Explore America’s most historic prison at dusk! 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. Known for its grand architecture and strict discipline, this was the world’s first true “penitentiary,” a prison designed to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of prisoners. Its vaulted, sky-lit cells once held many of America’s most notorious criminals, including “Slick Willie” Sutton and “Scarface” Al Capone.
Free Museum Night admission includes “The Voices of Eastern State” Audio Tour, narrated by actor Steve Buscemi; Hands-On Historyinteractive experiences; history exhibits; and a critically acclaimed series of artist installations.
Historic site programming, especially “The Voices of Eastern State” Audio Tour, is subject to availability. Capacity is limited. Not recommended for children under the age of seven.
Please arrive within your half hour entry window. Entry is not guaranteed for late arrivals. Eastern State Penitentiary is located at 2027 Fairmount Avenue. The entrance is located on Fairmount Avenue between 21st and 22nd Street. Not recommended for children under the age of seven (7).
Warning: Eastern State Penitentiary remains in a state of semi-ruin. Visitors should exercise caution, and stay within clearly marked public areas. The holder of this ticket assumes all responsibilities for any risk of bodily harm or loss of property sustained while attending this attraction, and waives all rights to lay claim for damages resulting from any cause whatsoever either before, during or after the attraction.
For your safety, the penitentiary complex is monitored by a video surveillance system. No weapons (guns, knives, mace, pepper spray etc) may be brought into the penitentiary. Our security team reserves the right inspect all bags and pat down randomly selected individuals.