Old Montana Prison & Auto Museum Industrial Tour — Deer Lodge, Montana

Discover the Old Montana Prison & Auto Museum Industrial Tour in Montana

Located in Deer Lodge, Montana, the Old Montana Prison & Auto Museum Industrial Tour offers visitors a unique combination of correctional history and industrial-era craftsmanship. This self-guided industrial heritage experience allows guests to explore the historic Montana State Prison complex alongside an extensive automobile and transportation museum collection.

Visitors walk through original prison cellblocks, workshops, and yards, then transition into large exhibit halls filled with classic cars, engines, tools, and industrial artifacts that showcase America’s manufacturing and automotive evolution.

Why it’s special: Few destinations combine preserved prison infrastructure with one of the Northwest’s largest classic car and industrial collections—offering a powerful look at labor, craftsmanship, and mechanical innovation in one historic location.

History & Story of Old Montana Prison & Auto Museum

The Old Montana Prison operated from 1871 until 1979 and housed thousands of inmates over more than a century. During its operation, prisoners worked in various trades, including carpentry, metalwork, and facility maintenance—making it a site deeply connected to industrial labor.

After closing, the complex was preserved and transformed into a museum. Adjacent collections expanded to include the Montana Auto Museum, displaying vintage vehicles, engines, and memorabilia that highlight the growth of American manufacturing and transportation throughout the 20th century.

What You’ll See & Do on the Old Montana Prison & Auto Museum Industrial Tour

• Walk through original prison cellblocks and maximum-security areas
• Explore historic workshops and inmate labor spaces
• View guard towers and prison yards
• Discover exhibits detailing prison industry and craftsmanship
• Tour expansive galleries filled with vintage automobiles
• See antique engines, transportation memorabilia, and industrial equipment

Hands-On Elements: Primarily observational; some interactive museum displays available.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography permitted throughout most public areas.

Souvenirs & Extras: Gift shop featuring books, memorabilia, and Montana-themed souvenirs.

Pricing of the Old Montana Prison & Auto Museum Industrial Tour

Adult price: $15 per adult

Discounted rates available for seniors, children, and groups.

Visiting information for Old Montana Prison & Auto Museum Industrial Tour

Duration: Approximately 1.5–2.5 hours depending on pace

Age limits: All ages welcome; some exhibits may be intense for younger visitors

Accessibility: Partial accessibility; some historic areas involve stairs and uneven surfaces

Working Hours: Monday–Sunday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Self-guided tours allow visitors to explore at their own pace during regular hours.

Nearby attractions to Old Montana Prison & Auto Museum Industrial Tour

• Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site
• Powell County Museum
• Clark Fork River access areas

FAQs About Visiting the Old Montana Prison & Auto Museum Industrial Tour

Is the prison tour self-guided or guided?
The experience is primarily self-guided, allowing visitors to explore cellblocks and exhibits at their own pace.

How large is the automobile collection?
The Montana Auto Museum features dozens of vintage cars along with engines, memorabilia, and transportation artifacts.

Are original prison cells still intact?
Yes. Many original cellblocks and structural features remain preserved as they were during operation.

Is the site suitable for children?
Yes, though some prison exhibits may feel intense for younger visitors due to historical content.

How far is Deer Lodge from Butte or Missoula?
Deer Lodge is approximately 35 minutes from Butte and about 1 hour from Missoula by car.