Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary, Petros

About Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary

Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary's audio-visual tour immerses visitors in 25 stations across Tennessee's most notorious maximum-security prison, with former inmates, guards, and employees narrating the lived experience through personal audio guides. Visitors move through cell blocks at their own pace, hearing firsthand accounts from those who were imprisoned, enforced rules, and worked at the facility. The venue also offers paranormal investigation tours for those interested in the prison's darker history. On-site dining includes the Warden's Table restaurant serving fresh southern cuisine daily, and Parolee's combines a beer cave, restaurant, and gift shop outside the front gates. The Coal House Event Space, one of the oldest buildings constructed by prisoners, hosts private events from weddings to corporate meetings. Located in Petros, Tennessee, near Frozen Head State Park, the penitentiary charges admission with tickets sold online through tourbrushy.com. Children under 6 receive free admission, according to the venue's website.