America's Most Historic Prison
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. Its vaulted, sky-lit cells once held many of America's most notorious lawbreakers, including "Slick Willie" Sutton and "Scarface" Al Capone.
Closure Updates
Due to ongoing public health concerns related to the novel coronavirus, Eastern State Penitentiary will remain temporarily closed to the public until further notice.
April 7, 2020, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
The Impact of COVID-19 on Incarcerated Populations and the Justice System
What We're Reading this Week
What it’s like to be locked in prison during the coronavirus pandemic, The Philadelphia Inquirer, April 1, 2020
Phase 1 Construction
This initial phase of construction will include upgrades to electricity and plumbing infrastructure and will lay the groundwork for the eventual construction of a visitor center.
