Historic Prison Tours for Groups with Jackson Journeys
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for individuals with basic mobility; some walking and standing required
Overview
Step inside Michigan’s first State Prison with Jackson Journeys Historic Prison Tours. Guided by passionate storytellers, this large-group experience unveils a powerful narrative of incarceration history just outside Detroit.
Large Group / Charter Tour
For all ages! • 2 Hours • For groups of 25+ • Reserve tour time here
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating journey through Michigan's first State Prison, guided by enthusiastic storytellers. Explore the historic site, including solitary confinement and the original cell block, while uncovering the nation's punishment history. Customize your experience with lunch and additional stops, and capture memories with local crafts from the gift shop.
Reserve your spot today! We will customize the tour to fit your needs from a two hour stop to a two day overnight, we can help your guests get the best of Historic Jackson.
Duration
2 Hours
About
Travel back in time through the stories of Michigan’s first State Prison as related to you through the friendly and enthusiastic guides. Visit this historic site and learn what every American should know about the history of punishment in this country. See solitary, the historic prison walls and the first permanent cell block in Michigan and see how they relate to the infamous people that inhabited it. Bring your camera and be ready for a good time on this tour. There is a gift shop for souvenirs and crafts made by local artists and craftsmen.
We are happy to arrange lunch and additional stops depending on your group's interests!
More info
Please estimate how many guests will be attending. Your $100 deposit payment will hold in the date. Please cancel within 30 days prior to keep the $100 deposit. Any additional guests or guests who will no longer attend will be added or subtracted based on day-on attendance.
We will be in contact to help customize any lunch or additional stops your tour would like to see in Jackson. Tour add-ons and lunch will be an additional charge.
Adventure Tips
Book Early for Groups
Reserve your spot well in advance, especially for groups over 25, to secure preferred dates and times.
Bring Your Camera
The original cell blocks and solitary confinement spaces offer striking photo opportunities. Flash photography may be restricted, so plan accordingly.
Accessibility Considerations
Check in advance if your group requires accessibility accommodations, as some historic areas have uneven surfaces and narrow passageways.
Customize Your Experience
Enhance your group tour by adding lunch or local artisan stops to make the day a full cultural outing.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common city birds like red-winged blackbirds
- Squirrels frequenting the urban green spaces around Jackson
History
Michigan’s first State Prison opened in 1839 and played a significant role in shaping penal practices across the Midwest.
Conservation
Jackson Journeys supports preservation of the site through sustainable tourism practices, helping maintain the prison's historic fabric for future generations.
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Adventure Hotspots in Detroit
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Sturdy shoes help navigate uneven historic grounds and cobblestone walkways safely.
Weather-Appropriate Outerwear
Layered clothing protects against variable temperatures during tours around the historic site.
spring|fall|winter specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the unique architecture and intriguing interiors of Michigan’s first State Prison.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the tour, especially if adding outdoor lunch stops on warm days.
summer specific