A Glimpse at the Creepy Interior of the Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio

If you’re looking for things to do in Mansfield, Ohio, a tour through the historic Ohio State Reformatory is a must!

The imposing façade of the Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield does nothing to deter visitors from flocking to the site today.

 Next to Mid-Ohio Raceway, the prison is possibly the most visited attraction in Richland County.

Visitors have come from around the world and events like Inkcarceration, the Shawshank Hustle and Escape from Blood Prison draw record crowds throughout the year. 

During the rest of the year, tours are offered most days, with both self-guided and docent-led tours available.

I’ve been on both and while the self-guided tours allow you to explore the entire prison on your own and focus on what you find most fascinating.

But I suggest a guided tour for your first tour or rent a listening wand so you can learn as you go.

The latter allows you to learn about the history of the prison, the inmates, the warden, and the architecture, which is pretty fascinating.

I enjoyed learning the intriguing history of the property.

It was nearly demolished and then purchased for $1 (no, that is not a typo) and went on to become the filming site for the famed Shawshank Redemption.

The movie is based on the novella Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption by famed author, Stephen King.

You could say the movie saved the prison, as the filming crews showed up on the very day the wrecking ball was set to strike.

The movie has also boosted tourism in Mansfield, as fans descend on the area from across the country to view the prison and other filming locations along the Shawshank Trail.

The Ohio State Reformatory has been seen in music videos, Hollywood movies, and the much-talked-about, Ghost Hunters.

Those with an affinity to all things creepy may enjoy spending the night entering the dark cells, slowly making their way through the dark passageways in search of things that go bump in the night.

Me? I prefer to tour the prison by day, which may be creepy enough.

The prison boasts several exhibits, one that includes Old Sparky, the original electric chair in the state of Ohio.

Surprisingly, the contraption was made by a prisoner on death row.

I’m not sure that would pass as humane punishment these days.

You’ll also have a chance to learn more about the on-site filming of the Shawshank Redemption in the Shawshank Museum which opened during the 25th anniversary of the movie.

The prison also features the East Cell Block which is the world’s largest, free-standing, steel cell block, The Hole, where unruly prisoners were sent, and the Warden’s Quarters, where the warden lived with his family.

Friendly staff members are on hand to answer questions you have about the property.

Depending on who you speak to during your visit, you may hear a few tales of prisoner misconduct.

Or you may hear where they’ve glimpsed the Shadowman, a guard who was murdered by prisoners, who is said to roam the halls of solitary confinement.

The prison is a photographer’s dream so make sure you have plenty of space on your smartphone for photos or pack your DSLR.

Today visitors can tour just about every inch of the prison.

You can even step inside the prison cells! Just do everyone a favor and don’t slide the door closed behind you.

Most of the keys have been misplaced and you may have a bit of a lengthy stay as you wait for a locksmith to come to your rescue.

Did I mention the prison is creepy? Oh yeah, I think I did.

Have you been to the prison? Is this someplace you’d like to go?

Other Things to do in Mansfield, Ohio:

Experience a Piece of Hollywood along the Shawshank Trail in Mansfield, Ohio

15 Things to do with the Family at Malabar Farm State Park

FREE Mansfield Ohio Scavenger Hunt

Plan A Visit to Kingwood Center Gardens in Mansfield, Ohio

9 Reasons to Staycation in Mansfield, Ohio