The Mansfield/Richland County Convention & Visitors Bureau launched a new Shawshank Trail website. The previous website is wildly successful in distributing information to people wanting to learn more about the 14 filming sites used in The Shawshank Redemption. The CVB wanted to take the site to the next level with new technology, design elements, and visitor-centered navigation. The new website includes beautiful pictures, a comprehensive “frequently asked questions” page, videos and podcasts about the filming locations and soon a download link to a newly designed and reformatted Shawshank Trail guide. Movie aficionados, tourists or locals looking for an authentic movie experience should look no further than www.ShawshankTrail.com.
Fourteen unique filming sites around Mansfield, Ashland and Upper Sandusky make up the Shawshank Trail. From Shawshank State Prison (Ohio State Reformatory), to the opening scene of the movie (Pugh Cabin at Malabar Farm), to the pawn shop where Red buys a compass (Carrousel Antiques), there are historic locations to visit. The Shawshank Trail is a driving tour, explore at your own pace.
The new website will enhance any trip and serve as a tool while you navigate the trail. According to CVB Group Tour and Media Director Jodie Snavely, “This website is for the Shawshank Redemption fan and brings scenes from the movie to life. The Trail is a pilgrimage that can’t be experienced anywhere else in the world.” Updated features include a comprehensive FAQ section that answers your questions before they’re asked. Questions like, “Are there overnight accommodations nearby?” and “Do I see sites from a bus or my own car?” The website works well on all mobile devices which allows it to be used at any point on the trail.
Bring a member of the Shawshank Redemption cast with you as a guide with 14 podcasts narrated by Jim Kisicki, who played the bank manager. Each site is narrated with context to the film and the actions of the characters. Along the way, take pictures and become a part of the Shawshank Trail history. Upload your picture on the website to share your enjoyment with other fans of this one-of-a kind experience. Download or order a trail guide before you travel, and also check out the local Visitor Guide to learn more about the area.
As you meander around the trail sites, commemorate the trip with a Shawshank themed souvenir or product, try a bottle of Andy’s Private Stock root beer in the Historic Carousel District or purchase an Ohio State Reformatory t-shirt. A complete list of local businesses is available on the website with information about Shawshank themed souvenirs, food, beverages, even bundt cakes and chocolates. Lodging packages at nearby hotels are also listed including direct links to hotels and will extend and enhance any trip to the area. Look for the Shawshank Trail markers and window stickers to identify all associated locations.
The Shawshank Trail is not a sterilized film set and is unique from any other movie filming site. The Shawshank Trail lets you put yourself inside the movie at real filming sites up close. Visit the Shawshank Trail website, download or order a trail guide, and put this movie-themed experience on your calendar.
Written by CVB intern Adam Bloir