Old Monterey Jail in Monterey | Atlas Obscura
This remarkably simple jail went over a century without an escape.

📜 The Old Monterey Jail, constructed in 1854, served as the City Jail until 1956.
🔍 No one ever escaped from its thick granite walls during its century of use.

Why Go

🏛️ Explore a historic jail that was escape-proof for over 100 years.
🚶‍♀️ See recreated scenes of prisoner conditions.
📜 Learn about notorious inmates and local history, including the Gold Rush era.
🖼️ Part of Colton Hall Museum, offering a broader historical experience.

Tips

💡 The jail is adjacent to Colton Hall Museum; consider visiting both.

Hours

🕒 Open Thursdays through Sundays, 10 am to 4 pm.

Last updated 7 days ago

We strive for accuracy, but errors may occur. Please verify key info.