EVENT CANCELED: Due to ongoing public health concerns related to the novel coronavirus, Eastern State Penitentiary will temporarily close to the public as of 5:00 pm on March 13 and remain closed through at least March 31. As a result this event has been canceled. For our full statement on this and further updates, please click here.

---

Members only. Registration required.

Eastern State Penitentiary and Girard College have been neighbors for more than 180 years. Go behind the Girard College wall for a behind-the-scenes tour and discussion exploring the historical links between these two Philadelphia landmarks.

Check out Eastern State Architect John Haviland’s proposed, and ultimately rejected, design for Girard College. Learn about how Girard College and Eastern State Penitentiary were both must-see locations for 19th-century tourists, and find out which Eastern State warden was a Girard College alum.

A note about accessibility: This tour will take place at Girard College and will include a 15-minute walk uphill from Eastern State Penitentiary. The collection is located in an historic building which requires the use of steps. If you would prefer to use a lift instead of the steps during the tour, please let us know by Friday, March 20. Email [email protected] or call (215) 236-5111 x224.

This event is free for all members. Reserve free tickets online or call 215-236-5111 x224. Space is limited. 

Join us on the third Saturday of every month for a special members-only program.

Experience Eastern State as only members can, through exclusive tours on the third Saturday of each month at 11:00 am. These unique, members-only events shed light on new historical findings, take you behind the scenes, and much more. Discover our collections, explore our site, illuminate history, and make unexpected connections.

Not a Member? Join today! Questions? Email us at [email protected]

---

Photo: Woodcut view of Girard College, The American Cyclopædia, v. 13, 1879, p. 400, Public Domain.