Historic Washington State Park may just have one of the most unique lodgings in all of Arkansas. Surround yourself with history, cozy amenities, and a stay so nice it ought to be criminal! The state park's Jailhouse B&B is a refreshing yet surprising place to spend the weekend. Not only is the B&B an authentic prison, it's also haunted! Let's start the booking process and do our time at the Jailhouse B&B.
Time stands still at the Historic Washington State Park, one of Arkansas' most beloved pieces of experienceable history.
The state park showcases the town of Washington, a once vital stop along the Southwestern Trail to Texas. During the 1800s, the town drew the likes of James Bowie, Sam Houston, and even Davy Crockett! Today the state park brings history buffs and Arkansas nature lovers.
The state park immediately transports visitors into the 19th century community of Washington, AR.
With the nearly fifty stops to make around the park, Historic Washington contains the largest collection of 19th-century buildings in the state. The majority of the staff are dressed to fit the period and offer numerous reenactments as well as demonstrations.
The park also draws visitors in the springtime with the annual Jonquil Festival.
This flower-powered festival celebrates the return of spring with a host of craft vendors, activities, and food. The festival coincides with the peak bloom of thousands of jonquil flowers that are planted around the state park. However, springtime isn't the only time to plan a trip to ol' Historic Washington.
One of the buildings that's open for overnight exploration and relaxation is the Jailhouse B&B.
The structure originally began as a modest four-cell jail in 1873. Since then it has been renovated into a welcoming two-story bed and breakfast.
This is actually the second time the jail has been open for non-offending guests. The Jailhouse B&B was also in service between 1982 and 2010.
No cold jail cell here! The eight rooms at the B&B are delightfully cozy.
This jail that once held 17 inmates in the early 1920s can now accommodate eight couples looking for a getaway. The rooms all feature private bathrooms, WiFi, and TV. Guests can also enjoy a continental breakfast included with their stay.
The B&B still has plenty echoes of the past, including a ghost!
Remnants of the original jail still remain, like the structure seen here. The concrete pillar in the dining room and two of the private rooms on the second floor displays the etched names of convicts (written by the convicts themselves)! Allegedly a ghost also has a permanent residency at the jail - a Mr. Isaac Newton Evans. The inmate committed suicide in December of 1922 but has been seen by staff and guests throughout recent years.
You'll undoubtedly want to do your time at the Jailhouse B&B!
You can go through the booking process by heading to the Arkansas State Park's website. Bail (otherwise just known as the typical rates) at the Jailhouse B&B are $110/night.
Who would you do your time with at the Jailhouse B&B? Tag your cell mates in the comments below!
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