Where History Meets Hospitality
In the heart of Rockville, Indiana, sits a building that has stood for over a century—a place that once held some of the county’s most notorious criminals and now welcomes curious guests. The Old Jail Inn is exactly what its name suggests: a historic county jail transformed into a unique bed-and-breakfast experience. Here, you can spend the night in an authentic jail cell, complete with heavy steel doors, brick walls, and stories from a bygone era.
This unusual lodging option blends history, novelty, and comfort in a way that appeals to history buffs, adventurous travelers, and anyone looking for a stay they’ll never forget. Far from being just a gimmick, the Old Jail Inn preserves and shares the fascinating past of the building while offering modern amenities for a comfortable visit.
A Century of Stories
The building served as the Parke County Jail from the late 1800s until it was retired from official use in the late 20th century. During that time, it saw countless inmates pass through its barred doors. Some were held for minor infractions, while others awaited trial for serious crimes. The structure also included living quarters for the sheriff and their family, creating a unique dynamic between law enforcement and those they guarded.
Architectural Details
The jail retains much of its original architecture, including the thick brick walls, narrow hallways, and iron-barred doors. The main cell block, with its two-tier design, remains intact, giving visitors an authentic sense of what life behind bars once felt like. Even the windows are the original narrow, barred openings, built for security rather than views.
Sleeping Behind Bars—By Choice
Today, the Old Jail Inn offers guests the chance to book overnight stays in the former cells. While the basic layout of the cells remains the same, they’ve been cleaned, repainted, and equipped with basic bedding. Each cell has its own unique theme, ranging from playful to eerie, adding to the experience.
Themed Stays
Some rooms lean into the “prison” vibe, with minimal furnishings and stark décor, while others offer softer touches like cozy bedding, colorful walls, and historical photos. For those who want a more conventional experience, the inn also offers non-cell rooms in the former sheriff’s quarters.
More Than Just a Place to Sleep
Staying at the Old Jail Inn isn’t just about the novelty of sleeping in a cell—it’s about immersing yourself in the history of the building and the town. The owners provide guided tours that share stories of former inmates, notable events, and the daily routines of the jail in its operational years.
The Drunk Tank
One of the most popular stops is the “Drunk Tank,” a small, stark room once used to hold those arrested for public intoxication. Today, it’s preserved as a display, complete with tongue-in-cheek décor and props for photo opportunities.
Prime Location in Rockville
The Old Jail Inn sits right on the courthouse square in downtown Rockville, making it an ideal base for exploring the town’s shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks. It’s also a short drive from Parke County’s famous covered bridges, which draw visitors from across the country each fall during the Covered Bridge Festival.
Preserving the Past
The transformation from functioning jail to bed-and-breakfast was done with care to maintain the structure’s historical integrity. Original cell doors remain in place, the main layout is unchanged, and historic photos line the hallways. By repurposing the jail instead of demolishing it, the owners have ensured that an important piece of Parke County’s history will remain for future generations.
Community Involvement
The inn has become a local landmark and a source of pride for Rockville residents. It frequently participates in town events, offering tours during festivals and hosting open houses for curious locals who might not be interested in staying overnight but still want to see the inside of the historic building.
Events and Special Packages
The inn offers a variety of special packages to make each stay memorable. Couples can opt for romantic add-ons—yes, even in a jail cell—like flowers, chocolates, or a catered meal brought right to their room. Groups of friends often book multiple cells for birthday celebrations, bachelor or bachelorette parties, or simply for the fun of sharing a one-of-a-kind lodging experience.
Haunted Happenings
Given the building’s long and sometimes dark history, it’s no surprise that ghost stories swirl around the Old Jail Inn. Guests interested in the paranormal can join ghost tours or even rent out the space for private investigations. While the inn doesn’t make official claims about hauntings, many visitors report unexplained sounds, flickering lights, and the occasional mysterious shadow.
Nearby Attractions
Guests at the Old Jail Inn are within walking distance of Rockville’s charming shops and restaurants. The town is known for its antique stores, quaint cafés, and friendly atmosphere. Beyond the square, visitors can explore the covered bridges, scenic drives, and small-town festivals that Parke County is famous for.
Covered Bridge Festival
One of the largest events in the area, the Covered Bridge Festival draws thousands each October. Staying at the Old Jail Inn during the festival provides a unique way to experience the event, as the inn is right in the center of the action.
Planning Your Stay
Reservations can be made online, and it’s recommended to book early—especially during peak seasons like the Covered Bridge Festival. Prices vary depending on the room type and any special packages chosen. While the inn does retain some of its original jailhouse chill, modern heating and air conditioning ensure a comfortable stay year-round.
Who Should Stay Here?
The Old Jail Inn appeals to a wide range of guests: history enthusiasts who appreciate the preserved architecture, thrill-seekers intrigued by ghost stories, and travelers simply looking for something different from the usual hotel stay. Families with older children often enjoy the novelty, though the experience might not be suitable for very young kids.
A Stay You Won’t Forget
Spending the night at the Old Jail Inn is unlike any other lodging experience in Indiana. Whether you’re exploring its preserved cell blocks, swapping ghost stories, or just enjoying the novelty of locking yourself into a room for the night, you’ll leave with stories to tell for years to come. The blend of history, character, and community spirit makes this Rockville landmark a true one-of-a-kind destination.
It’s more than just a bed for the night—it’s a direct connection to the past, wrapped in an experience that’s equal parts educational, entertaining, and unforgettable.
