Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do you still do tours when it is raining?
A: Yes.

Q: Do you have a roof?
A: Yes.

Q: Are the tours guided?
A: Guided Tours are provided on Sundays and by scheduling a group tour of 20 or more during the week. Other tour options include a self-guided walking tour and the self-guided audio tour, Monday thru Saturday.

Q: Do you take credit cards?
A: Yes, we accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover.

Q: Are there a lot of stairs on the tour?
A: Yes. On the Self-guided route, patrons can walk at their own pace and rest when needed.

Q: Are the tours handicap accessible?
A: No. There are several flights of stairs on the tour routes. Please call the office to schedule a special tour of the ground level, which included the Cellblocks, Solitary Confinement, Bullpen, Mini Bullpen, and Central Guard Room.

Q: Can you take pictures or video?
A: Snapshots can be taken during your tour. No photographs may be used for personal profit. Photographs of the working correctional facility directly behind the Ohio State Reformatory are STRICTLY PROHIBITED!

Q: Are there still inmates incarcerated there?
A: No.

Q: Are kids allowed on the tour?
A: The tours are not recommended for children under 7 years old or for pregnant women due to the amounts of lead-based paint in the building.

Q: Do I have to make a reservation or call ahead for tickets to the historic tours?
A: No pre-sale tickets or reservations necessary.

Q: If your tours have concluded for the season, can you still come out and walk around the prison?
A: No. The Reformatory is located on a gated property. If you are visiting during the off-season, please feel free drive the Shawshank Trail.