Alcatraz East Crime Museum
Pigeon Forge Parkway · Two floors of American crime history
The collection here began as the National Museum of Crime and Punishment in Washington, D.C., and moved to the Parkway in 2016 — which is why the artifacts are the real objects rather than reproductions. Ted Bundy's Volkswagen Beetle is here, and so is the white Ford Bronco from the O.J. Simpson chase. Some of the galleries cover their subject in real detail, so it's worth knowing your group before you walk in.
Alcatraz East Crime Museum is the stone "prison" you can't miss on the Pigeon Forge Parkway. Inside, two floors of galleries take you through American crime, from Old West outlaws to the cases that dominated the evening news.
It's part history museum and part hands-on detective lab, with more than 100 interactive exhibits along the way. True-crime fans will be in their element, and it's a great indoor pick for a rainy day in the Smokies.
A building made to look like a prison
Alcatraz East blends design features from Tennessee and Alcatraz. The ornate, castle-like facade is modeled on the Tennessee State Prison, which opened in 1898 just outside Nashville. The guard towers take their cue from the Alcatraz lighthouse and modern watchtowers. Inside, the museum covers about 25,000 square feet across two floors.
The five galleries at Alcatraz East
A Notorious History of American Crime
The story starts with early pirates and Old West gunslingers and moves through gangsters, white-collar crime and modern events. This is where you'll find the famous getaway cars.
Punishment: The Consequence of Crime
See what happens after an arrest. Step into a police lineup, check out mug shots and the lie detector, and feel the cold iron bars of a jail cell for yourself.
Crime Scene Investigation
Play detective with the science that solves cases: ballistics, DNA and blood analysis, fingerprinting and facial reconstruction.
Crime Fighting
Meet the people on the other side of the law, from local police to federal agencies like the FBI, plus legendary lawmen Eliot Ness and Tennessee's own Buford Pusser.
Counterfeit Crimes and Pop Culture
Learn how to spot fake designer goods, medication and electronics, and explore crimes tied to celebrities and sports stars.
Famous artifacts
The collection is what makes Alcatraz East stand out. Two of its best-known pieces are Ted Bundy's Volkswagen Beetle and the white Ford Bronco from the O.J. Simpson chase. The getaway car lineup has also included the Bonnie and Clyde "death car" used in the 1967 film. Exhibits rotate over time, so check the museum's website for what's on display during your visit.
Hands-on fun
With more than 100 interactives, Alcatraz East is made for touching, trying and testing. Try to crack a safe, pose for your own "wanted" poster, and spend a few moments behind bars. Kids who love mysteries can join the Junior Detectives program. Many families find it's a fun way to sneak a little science into vacation.
Plan your visit
2757 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 453-3278
It's in Pigeon Forge: Alcatraz East is on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, not in Gatlinburg, so it's an easy stop between other Parkway attractions.
Give yourself time: There's a lot to read and do across two floors. Don't rush it, especially if you want to try the interactives.
Know your group: Some exhibits cover serious crimes in real detail. Families with younger kids may want to preview the galleries before visiting, or steer toward the forensics and hands-on areas.
Check before you go: Hours change with the seasons, holidays and special events, so confirm them on the museum's website or call ahead.
More indoor attractions nearby
Pair Alcatraz East with another Pigeon Forge favorite. The Titanic Museum is another can't-miss indoor attraction on the Parkway, and the Hollywood Wax Museum and WonderWorks make great rainy-day stops. For dinner and shopping after, head to The Island in Pigeon Forge. For more ideas, see all our Pigeon Forge attractions.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Alcatraz East Crime Museum?
At 2757 Parkway in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. It isn't in Gatlinburg, though it's a short drive from there.
Is the building modeled after Alcatraz?
Partly. The facade is based on the 1898 Tennessee State Prison near Nashville, and the guard towers are inspired by the Alcatraz lighthouse and modern watchtowers.
What famous artifacts are at Alcatraz East?
Highlights include Ted Bundy's Volkswagen Beetle and the white Ford Bronco from the O.J. Simpson chase. Exhibits rotate, so check the museum's website for current displays.
How long does Alcatraz East take?
It depends on how much you read and how many of the 100+ interactives you try. Plan for a relaxed visit rather than a quick walk-through.
Is Alcatraz East good for kids?
Many families enjoy the forensics and hands-on exhibits, and there's a Junior Detectives program. Some galleries cover serious true crime, so parents may want to guide younger kids.
Alcatraz East is right on the Parkway, just minutes from our Pigeon Forge cabins. Our family cabins have room for everyone, our game room cabins keep the fun going on rainy evenings, and our hot tub cabins are made for unwinding after a day out. Book direct to get our Stay & Play Pass with free attraction tickets for every paid night.