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.
Help us build a bright future!
Make a Gift
With your help, we’ll establish Eastern State Penitentiary as a national leader in criminal justice education, expand our workforce development programs, re-imagine the visitor experience, and more.
November 24 — December 17
Holiday Toy Drive
Donate a new, unwrapped toy or children's book in exchange for "Buy One, Get One Free" daytime admission. Our annual toy drive benefits local children who have been impacted by incarceration.
Revisit the past. Rethink the future.
Become a Member
Members support the work we do every day and receive exclusive benefits like free daytime admission, invitations to members-only experiences, special discounts, and more!
December 3, 2023, 11:00 am – 2:15 pm
Virtual Scout Day: Architecture
Eastern State Penitentiary is thrilled to invite BSA and GSUSA scouts and all youth to participate in a specially-curated learning experience online on December 3. Learn more
What We're Reading
"Deputy fatally shoots man who served 16 years for wrongful conviction" written by Praveena Somasundaram for The Washington Post, October 18, 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 @kathys_captures.
