Jackson Historic Prison Tours

Do time at Michigan's First State Prison, once the largest in the world. Begin downtown at the historic Michigan Theatre where, through an interactive program, live presenters share fascinating prison history from horrid punishments to hilarious amusements, riots to reforms. Then, visit the old prison and experience more tales about colorful characters, crimes, and corruption, while walking through halls echoing with the sound of thousands of inmates past. Tour includes lunch.

Visit the Old Prison, now Armory Arts Village, a resident artists’ community, for a tour “From Historic Prison to Artistic Vision.” Experience more tales of this intriguing prison history while visiting the old solitary area, viewing murals depicting the unique prison history and painted by two resident muralists. Enter the brick, mortar, and stone Grand Gallery with its windows still lined by prison bars and built entirely by prison labor. Meet an artist in a studio formerly a cellblock, and see an apartment, once 36 cells. You will definitely hear the echoes of thousands of inmates past. When done, browse in the Grand Gallery to purchase souvenirs of your prison tour and arts, crafts, and jewelry from the resident artists.