Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site
Eastern State Penitentiary was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, but stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Known for its grand architecture and strict discipline, this was the world's first true penitentiary: a prison designed to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of convicts. Its vaulted, sky-lit cells once held many of America's most notorious criminals, including bank robber ''Slick Willie'' Sutton and Al Capone. Tours today include the cellblocks, solitary punishment cells, Al Capone's Cell, and Death Row. A critically-acclaimed series of artists' installations is free with admission. Just five blocks from the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Hours
Open daily, year round from 10 am to 5 pm.Last entry: 4 pm
April through November: Admission includes the Voices of Eastern State audio tour narrated by actor Steve Buscumi. Eastern State Penitentiary may have had the first synagogue inside an American Prison. This sacred place is newly restored with a special exhibit. Open on Saturday and Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm. A guided tour of the synagogue is also available weekdays at 3:15 pm (included in standard admission). Also included in admission are special guided tours on the subjects of daily life, escapes, prison uprisings and artifacts.
December through March: Guided tours only.
Admission
$12 adult
$10 senior citizen
$8 student and child (ages 7-12)
Children under the age of 7 cannot be admitted to the site.
Location & Map
NOTE: We do our best to ensure all information is accurate, however it's a good idea to visit the website or call the venue to verify the information.