Alcatraz East Crime Museum in Pigeon Forge, TN

2757 ParkwayPigeon Forge, TN 37863
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TripAdvisor user rating 4.50 out of 5 Based on 1520 reviews

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Overview

Discover the history of American crime at Alcatraz East Crime Museum in Pigeon Forge — if you dare! This expansive museum features artifacts from notorious crimes, criminals, and prisons such as Alcatraz. Featuring five hands-on galleries, guests can learn about everything from crime scene investigation to crime in pop culture. From mugshots to forensic science, this crime museum has it all.

up to 3 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

from Ashley, one of our Pigeon Forge Travel Experts
  • Located at the entrance to The Island in Pigeon Forge.
  • Additional parking located behind the building and at The Island.
  • Plan to spend 2 to 3 hours, or more if you're a crime buff.
  • The Alcatraz Museum Pigeon Forge features over 500 authentic artifacts.
  • Open 365 days a year.
  • Lockers are available for rent on a first come, first served basis.
  • A crime museum featuring an in-depth look at American crime history as a whole, not just the penitentiary on Alcatraz Island.
  • Look for the famous O.J. Simpson chase Bronco, John Dillinger’s death mask, Al Capone’s rosary, a submachine gun from the movie Scarface, and Ted Bundy’s VW Beetle.

Description

from Alcatraz East Crime Museum
Explore the notorious history of American crime, punishment, crime fighting, and investigation. Alcatraz East Crime Museum features five unique galleries that burrow deep into criminal profiles, the penal system, victim’s stories, crime prevention, forensic science, law enforcement, and the justice system. The museum is 25,000 square feet, spread over 2 floors, and includes over 100 interactive exhibits.

This Alcatraz museum in Pigeon Forge is located at the entrance to The Island in Pigeon Forge. Alcatraz East has 20 exhibit areas highlighting five (5) themes: History of American Crime, Consequences of Crime, CSI, Crime Fighting, Counterfeit & Pop Culture.

Some of the famous artifacts included are:
  • John Dillinger’s Car
  • Al Capone’s Rosary
  • The Bronco used in the OJ Simpson chase
  • Al Pacino’s machine gun from Scarface


Kids can enjoy:
  • Jail Cell Escape
  • Prohibition Shooting Gallery
  • Modern Police Shooting Range
  • Heist Laser Maze (additional cost)
  • Numerous Photo Ops
  • Top Detective Challenge! (additional cost)


New Exhibit: Cults, Power, and Trafficking
Master manipulators run rampant throughout the crime world. They come from a variety of backgrounds, ways of life, and religions, but they all manage to manipulate others for their own purposes. This exhibit will explore different examples of manipulation and the methods through which these criminals exploit their victims for personal gain

Temporary Exhibits:
Alcatraz East hosts temporary exhibits related to crime and law enforcement topics, often in partnership with outside organizations. Temporary exhibits are included with every ticket.

Note: Hours may vary for special events, holidays, and seasonally.

Alcatraz East Crime Museum Reviews

56 Reviews
Faith Hoosier Tripster User Profile Image
Faith Hoosier
Indianapolis, IN
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Fun place to visit"
December 2022
I really enjoyed my visit to the Alcatraz East Crime Museum. They have many interactive exhibits. I will definitely be back.
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Tip: Audio tour was extra but well worth it.

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Derek Edge Tripster User Profile Image
Derek Edge
Hurlock, MD
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"More then I thought"
December 2022
Went into this place thinking that it was just about Alcatraz. It’s actually a lot more and it’s huge! Loved the experience!
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Tip: It’s not just about Alcatraz and the bathrooms are on the second floor.

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Melissa Hester Tripster User Profile Image
Melissa Hester
Pascagoula, MS
2 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"Watch your back Lol"
October 2022
It's amazing?? learning all the history in the criminals and appreciated the law men involved in their capture. Lot's of personal items you get to see.
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Tip: It's so awesome and the employee's are great??

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Jordan Sampson Tripster User Profile Image
Jordan Sampson
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
1 Review
Verified Traveler
"Very thorough"
October 2022
So many rooms and things to see. I loved that it started in the Middle Ages and went up through current times. There was a lot to see and you could tell they keep up to date with current events. Recommend for all true crime fans.
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Tip: Set aside a good few hours and get there early to avoid a long line

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Dustin  Edwards  Tripster User Profile Image
Dustin Edwards
Dalton , GA
8 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"Disappointed"
September 2022
Staff was friendly facilities were clean but overall just a boring experience should be just labeled a museum that’s what it is
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Tip: Not much to do with Alcatraz

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Patty Embrey Tripster User Profile Image
Patty Embrey
Sumerduck, VA
4 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"Worth it"
August 2022
you get to see a lot of cool things and go when you want
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Tip: This is a good one

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Todd Crosco Tripster User Profile Image
Todd Crosco
Falling Waters, WV
3 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"Crosco vacation 2022"
August 2022
Was better than I expected.. lots of info, lots of hands on stuff to do
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Tip: Plan on about 2hrs, we'll worth the price

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RACHAEL NESSELRODT Tripster User Profile Image
RACHAEL NESSELRODT
Spotsylvania, VA
7 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"great stop in Tennessee"
August 2022
we visited in august the weather was great we did have a little bit of a line to wait in to get in but wasnt terrible. i went with a 10 year old and adults. we were in there a little over a hour. they had some interactive things to do . and they had some cool items from crime's or replicas. most i felt like i already knew but was neat to look at. you can walk around at your own pace .
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Alcatraz East Crime Museum is located at 2757 ParkwayPigeon Forge, TN 37863
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Frequently Asked Questions about Alcatraz East Crime Museum

What are the Alcatraz Pigeon Forge hours of operation?

The Alcatraz Museum Pigeon Forge is open 365 days a year from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm. Hours are subject to change based on seasonality or events. Check the hours and availability of your preferred days in the ticket section above!

How long should we stay in the museum?

Guests should allow about 2 to 3 hours to complete the entire museum.

Is there somewhere to buy food and/or beverages at the museum?

The museum does sell drinks and snacks but does not have an eating facility. Fortunately, the museum is located at the Island, so there are plenty of places within walking distance to grab a snack or a meal.

Is Alcatraz East Crime Museum appropriate for children?

The museum is appropriate for all ages. Please do note that due to the nature of the museum, there is mature content. The museum has gone to great lengths to ensure that children and adults alike have a pleasant experience.