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Folsom Prison Museum: Behind the Granite Walls

Discover the gripping history of Folsom Prison at the Big House Prison Museum, exploring exhibits and stories from behind the walls.

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Explore the intriguing history of Folsom Prison at the Big House Prison Museum in Represa, California. Located just outside the imposing granite walls of the infamous Folsom State Prison, the museum offers a rare glimpse into the lives of inmates and staff, showcasing artifacts, artwork, and stories from over a century of incarceration.

A brief summary to Folsom Prison Museum

  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website or call ahead to confirm opening hours, as they can be subject to change.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits and learn about the prison's history.
  • Bring cash for the $2 admission fee, as credit card payments may require a minimum purchase.
  • Be aware that the museum is located on the grounds of an active prison, so security measures are in place.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from Sacramento, take US-50 E towards South Lake Tahoe. Take exit 21 for Folsom Blvd. Continue on Folsom Blvd to the intersection with 3rd St. Turn right onto 3rd St. Continue onto Folsom Prison Road. Follow Prison Road all the way to the Visitor Parking Center on your left. Park here and walk through the entrance gate; the museum is on your right. Parking is free in the visitor lot.

  • Public Transport

    From Sacramento, take the Sacramento Regional Transit Light Rail Gold Line towards Folsom. Get off at the Historic Folsom Station. From there, take Bus Route 10 and get off at the stop near Folsom Prison Road. Follow Prison Road to the Visitor Parking Center on your left. Walk through the entrance gate; the museum is on your right. A one-way light rail fare is approximately $2.50. Check SacRT for current schedules.

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Discover more about Folsom Prison Museum

The Folsom Prison Museum, also known as the Big House Prison Museum, provides a sobering look into the history of Folsom State Prison, one of California's oldest correctional facilities. Founded in 1975 by retired correctional officers, the museum is housed in the former warden's residence, offering a unique atmosphere as you step back in time. The museum's exhibits showcase a range of artifacts, including confiscated weapons, inmate-crafted artwork, and personal letters. One of the most popular exhibits is dedicated to Johnny Cash's legendary 1968 performance at Folsom Prison, with photographs, concert footage, and memorabilia. While Cash himself was never an inmate, his music, especially "Folsom Prison Blues," immortalized the prison in popular culture. Beyond the Johnny Cash exhibit, the museum delves into the darker aspects of prison life. Displays of confiscated weapons and letters detailing escape attempts offer a chilling reminder of the violence and desperation within the prison walls. You'll also find inmate artwork, including intricate carvings and models made from toothpicks, showcasing the creativity and ingenuity of inmates despite their harsh conditions. Folsom Prison has a long and storied history. Opened in 1880, it was the first prison in the United States to have electricity. Between 1895 and 1937, 97 prisoners were hanged at Folsom. The museum also pays tribute to the correctional officers who dedicated their lives to working at Folsom Prison.

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