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Ohio State Reformatory

100 Reformatory Rd · Mansfield, OH

Why you should go…

Built between 1886 and 1910 and closed as a working prison in 1990, this Gothic and Victorian style reformatory in Mansfield is preserved as a museum by the Mansfield Reformatory Preservation Society. Self-guided and guided history tours move through the cell blocks and warden's quarters. The site is widely known as the primary filming location for The Shawshank Redemption.

  • #former prison
  • #history
  • #shawshank redemption
  • #tours
  • #haunted

Good to know

General museums guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Check the special exhibition separately

    Touring shows usually carry their own ticket and their own opening hours, listed apart from general admission.

  • Look for the free window

    Many museums run community days, member evenings, or discounted late openings. It is worth a look before you pay full price.

  • Travel light through the door

    Large bags and backpacks often have to go to a coat check, and lines for it move slowly at opening.

  • Weekday mornings beat weekend afternoons

    School groups clear out by early afternoon midweek, while weekends stay busy from late morning on.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Ohio State Reformatory, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Sightseeing
    Outdoor Adventure

    Loudonville, Ohio

    Free

    Gateway to Ohio's Mohican Country, known for river canoeing, camping, and wooded gorge scenery.

    18 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Holmes County

    Free

    The heart of Ohio's Amish Country, spanning Berlin, Millersburg, Charm, and Walnut Creek.

    33 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Stay
    Local Gem

    Guggisberg Swiss Inn

    $50+

    A country inn in Ohio's Amish Country with an on-site winery and horseback riding stable.

    35 mi awaySwitch it up: Stay

  • Museums
    History Buff

    Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center

    Under $25

    Home to Behalt, a 265-foot cyclorama mural depicting the history of the Amish and Mennonite people.

    41 mi awayMore like this

  • Museums
    History Buff

    Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum

    Under $25

    A working 18-stall roundhouse housing the world's largest private collection of steam locomotives.

    49 mi awayMore like this

  • Museums
    Quirky Fun

    Erb's Coleman Museum

    Under $25

    A private two-story collection of vintage Coleman lanterns, stoves and camping gear.

    49 mi awayMore like this