You Can Tour the Ohio Prison Where ‘Shawshank Redemption’ Was Filmed
Steve Hayden loves the movie The Shawshank Redemption. His wife Sandy says it's one of his all-time favorite films. Honestly, I am right there with them. The movie, which was based on the 1982 Stephen King novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, was released in 1994 to widespread critical acclaim. It earned seven Academy Award nominations and, for many, is one of the best prison movies in cinematic history.
Because of Steve's love for the movie, the Owensboro, KY couple recently paid a visit to the place it was filmed- the Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio. That facility was closed back in 1990 following a United States Federal Court ruling. Today, it's open to all kinds of tourists- from historians, to ghost hunters and fans of the paranormal, to fans of The Shawsank Redemption like Steve.
The Haydens took some incredible photos from inside the facility. They're remarkable and really transport you back to the film and its setting.
Sandy said, "It boggled my mind how many cells there were. They were stacked six cells high."
Sandy added, "I couldn't picture 5000 men in there."
The Ohio State Reformatory is currently open to tourists 7 days a week. Hours are 11am-4pm, with extended weekend hours from 10am-4pm.
There are self-guided and guided tours available.
Self-guided tour tickets are $25 per person. Guided tour tickets are $35 per person. There are discounts available for college students, military and senior citizens.
For more information and to book your tickets, CLICK HERE!
LOOK: TV Locations in Every State
More From My WJLT 105.3
