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Thanks to Experience Jackson for arranging complimentary admission to Cell Block 7 and Jackson Historic Prison Tours (all thoughts and opinions expressed below are my own). All images in this article were photographed with permission from the Michigan Department of Corrections. |
Like, ever.
I know that’s a ridiculous statement. Who in their right mind would voluntarily choose to be locked up? And as your run-of-the-mill, overly-cautious girl who isn’t typically mixed up in illegal situations, why on earth would I even worry about it?


When our group arrived at the museum (I visited in conjunction with Jackson Historic Prison Tours), I was excited but a little nervous about going inside. Yes, I knew Cell Block 7 was safe (there are no prisoners inside), but the museum is located on the grounds of an active prison! While visitors go nowhere near current inmates (and vise-versa), the atmosphere definitely reflects the seriousness of prison culture (you won’t find any cutesy gimmicks here). There’s also a very strict no-cameras-or-cell-phones policy* in place, so if you plan on visiting, make sure to leave your devices at home or locked in your car.



We stepped through one last set of doors, and there it was. Stretched out in front of us, Cell Block 7 was amazing and gigantic and terrifying all at once. Five floors of vacant prison cells were an oddly-chilling sight to behold, and I couldn’t imagine what it would have been like walking into this room back when it was full of people. The thought was both intimidating and incredible.






5 Things To Keep In Mind For Your Visit To Cell Block 7
1.) Cell Block 7 is a self-guided experience, and there are informational signs and staffers floating around to answer any questions you might have. However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth historical account, consider booking a tour with Jackson Historic Prison Tours (which also includes group tours of the old state prison and lunch at a nearby Jackson restaurant). Click here to learn more.2.) DO NOT bring your phone or camera. Seriously, just don’t do it. If you’re caught, you could end up in hot water and may have to forfeit your device. It’s much easier to just leave all electronics at home or locked in your car trunk.
3.) Set aside 1-2 hours for your visit. This will give you plenty of time to walk around, study exhibit signs, and ask questions before moving on to your next appointment of the day.
4.) Consider leaving younger children with a sitter. Children of all ages are welcome at Cell Block 7 (under 18 must be accompanied by an adult), but the atmosphere and stories you'll hear may not always be “rated G” (or PG). Upper levels of Cell Block 7 are also limited to kids 13 and older (the railings were not designed with children in mind). My advice: leave little kids with a sitter and consider bringing teens/older kids only.
5.) You can buy prisoner-made artwork. It’s true! The museum store offers unique pieces like cards, art prints, and my personal favorite—bird houses made from license plates.

Cell Block 7 Prison Museum Hours & Ticket Prices
Monday – Tuesday: Large tour groups by appointment onlyWednesday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (last ticket sold at 4:00 pm)
Adults: $15 // Children 13-17: $8 // Children 12 & Under: Free
Seniors, Military, Police, Corrections Employees, & Ella Sharp Museum Members: $10
Group Discount Rates Available
Think you can handle the truth behind prison life? Let me know in the comments what you’d like to see first-hand at Cell Block 7!

*Note: I received media credentials that allowed me to take photos during my visit to Cell Block 7 for the express purpose of publishing written content about the museum. All photographs in this post have been approved by the Michigan Department of Corrections.
Want to learn more about Jackson, Michigan? CLICK HERE to check out my latest Pure Michigan article: Six Things You Didn’t Know About Jackson