Learn. Discuss. Share.
Through online programs and videos, you’ll hear from experts, justice-impacted individuals, youth, and the public to foster a deeper understanding of the evolution and impacts of the justice system and justice reform in America. Together, we’ll build connections, community, and conversation, inspiring a more just future.
PUBLIC PROGRAMS
Justice 101
Justice 101 is a discussion series examining the history of the justice system in America, from its founding to today, and the impact it has on society, citizens, and the world. Join us live for an upcoming program or watch back recordings of previous discussions, like the history of solitary confinement, restorative justice, prison labor, and more.
LEARN MOREEDUCATIONAL VIDEOS
Unlocking History
What was life like for women at Eastern State Penitentiary? What’s it like to return home after incarceration? How have prison sports programs changed over time? Unlocking History is a video series that examines the stories of everyday people and their lives at Eastern State Penitentiary and in prisons today.
LEARN MOREHistory of Eastern State Penitentiary
Eastern State Penitentiary opened in 1829, becoming America’s first penitentiary. What did that mean, exactly, and how did it change the world?
Visit the Historic Site
Experience ESPHS your way – with an audio tour, a guide-led tour, or a self-guided exploration – all included with admission.
AUDIO TOUR:
Narrated by Steve Buscemi and featuring the voices of people who lived and worked at Eastern State Penitentiary, the audio tour takes you on a journey through the history and legacy of ESP. Audio Tour admission also includes Mini Tours, exhibits, and art installations. Available every day from 10 am to 5 pm (last entry 4 pm).
GUIDE-LED TOUR:
This 45-minute tour is led by an Eastern State educator and explores ESP's complex history, its ongoing relevance to contemporary social issues, and sets the stage for conversation about the role of prisons in society today. Guide-Led Tour admission also includes Mini Tours, exhibits, and art installations. Available at 12:00 pm on weekdays and at 11:00 am every Saturday and Sunday. Availability is limited.
WEDNESDAY NIGHTS:
With a different theme each week, Wednesday Nights provide a fun and meaningful night out—combining history, culture, and entertainment in a one-of-a-kind setting. Admission includes immersive experiences, behind-the-scenes access, and entry to The Fair Chance Beer Garden. Available Wednesdays through July 2, 5:30 to 9:30 pm (last entry 9 pm).
Upcoming Justice Education Events
Justice 101
Monday, September 01 - Friday, July 31, 2026
Join us each month as we dive into some of the most pressing issues in criminal justice today, through a historical lens and with a focus on civic education. Each program includes interactive online or in-person elements, expert voices, and opportunities for community dialogue.
2025 PA Civics Educator Forum
Thursday, November 13, 2025
8:00am - 3:30pm
Off-site event at Marywood University School of Education. The Eastern State Center for Justice Education joins and facilitates a workshop at “Teaching America’s 250th Anniversary: Understanding Our Past, Shaping What’s Next,” a professional development forum for educators presented by PA Civics.
Scout Days
Saturday, November 15 - Sunday, December 07, 2025
Led by our engaging staff, all Scout Days participants will enjoy interactive discussions and activities. Members of Scouting America and Girl Scouts of the USA will also meet badge requirements.
In-Person Scout Day: Architecture
Saturday, November 15, 2025
All Day
$21 per person. Advance registration required. Eastern State invites members of Scouting America, Girl Scouts of the USA, and all youth to join us for In-Person Scout Day: Architecture. Led by our engaging staff, learn more about Eastern State Penitentiary's history, the building's unique design, the ethics of prison architecture, and careers in architecture and historic preservation.
Justice 101: Restorative Justice: A Closer Look at Alternatives
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
5:30pm - 7:30pm
Free event. Advance registration required. Explore the dynamics of restorative justice, a practice that offers a transformative approach to addressing harm, emphasizing dialogue and understanding between victims and perpetrators as a path to healing and closure.
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Justice 101: State of the Union: Excessive Punishment The 8th Amendment and the Justice System
Wednesday, December 03, 2025
5:30pm - 7:30pm
Free event. Advance registration required. What does it mean for a punishment to be cruel and unusual? How has the interpretation of the Eighth Amendment shaped American justice over time and where is its legal interpretation today?
Virtual Scout Day: Architecture
Sunday, December 07, 2025
11:00am - 2:15pm
$17 per participant. Online via Zoom. Advance registration required. Eastern State invites members of Scouting America, Girl Scouts of the USA, and all youth to join us for Virtual Scout Day: Architecture. Led by our engaging staff, learn more about Eastern State Penitentiary's history, the building's unique design, the ethics of prison architecture, and careers in architecture and historic preservation.
Justice 101: Bill of Rights: Trial Amendments and the Rights of the Accused
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
12:00pm - 1:00pm
Free online event. Advance registration required. Join us for this dynamic conversation as we trace the evolving promise of due process and its enduring impact on human dignity and the justice system.
Justice 101: The Civil Rights Movement: Finding Justice and Calling on the Declaration of Independence
Thursday, January 01, 2026
All Day
Date and details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Monday, January 19, 2026
All Day
Free online. Included with admission in person. Commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy and contemplate the significance and ongoing relevance of his pivotal civil rights texts, including his 1963 “Letter from Birmingham Jail” and famous "I Have a Dream" speech, during an all-day event at Eastern State Penitentiary.
Justice 101: The First Amendment and Incarceration: Natural Right to Freedom of Expression
Sunday, February 01, 2026
All Day
Date and details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.
Justice 101: Women and Incarceration
Sunday, March 01, 2026
All Day
Date and details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.
Virtual Scout Day
Saturday, March 14, 2026
All Day
Led by our expert staff and partners with expertise in historic preservation, architecture, and construction trades, scouts will enjoy a full day of virtual, interactive discussions and activities. Details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.
Justice 101: To Establish Justice: Reentry and Recidivism
Wednesday, April 01, 2026
All Day
Date and details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.
In Person Scout Day
Sunday, April 19, 2026
All Day
Led by our engaging staff, all In-Person Scout Day participants will enjoy interactive discussions and activities. Members of Scouting America and Girl Scouts of the USA will also meet badge requirements. Details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.
Justice 101: National Historic Preservation: The Power of Place
Friday, May 01, 2026
All Day
Date and details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.
Justice 101: The History of the Justice System in England and America
Wednesday, July 01, 2026
All Day