Gangster Museum of America

Can’t get enough gangster history? End your tour with a drink at the Ohio Club, Arkansas’ oldest bar and a former popular hangout for Al Capone and others. – Justine Harrington

Introduction

Prohibition-era gangsters like Al Capone, Frank Costello, George “Bugs” Moran, and Charles "Lucky" Luciano are often linked with cities like Chicago and New York. These cities were considered the epicenter for various crime outfits during that period. However, Hot Springs was also a significant destination for gangsters during Prohibition. The Gangster Museum of America is one of the most captivating local attractions in Hot Springs. It offers an in-depth look at the city's colorful gambling history and its role as a refuge for gangsters escaping law enforcement in Chicago and New York City.

Museum Highlights

Galleries and Exhibits

Several galleries at the museum showcase artifacts and photos from the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s. These displays offer visitors an immersive experience of the historical events that defined these eras, particularly focusing on the notorious gangsters who vacationed in Hot Springs, including Capone, Costello, and Moran.

Antique Casino Equipment and Artifacts

In addition to the historical galleries, the museum features antique casino equipment and Prohibition-era artifacts acquired from collectors. There are also video presentations with eyewitness accounts from former law enforcement agents, adding another layer of authenticity and engagement to the experience.

Informative Tour Guides

Visitors frequently commend the informative tour guides who excel at bringing the city’s history to life. The museum is recommended for anyone interested in local history, not just those fascinated by American gangster culture.

Hours and Tickets

The Gangster Museum of America operates from Sunday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 or 6 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 or 7 p.m., depending on the season. General admission tickets, which include a guided tour of the museum, are priced at $16 for adults, $15 for seniors, and $6 for children ages 8 through 12. Children 7 and younger can enter for free.

The museum's convenient downtown location on Central Avenue places it amid all the local action. For more detailed information, please visit the Gangster Museum of America website.