10/25/2026
There's a place tucked away in the mountains of East Tennessee where one of the state's most notorious prisons has been transformed into one of its most unusual tourist destinations, complete with historic prison tours, a restaurant, and a distillery. 🇺🇸
Located in Petros, Tennessee, Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary opened in 1896 and operated for more than a century before closing in 2009. For generations, its towering stone walls housed some of Tennessee's most dangerous criminals, including James Earl Ray, the man convicted of assassinating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Surrounded by rugged mountains in Morgan County, Brushy Mountain was once considered one of the toughest prisons in the state. Its isolated location, imposing walls, and strict security made it a place few inmates ever wanted to experience.
But today, those same prison gates welcome visitors from across the country.
The historic penitentiary has been preserved and reopened as an attraction where guests can explore old cellblocks, walk through the prison yard, and learn about the fascinating and sometimes troubling history behind its walls.
And in a surprising twist, visitors can also enjoy a meal at the Warden's Table restaurant or explore Brushy Mountain Distillery, which celebrates East Tennessee's moonshining traditions. 🍔🥃
What was once a place people desperately wanted to escape has become somewhere travelers actually make special trips to visit.
Beyond the unusual attractions, Brushy Mountain represents something important for Tennessee: preserving historic places instead of allowing them to disappear. Its transformation has also brought renewed attention and tourism to the small mountain community of Petros.
It's a remarkable example of how a place with a difficult past can find a new purpose while keeping its history alive.
Have you ever visited Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary in Petros, Tennessee? Would you take a tour inside those historic prison walls? We'd love to hear your thoughts! ⛰️🇺🇸
