Gila County Jail - Globe, Arizona

Gila County Jail: A Historical Landmark

The Gila County Jail, located at 177 E Oak St #171, Globe, AZ 85501, stands as a significant historical landmark within the state of Arizona. Established in 1905, the jail’s architecture and history offer a compelling glimpse into the past of Gila County and the evolution of law enforcement in the region. It’s a place of considerable interest for those seeking to understand the local heritage and appreciate a tangible piece of American history. The facility has undergone several renovations and expansions throughout its lifespan, reflecting changing security standards and the needs of the community it serves. Today, it continues to operate as a correctional facility, while simultaneously maintaining its status as a preserved landmark.

Location and Accessibility

The jail’s address, 177 E Oak St #171, Globe, AZ 85501, places it in the heart of Globe, a historic town nestled in the southwestern corner of Arizona. Globe’s proximity to Miami and the surrounding mountain ranges contributes to its unique character. Visitors can easily access the jail via various routes, with ample parking available. On-site services include accessibility features designed to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. Specifically, the facility offers a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that all interested parties can explore the site.

Specialties and Features

The Gila County Jail’s primary specialty is undoubtedly its historical significance. It’s a building that has witnessed decades of local and regional events, housing a diverse range of individuals throughout its history. The jail's design reflects the architectural styles prevalent in the early 20th century, showcasing elements of the American Romanesque Revival style. Within the jail’s walls, visitors can often find exhibits and displays that document the jail’s history, providing valuable context and insights into the lives of those who were once incarcerated there. The historical landmark designation underscores its importance as a cultural asset for the community.

Visitor Information

Interested individuals can obtain detailed information about visiting the Gila County Jail through the official website: gilacountyaz.gov. This website provides updates on tour schedules, facility rules, and any special events that may be occurring. Alternatively, prospective visitors can contact the jail directly at Phone: 9284254449. It’s recommended to call in advance to confirm tour availability and to inquire about any specific requirements or guidelines.

Recent Feedback and Experiences

The Gila County Jail consistently receives positive feedback from visitors. Numerous reviews on Google My Business highlight the informative and engaging nature of the tours. The general sentiment is one of appreciation for the opportunity to step back in time and learn about the jail’s rich history. Many visitors specifically mention the helpfulness and friendliness of the staff, particularly a young woman on February 13, 2025, whose assistance was described as “sweet and helpful.” One visitor recalled capturing a voice on video during a tour, noting the presence of a distinct, gruffer voice – though not an older male – and an accompanying “hey kid” at the tour's conclusion. While the recording was prematurely stopped, the experience left a lasting impression. The jail’s commitment to providing detailed video tours contributes significantly to the visitor experience.

Average Opinion: 4.6/5

The Average opinion: 4.6/5 rating on Google My Business reflects the overwhelmingly positive experiences shared by visitors. This high rating underscores the jail’s value as a historical attraction and a source of educational and cultural enrichment. The facility’s dedication to accessibility, combined with its engaging tours and knowledgeable staff, makes it a worthwhile destination for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. The attention to detail in maintaining the building and preserving its historical significance further enhances the visitor experience. The ongoing efforts to improve visitor services and provide informative resources demonstrate a commitment to ensuring that the Gila County Jail remains a valuable asset to the community for years to come.

Key Features Summary:

• Historical Significance: A preserved landmark offering insights into Gila County’s past.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance.
• On-Site Services: Information available through the website and phone.
• Tours: Engaging video tours and physical exploration of the facility.
• Local Heritage: A tangible connection to Arizona’s history.

👍 Reviews of Gila County Jail

David R.

5/5

On our trip to see the sights around Globe and Miami, we didn't want to miss the jail. The young girl/lady there on 2/13/25 was as sweet and helpful as can be. We watched the video and then toured the place up and down. Really interesting and we are glad to have done this.

Tonia G.

5/5

We went for a tour at the Gila County Jail and caught a voice on video. There was no older male with us with a gruffer voice. At the end of our video, you hear something like "hey kid". I unfortunately stopped recording too soon.

Rodger M.

5/5

Great place for any history buffs and those looking to check out a place with paranormal activity. Az ghost tours is one of the few I've been with on their historic ghost tours. Definitely a group to check out! Very informative and fun group. The fact that they're about giving the money that's paid for the tours to the historical society to keep this and the many other historic buildings standing is awesome!

Lisa K.

5/5

This place is a super cool tour! Molly is just so kind, you start with a small video of the history of the jail and then take your time touring the place. I love it best at night!

Darlene W.

5/5

Such a great historical place to visit. They have informative tours of the jail talking about the history and the ghosts that still linger at the jail.
We do paranormal investigations and have done many here at the jail. Never disappoints...we always have ghostly visitors when we are there. Especially in the women's section of the jail.

vicki G.

4/5

Had a great time wandering around the jail. We did the self guided tour and enjoyed the history. The young lady guide on the door was very informative of the history and a few personal ghost stories. Great fun.

Marie D. (.

5/5

Nice escape from the Phoenix heat!

Our visit to old County Sheriff's Office and Jail began with a video detailing the history of the Gila County jailhouse. If you're interested in paranormal, it is said the jailhouse is haunted. After that we were free to wander throughout rooms of the Sheriff's Office and then the jail blocks which are set up like a Territorial prison. While we didn't see any ghosts, we photographed lots of quite interesting inmate graffiti, some of it a bit offensive.
Admission to the Jail is a suggested donation of $5.

While you're in Globe, make a day of it! There are good restaurants among the old buildings in the historic district and multiple other historical museums to visit, including The Gila County Historical Museum, Cobre Valley Center for the Arts, and Besh-Ba-Gawah Archaeological Park/museum.

Tee L.

5/5

Way cool!!! Gotta check it out, went with SPIA, amazing group of people! Had some strange goin on's here