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 held nearly 85,000 people over its long history, including bank robber "Slick Willie" Sutton and "Scarface" Al Capone.
Become a Member
Revisit the past. Rethink the future. Members support the work we do every day and receive exclusive benefits like free admission, invitations to members-only experiences, special discounts, and more!
Select evenings, May 25 - Sept 4
Night Tours: Summer Twilight
Enjoy special evening access to Eastern State Penitentiary! Explore the historic cellblocks as the sun goes down. Grab a drink and participate in hands-on activities in The Fair Chance Beer Garden.
Make a Gift
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Help us to preserve this National Historic Landmark and advance our mission to interpret the legacy of criminal justice reform in America.
April 1, 2023, 9:00 am – 10:30 am
Guide-Led Sensory-Friendly Touch Tour
Free. Advance registration required. Eastern State Penitentiary invites people who are blind, who have low vision, or who have sensory sensitivity needs to experience the historic site through a sensory-friendly touch tour. Learn more
What We're Reading
"Determining whether people are mentally fit for trial in Pa. often traps them in the place making them worse: Jail" written by Nate Smallwood, Philadelphia Inquirer, March 9, 2023.
Pic of the Week
Share your best Eastern State photos on Instagram for a chance to be featured. Be sure to tag us @easternstate! This week's photo by @thatnorthernman.
