The Ultimate Shawshank Bucket List Adventure

By Tonya Prater

The Shawshank Redemption wasn’t only filmed at the historic Ohio State Reformatory; it also paved the way to save the prison from the wrecking ball and transformed a decrepit building into the hometown treasure it is today. Each year, millions of fans take a pilgrimage to Mansfield, Ohio to tour the prison, drive the self-guided Shawshank Trail, and participate in the Shawshank Hustle 7K. Along the way, they discover even more to love throughout Richland County.

This August, Shawshank fans from around the globe will gather in Mansfield, Ohio to Celebrate 30 Years of Shawshank (August 8-11, 2024). This film, the No. 1 movie of all time on the Internet Movie Database (IMDb), has profoundly shaped tourism in the north-central Ohio community. The full event schedule is available on the website (ShawshankTrail.com).

If you’re visiting Mansfield for The Shawshank Redemption 30th Anniversary Celebration, here’s what you need to know. This event features many unique activities and events. You can even buy a ticket to see the cast on stage at the Renaissance Theatre moderated by Turner Classic Movies’, Ben Mankiewicz! The historic Renaissance Theatre and Prohibition at the Caverns will screen the movie. Theatre 166 will host panel discussions with the background actors, and fans can enjoy seeing actual filming sites along The Shawshank Trail.

The Shawshank Bucket List

The 30th Anniversary celebration promises to be a major event for Shawshank fans, but Mansfield celebrates Shawshank all year round. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the film, Mansfield is the place to be. Discover the ultimate Shawshank bucket list, packed with must-see filming locations, unique attractions, and memorable experiences that showcase the charm of Mansfield and its surrounding areas. There’s something for everyone to enjoy!

1. Tour the Ohio State Reformatory & the Shawshank Museum

The Historic Ohio State Reformatory is the spot where the magic began. If you only have time for one attraction, the prison is a must-see. The prison served as Maine’s Shawshank State Prison in the movie and where Andy, Red, and other Shawshank Redemption characters lived life on the inside.

The prison offers both guided and self-guided tours, and you can’t go wrong with either. However, I recommend the 90-minute guided “Hollywood Meets History” walking tour to pick up fun facts that will amaze your friends. You’ll see Brooks’ hotel room, the Warden’s office, and the tunnel that led Andy to freedom.

The Shawshank Museum, located within the prison, is included in the cost of your ticket. You’ll find props, memorabilia, and exhibits about the making of the film. Don’t miss the photo ops that include joining the Shawshank gang at the lunch table or sitting behind the Warden’s desk.

Much of the prison is not climate-controlled so dress appropriately. It’s often hot in the summer and cold in the winter.

2. Explore the Filming Locations along The Shawshank Trail

Created by Destination Mansfield in 2008, The Shawshank Trail connects 15 filming locations in Mansfield, Ashland, Upper Sandusky, and even the final scene in Zihuatanejo, for visitors to explore.

There are two ways to experience this unique trail.

Take a guided bus tour.

Join a group of up to 15 passengers on a 3-hour guided bus tour to see 10 Shawshank filming locations and learn little-known facts about the movie. The tour concludes back at the prison for the “Hollywood Meets History” tour. The total time for the bus and prison tour is 4.5 hours.

Take a self-guided driving tour.

This option is perfect for those who prefer to explore at their own pace and don’t want to miss a thing. You can find a map for the guided driving tour of The Shawshank Trail online or pick up a printed brochure at the Historic Ohio State Reformatory or the office of Destination Mansfield-Richland County . The website will help you plan your trip and highlight attractions along the way to pick up souvenirs or grab a bite to eat.

Some of our favorite filming sites include Brooks’ bench in Mansfield’s Central Park and Pugh Cabin at Malabar Farm State Park, featured in the movie’s opening scene, and the gorgeous scenery of the vast farmlands seen along the Road to Buxton and Red’s Bus Ride after he was paroled from Shawshank Prison.

3. Run or Walk in the Shawshank Hustle 7K.

The Shawshank Hustle is a one-of-a-kind 7K race that starts and ends at the historic Ohio State Reformatory. Along the course, runners and walkers race up Redemption Hill (Main Street) to take selfies with Shawshank character cut-outs and see some of the filming locations on The Shawshank Trail, including Brook’s bench and an opportunity to ride the Richland Carrousel, the first wooden carousel built in the country since the 1940s.

After the race, participants can sip a Redemption IPA during the after-party at the Phoenix Brewing Company. The event, drawing about 3,000 participants, includes a tour of the reformatory and a unique finisher’s medal, a coveted collector’s item.

4. Snap a Selfie and Relive Your Experience for Years to Come.

Make sure your phone is charged and ready to snap some fun selfies. You’ll find plenty of photo ops along the trail, including several selfie stations you won’t want to miss:

Shawshank standups throughout the Historic Ohio State Reformatory.
A fun photo op with Andy and Red behind the Destination Mansfield-Richland County office in the patio area near The Brickyard.
A mural at KV Market of Red bagging groceries on the building’s exterior.

You’ll even find selfie stations in Upper Sandusky at the Shawshank Workshop, where you can snap photos with character stand ups of Bogs, Tommy, Red, Andy, Captain Hadley, and the district attorney.

5. Grab a Bite to Eat

Enjoy local eateries that celebrate the Shawshank theme, such as the Schofield Cafe, located within the Historic Ohio State Reformatory and named after the prison’s architect, Levi Schofield. Here, you can order a cold or hot beverage, a bakery item, or a grilled sandwich.

6. Escape from Shawshank

At the historic Ohio State Reformatory, take the challenge of the Shawshank-themed escape room experience that promises to be unforgettable! Put your problem-solving skills to the test as you find yourself trapped within the walls of this historic prison. Solve cryptic puzzles, decode the clues, and find your way to freedom before time runs out.

7. Spend the Night in a Prison Airbnb

For a truly unique experience, book a stay in one of the prison-themed Airbnb’s right across the street from the Ohio State Reformatory. The Hatlan House has been fully renovated with decor inspired by “The Shawshank Redemption” and the Ohio State Reformatory, featuring themed bedrooms like Warden Norton’s Office and Andy’s cell.

The Hatlan House is part of the “Hancock Heights” subdivision. Robert G. Hancock and his business partner, William Dow, were responsible for much of the construction of the Ohio State Reformatory. Some of the brick row houses were owned by the Hancock family. In the 1940s, this house was used by married Reformatory guards and their families.

Tips for a Wonderful Shawshank Experience

Plan Ahead: Check The Shawshank Trail website for updated information on locations, hours, and any special events or tours. Some sites may have specific visiting hours or require reservations.
Map It Out: Grab a trail map from the Destination Mansfield-Richland County Visitor Center or download it online. This will help you navigate the filming locations efficiently.
Comfortable Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a fair amount of walking, especially at the historic Ohio State Reformatory.
Camera Ready: Bring a camera or make sure your phone is fully charged. There are plenty of photo opportunities, including selfie stations and iconic filming locations.
Pack Snacks and Water: While some locations may have food options nearby, it’s always a good idea to have snacks and water on hand, especially if you’re spending a full day on the trail.
Respect the Sites: Remember that some locations are on private property or functioning businesses. Be respectful of the surroundings and follow any posted rules or guidelines.
Take Your Time: Don’t rush through the trail. Take your time to enjoy each location while you absorb the history and cinematic magic.
Local Eats: Take a break and enjoy some local food and drinks. There are great restaurants and cafes in Mansfield and surrounding areas.
Stay Overnight: Consider staying overnight in Mansfield or nearby. There are charming bed and breakfasts,short term rentals, hotels, and campgrounds that can make your trip more relaxing and enjoyable.
Enjoy your Shawshank journey!