Explore the Haunting History of Missouri State Penitentiary
Discover the chilling history of the Missouri State Penitentiary, a haunting tourist attraction that brings the past to life through guided tours.
Step into the eerie world of the Missouri State Penitentiary, a historical site that once housed notorious criminals. This guided tour offers a glimpse into the prison's dark past and the stories of its infamous inmates. Ideal for history buffs and thrill-seekers alike, expect to be captivated by the architecture and the tales that echo through its walls.
A brief summary to Missouri State Penitentiary
- 115 Lafayette St, Jefferson City, Missouri, 65101, US
- +1866-998-6998
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons to secure your preferred time.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking through various sections of the penitentiary.
- Bring a camera; the unique architecture and haunting atmosphere provide excellent photo opportunities.
- Consider joining a night tour for a more eerie experience, as the prison is known for its ghost stories.
- Check the weather before your visit, as some tours include outdoor areas that may be affected by rain or snow.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from central Ozarks, take US-65 N from Ozark. Continue on US-65 N for approximately 30 miles until you reach the interchange for I-44 E. Merge onto I-44 E and continue for about 60 miles. Take exit 153B for US-63 N toward Jefferson City. Follow US-63 N for about 25 miles until you reach the exit for MO-50 W toward Jefferson City. Merge onto MO-50 W and continue for about 3 miles. Then take the exit toward US-54 W. Continue on US-54 W for about 5 miles and take the exit onto Lafayette St. Follow Lafayette St for approximately 1 mile, and you will arrive at the Missouri State Penitentiary located at 115 Lafayette St, Jefferson City, MO 65101.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Missouri State Penitentiary using public transportation, first locate the nearest Greyhound bus station in Ozarks. Purchase a ticket to Jefferson City, which typically costs around $30-$50. Once you arrive in Jefferson City, you can take the local Jefferson City Public Transit bus (Route 1) toward the downtown area. Get off the bus at the stop nearest to Lafayette St. From there, it is a short 10-minute walk to the penitentiary, located at 115 Lafayette St. Make sure to check the local transit schedules ahead of time to ensure timely connections.
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Taxi/Ride-sharing
For a more direct and potentially quicker option, consider using a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Simply input your destination as '115 Lafayette St, Jefferson City, MO 65101' in the app. The cost for this ride will vary depending on your starting location in Ozarks, but expect to pay anywhere from $40 to $80 for the trip. This option is convenient as it allows you to be dropped off right at the entrance of the Missouri State Penitentiary.
