15 Spine-Chilling Destinations Every Stephen King Fan Must Visit

5. The Ohio State Reformatory – Mansfield, Ohio

One of the most visually striking and historically significant locations used in a Stephen King adaptation is the Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio—the real-life prison that stood in for Shawshank Penitentiary in The Shawshank Redemption. With its imposing Gothic Revival architecture, long, dark corridors, and massive, iron-barred cells, this now-defunct prison provided an authentic and haunting backdrop for one of the most beloved films of all time. Built in 1896, the reformatory operated for nearly a century before closing in 1990 due to overcrowding and inhumane conditions. Today, visitors can take guided tours through the decaying halls, explore the warden’s office where Warden Norton met his dramatic end, and even stand inside Andy Dufresne’s escape tunnel—which was recreated on set, but closely resembles the real-life layout of the prison. For those seeking a more spine-chilling experience, ghost tours and paranormal investigations are also available, as the prison is rumored to be haunted. Whether you’re a fan of King’s work or just fascinated by historic architecture, this eerie yet cinematic location is a must-visit for movie buffs and history enthusiasts alike. Featured In: The Shawshank Redemption (1994 film)