Old Jail

Introduction

Built in 1891, St. Augustine's Old Jail was established to house the city's criminals. Financed by railroad magnate Henry Flagler, the jail was designed to harmonize with the Romanesque Revival-style architecture that characterizes the Ancient City. In 1954, the year following its closure, the facility reopened as a historic attraction and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

Exploring the Old Jail

Cell Types and Living Quarters

Visitors can explore various types of cells that held inmates, including maximum-security and solitary confinement areas. Interestingly, the sheriffs and their families resided on-site during the jail's operational years; these living quarters are also part of the tour.

Guided Tours

Previous visitors have lauded the tours of the Old Jail, which are conducted by guides dressed in period attire. These tours are not only informative but also provide a window into the harsh conditions prisoners faced. For those interested in the paranormal, the multi-attraction Ghosts & Gravestones tour—one of St. Augustine's premier ghost tours—comes highly recommended. This tour includes a night visit to the Old Jail, Tolomato Cemetery, and Potter's Wax Museum.

Visiting Information

The Old Jail is located a mile northwest of downtown St. Augustine's historic district, near the Florida Heritage Museum and Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. Visitors can reach the site by driving or taking a trolley. Free on-site parking, restrooms, and a gift shop are available.

Hours and Admission

The attraction is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission costs $17.19 for adults and $9.09 for children aged 4 to 12, while children aged 3 and under can enter for free. Ghosts & Gravestones tour ticket holders do not need to pay an additional entrance fee. For more information, visit the Old Town Trolley Tours website.