836 and was the oldest continually operating prison west of the Mississippi River. The prison was decommissioned in 2004 and now serves as a significant historic landmark in downtown Jefferson City. Step back in time and discover the intriguing 168-year history of the prison on one of our guide-led tours. Hear about escape attempts, riots, female inmates, and more. Or take one of our paranormal tours for a guaranteed fun and frightening experience. You will learn about the first-hand ghostly sightings at MSP or hunt for paranormal activity.
In conjunction with the tours, visit the Missouri State Penitentiary Museum located in the Col. Darwin Marmaduke House (the former warden’s home) to learn additional historical information about the famous prison that operated for 168 years. The museum houses MSP memorabilia as well as a replica cell that demonstrates the living conditions at the prison. Visitors can view displays providing information on prison industries, contract labor/private industries, life inside the walls, and control/counter-control. Admission is $2 or free with the purchase of a tour ticket.
For tour tickets and operating hours, please visit MissouriPenTours.com.
