Frequently Asked Questions

Unfortunately, we cannot make exceptions for the age requirement, even with a parent or guardian.

Yes, tours are still conducted when it is raining.

All tours of the Missouri State Penitentiary are guide-led. We do not conduct self-guided tours.

No. The inmates were transferred to the new Jefferson City Correctional Center when the Missouri State Penitentiary was decommissioned in September 2004.

We do not have any previous inmate records, as the State of Missouri preserves this information within the Missouri State Archives. You can contact the Missouri State Archives to inquire about a previous inmate.

The tour season runs from March through November each year (weather dependent). There are no tours during December, January or February.

While we do accept walk-ins, we highly recommend reservations in advance to ensure your spot on the tour. Once a tour is full, tickets can no longer be purchased.

Yes. There may be a short amount of time seated; however, guests will be standing for most of their tour. There is seating available in two of the three housing units (for history tours) and walking between buildings. Ghost tours have more stair climbing involved and standing (less seating).

We can make a reservation change based on availability. Call the Prison Tour Office at 573-632-3999 for further information.

There aren’t any physical tickets for the tour. After you register for the tour, you will receive an email confirmation. You are welcome to print the confirmation and bring it with you, but it is not required. The staff will have a list of everyone registered and will be able to verify your spot on the tour.

Yes, portions of the tour are outside. If it is raining, tour guides will adjust the time spent outside.

No. Due to age of the buildings, the tour is not entirely handicap accessible. Individuals can usually get along fine with walkers or canes; however, many of the door ways are too narrow for wheelchairs and there are several flights of stairs on the tour routes.

Everyone participating in a tour at Missouri State Penitentiary must sign a Waiver and Release of Liability. For guests under the age of 18, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver also. As of 2024, we have transitioned to digital waivers. Upon completion of booking your tour, you will receive a separate email with waiver instructions. If you or members of your party are unable to sign the waiver in advance, check-in can be done using our onsite IPad located at the main entrance.

Since there is no heat or air conditioning at the facility we recommend that guests dress for the weather. Additionally, we do not allow food or drink on the property, but we do sell bottled water in our Souvenir Shop.

We do allow you to take photographs while on the tour, but ask that you not videotape the tours.

On-street parking is provided at no charge on Lafayette Street or State Street.

Our Cancellation (for a refund) is a 48-hour prior notice, otherwise no refund will be issued but tour can be rescheduled.