MOUNT HOLLY, NJ – The Halloween season is officially here. Summer is over and now it’s time to get your spooky game on.
If you’re in the mood for some history, mystery, or just plain spooky vibes, the Historic Burlington County Prison Museum in Mt. Holly, NJ, has something for everyone. It’s a one-of-a-kind destination that effortlessly merges history with a dash of the paranormal.
Whether you’re into architecture, law, or even the occasional ghost story, this old prison has it all. The building itself is an architectural gem dating back to 1811, giving visitors a glimpse into the way prisons were designed long before modern facilities came into existence. And for the criminal law buffs, it’s a treasure trove of old cases and stories of inmates long gone—though perhaps not all of them left willingly.
For those fascinated by the macabre, this place is packed with eerie tales and oddities that might just make you rethink what goes bump in the night. It’s perfect for those who can’t get enough of true crime or paranormal podcasts.
The museum also takes pride in highlighting local and national history, with exhibits that touch on penology, sociology, and the art of surviving behind bars in the early 1800s. Plus, the preserved graffiti from former prisoners? It’s a haunting reminder of those who once lived behind these walls.
If you’re planning a visit, the museum is open from Thursday through Sunday, but it’s worth noting that they close for holidays and the day after Thanksgiving. You can pop in for a self-guided tour and take your sweet time roaming through the old cells, learning about the prison’s storied past. If you’re looking for more in-depth info (and some professional narration), they’ve got a fantastic audio tour for just $3, which runs about an hour. There’s also the option to arrange a personal guided tour—just make sure to give them 48 hours’ notice, so they can set everything up.
Located right at the corner of High and Grant Streets, the museum is easy to find. Punch 128 High Street, Mt. Holly, NJ, into your GPS, and you’re good to go.
Now, if a regular tour isn’t thrilling enough, the escape game they offer might be more your style. This interactive experience lets you channel your inner safecracker, mimicking the breakout of a real-life prisoner from 1933. You’ll be handed a case of clues and have to figure out the combination that will lead to your escape. It’s a race against time as you and your team (up to four people) work together to solve the puzzles scattered throughout the jail.
At $10 a case, it’s a steal for a unique, adrenaline-pumping adventure. But heads up—you’ll want to reserve your spot, because this is one game that fills up fast.
Before you leave, don’t forget to check out the gift shop! They’ve got all the goodies—everything from tees and hoodies to mugs, keyrings, and hats, all with the jail’s iconic logo. For the history nerds, they even sell pamphlets with stories about notorious local murder cases and trials that you won’t find anywhere else.
The museum recently underwent some major repairs, so the building is looking better than ever. New roof, fresh gutters, and a spruced-up exterior mean it’s ready for even more visitors. Plus, the graffiti inside is now preserved for everyone to see. And did we mention the audio tour is available in Spanish now?
Lastly, if you’re feeling up for it, they’re always on the lookout for volunteers to help give tours. It’s easier than you might think and promises to be a fun way to connect with history—and maybe even some ghosts.