Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary
Step into history at Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary, a former maximum-security prison offering tours, stunning mountain views, and local moonshine...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into history at Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary, a former maximum-security prison offering tours, stunning mountain views, and local moonshine.
"A neat adventure with lots of history and gorgeous mountain views!"
Guided Tour Recommended
Opt for a guided tour led by former guards for captivating stories and historical insights.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cell Blocks
Main Prison Area
Wander through the historic cell blocks, imagining life behind bars. Some cells feature inmate art and writings.
The Hole
Solitary Confinement Area
Experience the chilling atmosphere of the solitary confinement area, known as 'The Hole'. A truly eerie part of the prison.
Mountain Views
Exterior Grounds
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Tennessee mountains. A stark contrast to the prison's interior.
Moonshine Distillery & Tasting
On-site
Sample award-winning moonshine and vodka crafted on-site. A unique and tasty souvenir from your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Embrace the History and Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary - 2020 Petros TN USA
Guided Tour Recommended
Opt for a guided tour led by former guards for captivating stories and historical insights.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
The now-closed Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary in east Tennessee. Once housed MLK's murderer James Earl Ray. The only prison in the world with 3 walls. A mountain serves as the 4th wall.
Brushy Mtn State Penitentiary Solitary confinement exercise yard. This prison is notable for the escape of James Earl Ray (MLKJ assassin)
Explore the Restaurant
Don't miss The Warden's Table for delicious BBQ and local specialties. :knifeforkplate:
Capture the History
Bring your camera! The architecture and mountain views are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Guided Tour Recommended
Opt for a guided tour led by former guards for captivating stories and historical insights.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Explore the Restaurant
Don't miss The Warden's Table for delicious BBQ and local specialties. :knifeforkplate:
Capture the History
Bring your camera! The architecture and mountain views are incredibly photogenic. :camerawithflash:
Check for Special Events
Look out for paranormal tours or other unique events that add an extra layer to your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary for its rich history, engaging tours led by knowledgeable former guards, and the stunning mountain scenery. The on-site restaurant and moonshine distillery are also frequently highlighted as enjoyable additions to the experience. While the historical nature of the site can be somber, the overall sentiment is one of a well-preserved and fascinating destination.
"This is a neat adventure with lots of history. My guided tour was led by a family member of the Brushy Mountain family. The mountain views are gorgeous. The gift shop was also a great stop. Their moonshine tasting was really good. I did not eat at the restaurant, however their food looked delicious and the atmosphere was very homey. I will most certainly be visiting again in the future!!"
Jacob Christmas
"We took the public guided tour with a former guard at the prison. He was friendly and knowledgeable about the jail and different inmates that stayed there in his care. His speeches were family friendly and interesting. After the 2.5 hour tour was completed, we were able to go to the wardens table for lunch, which was delicious. After lunch we were able to go back and roam the grounds armed with the information our guide had imparted."
Malinda McDowell
"This was a great day trip to take. My family took the self guided tour and had a great time. We looked through all the cell blocks (some had art and writings). We enjoyed doing this at our own pace and took tons of pictures. The drive down was quite curvy but absolutely stunning views of Tennessee! I loved the museum and the information that was posted around the whole facility explaining different areas and providing stories from both guards and prisoners. You can feel the history in this place. We also stopped at the restaurant/ distillery located in the same general area. The brisket sandwich I got was so good and all the sandwiches were great portions."
Thomas Allen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary is located in Petros, Tennessee. The drive itself offers stunning mountain views, though some roads can be curvy. Many visitors report the scenic drive as part of the experience.
Yes, ample parking is available on-site for visitors. You can typically park close to the main entrance and gift shop area.
Public transportation options are very limited in this rural area. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle or arrange for private transportation to reach the penitentiary.
The drive to Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary is often described as scenic, with beautiful mountain vistas. Be prepared for winding roads as you ascend the mountain.
It's a bit of a drive from major cities like Nashville or Knoxville, making it a dedicated day trip. Plan for at least a 1.5-2 hour drive from Knoxville.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the type of tour (guided vs. self-guided) and any special events. It's best to check the official Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary website for the most current pricing and to book tickets in advance.
While not always mandatory, booking your tickets for Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary in advance is highly recommended, especially for guided tours, to secure your spot and preferred time.
Operating hours can vary seasonally and by day of the week. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours before planning your visit to Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary.
Yes, Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary typically offers both guided tours, often led by former guards, and self-guided tours, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
It's possible to purchase tickets at the door, but availability may be limited, especially for guided tours. Booking ahead is the safest bet to guarantee entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can take guided or self-guided tours of the historic prison, explore cell blocks, learn about famous inmates, visit the museum, enjoy the mountain views, and sample moonshine at the on-site distillery.
A guided tour typically lasts around 2.5 hours, while a self-guided tour allows you to spend as much time as you like exploring the grounds and exhibits.
The tours are generally family-friendly, with former guards often sharing stories in an appropriate manner. However, the subject matter is about a prison, so parental discretion is advised.
Yes, Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary is known for offering paranormal tours and private investigation opportunities, appealing to those interested in the supernatural.
Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary, operational from 1896 to 2009, has a rich and often grim history, housing notorious inmates and witnessing significant events in correctional history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Warden's Table restaurant is located on-site, offering delicious BBQ and other meals. Many visitors praise the food and portions.
The Warden's Table specializes in barbecue, with popular items including brisket sandwiches and flavorful sides. They also offer other hearty meals.
Absolutely! You can enjoy a moonshine tasting at the on-site distillery, and The Warden's Table offers a variety of beverages with your meal.
While the focus is on BBQ, it's always a good idea to check the current menu or ask staff about potential vegetarian or vegan options available at The Warden's Table.
Reviews suggest the food is reasonably priced for the quality and portion sizes, offering good value for a tourist attraction.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary for personal use. However, always be respectful of the historical nature of the site and any ongoing tours.
The cell blocks, the exterior architecture against the mountain backdrop, and the solitary confinement 'Hole' offer dramatic photographic opportunities. The scenic drive also provides great shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and prisons due to privacy and security concerns. It's best to check the official policy before attempting to fly a drone.
While personal photography is usually permitted, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Avoid intrusive flash photography in sensitive areas.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for the interior shots. A wide-angle lens can help capture the scale of the cell blocks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to gauge your children's maturity level regarding discussions of crime and prison life. The self-guided tour allows families to move at their own pace, which can be beneficial for younger children who may have shorter attention spans. The on-site restaurant, The Warden's Table, offers a casual dining experience with kid-friendly options, making it easy to refuel after exploring.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
These tours delve into the darker aspects of the penitentiary's past, sharing chilling stories and alleged encounters. Even during regular daytime tours, guides may share anecdotes that hint at the supernatural. The atmosphere within the old cell blocks, especially areas like 'The Hole,' is often described as particularly eerie, making it a prime location for those seeking a spooky experience.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Plan for at least half a day to fully explore the penitentiary, whether you choose a guided or self-guided tour. The location is somewhat remote, so it’s best to dedicate a significant portion of your day to this visit. The combination of history, unique local products, and beautiful scenery makes it a memorable stop on any road trip through the region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary
Over its century of operation, Brushy Mountain became known for its harsh conditions and for housing infamous inmates. The prison's history is intertwined with stories of riots, attempted escapes, and the daily lives of both prisoners and the correctional officers who worked there. The closure of the penitentiary in 2009 marked the end of an era, but its legacy continues to draw visitors interested in its storied past.
Today, Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to step back in time. Through guided and self-guided tours, the site aims to educate the public about its complex history, the lives of its inmates, and the evolution of the penal system. The preservation of the site allows for a tangible connection to this significant piece of American history.
Famous Inmates and Their Stories
Beyond James Earl Ray, the penitentiary housed many other individuals who made headlines for their crimes. Learning about these brushy mountain inmates provides a stark look into the criminal justice system and the individuals who were incarcerated. Former guards often share anecdotes about these figures, offering personal perspectives that bring the history to life. The stories highlight the human element behind the prison walls, detailing struggles, survival, and the impact of incarceration.
Exploring the exhibits and listening to the guides at Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary offers a chance to understand the context of these famous inmates' lives and crimes. It’s a reminder of the complex social issues that contributed to their presence within the prison system. The brushy mountain prison famous inmates are a key draw for many visitors seeking to connect with a darker, yet significant, chapter of history.
The Warden's Table Restaurant and Distillery
Adjacent to the restaurant is the Brushy Mountain Distillery, where visitors can sample and purchase award-winning moonshine and vodka. This unique offering adds another dimension to the visitor experience, allowing guests to taste a piece of Appalachian tradition. The distillery's products are a popular souvenir, providing a tangible connection to the region's heritage.
Together, the restaurant and distillery create a complete destination experience at Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary. It transforms a visit focused on history into an outing that includes dining and local craft beverages, making it a well-rounded day trip for many. The combination of historical exploration and local flavor is a key reason for repeat visits.
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