Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary

Hours: Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary is a fascinating historical site in Tennessee, set in a beautiful mountain location. Visitors can explore the prison through self-guided tours, walking through the prison areas and viewing various artifacts. The setting is stunning and offers great scenery in all seasons, although the site closes during winter. The prison has a rich history, including being a place where notable inmates like James Earl Ray were incarcerated. The site also features a distillery where visitors can enjoy whiskey tastings, and a small restaurant called The Warden’s Table, serving good food. The RV park nearby provides level, concrete sites, easy check-in, and convenient access to the prison. There’s also a gift shop with great souvenirs. Some visitors wish they could have taken guided or paranormal tours, but even without them, the experience is enjoyable and educational. Overall, it’s an interesting and scenic place to visit, offering a mix of history, food, and whiskey tasting.

1. Petros, Tennessee