This Missouri Prison Is One of America’s Most Haunted

The second you walk into the Missouri State Penitentiary, you can feel the chills left behind by the prisoners who once called this cold place home. Even the first words you see are chilling: “Choose Your Fate.”

Famous Inmates of Missouri State Penitentiary

At one time, this massive brick building was the oldest operating prison west of the Mississippi River. The thick brick walls were home to some of the nation’s worst and most notorious criminals, including Sonny Liston and James Earl Ray.

Still standing today on 47 acres in Jefferson City, the Missouri State Penitentiary now serves as one of the oldest attractions in the state, offering tours and ghost hunts. The prison operated for 168 years before being decommissioned in 2004.

Tour Options: History Walks and Ghost Hunts

Today, visitors can tour the former prison, if they dare. It’s known to be one of the most haunted places in Missouri. You can choose between a two-hour history tour (which is totally in my wheelhouse) or a two-hour ghost tour (which is definitely not in my wheelhouse).

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Oh, if these walls could talk. I’m sure even during the history tour, you’ll feel as if you’re being followed or watched. I watched the Ghost Adventures episode and was completely freaked out. I can’t even imagine what it would be like to step inside in person.