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Eastern State Penitentiary
Up to 2 hours
Haunting and fascinating in equal measure, Philadelphia's Eastern State Penitentiary is a must for true crime fanatics and history buffs alike.
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What visitors are saying
4.7Everything from the audio tour, access to the grounds, and informative staff made our experience exceptional!
Mar 19, 2026The audio guide was really cool and made everything easy to understand.
Mar 4, 2026- Explore Philadelphia with Go City®Your Philadelphia pass includes dozens of other top attractions, all for one money-saving price
- Audio tour
Overview
Step into this historic prison and see the comfortably-furnished cell where Chicago gangster Al Capone was held for eight months.
A trip to Philadelphia wouldn't be complete without going to the infamous prison.
In addition to being famous for housing several high-profile criminals, the Eastern State Penitentiary also played an important part in modernizing the American judicial system and moving away from capital punishment.
You'll take a self-guided tour around the architectural wonder, which had running water and central heating before the White House in its day, and learn all about its infamous residents. Marvel at the beautiful vaulted ceilings and castle-like walls which stand in stark contrast to the dim cellblocks and death row.
Your Eastern State Penitentiary ticket includes access to all regular exhibits and art installations. And, if space is available, you can reserve a spot at the admissions desk for the daily guided tour and discussion.
Eastern State Penitentiary exhibition highlights
Al Capone’s cell
You’ll get to see the very cell where the infamous Chicago-area gangster served eight months of his one-year sentence at Eastern State Penitentiary. His cell includes many comforts not typically allowed to inmates, including furniture, rugs, artwork, and more.
Unlocking history
These short tours take place throughout the penitentiary, each lasting from five to 20 minutes. Join an Eastern State educator to unlock history by exploring a special topic or experiencing a space not otherwise open to the public.
Artist installations
Art installations, chosen for their ability to address the primary themes of Eastern State, approach topics such as the American criminal justice system and the penitentiary’s past through thought-provoking displays.
Facts
The first female prisoner was received in 1831.
The first prison escape was in 1832. The escapee was captured but managed to do it again in 1837.
The controversial practice of solitary confinement was officially abandoned at Eastern State Penitentiary in 1913.
Leo Callahan, an escapee in 1923, remains the only Eastern State prisoner to never be recaptured.
Inmate number C-2559 was Pep, “The Cat-Murdering Dog,” who served a life sentence.
In January 1970, the Eastern State Penitentiary closed and the first limited group tours of the building began in 1988.
In 1994, visitors were required to wear hard hats and sign liability waivers. In 2003 and 2008, visitors were no longer required to wear hard hats and sign liability waivers, respectively.
What's included
Spend time exploring the Eastern State Penitentiary with a self-guided audio tour.
Get the chance to see Al Capone’s cell.
Explore this attraction and 32 more, all for one low price
View all attractionsWhere you'll be
2027 Fairmount Ave,, Philadelphia, USStandard opening hours
On Saturday, October 3rd, Eastern State Penitentiary will be providing free admission to all guests. All guests will be gaining entry on a first come, first served basis. There is no guarantee of entry.
Upcoming schedule changes
Historically restored to an impressive condition.
Matthew W ·Amazing views of the cells. Audio masterfully done
fantastic
maria ·omg this has been on my bucket list and it certainly didn't disappoint. it really gave a glimpse on life at ESP
More than I expected
Take the Tour ·I liked this as much if not more than Alcatraz. It really makes you think about crime and punishment.
ESP
Tory ·Super interesting and impressive. Would recommend on your visit
Neat and unique self guided tour
Colby ·We did the self guided audio tour, it was actually a good tour and not too much overwhelming information, mostly neat stuff. It was easy to get here on the hop on hop off bus, worth the time for sure.
Crazy bit of history
Mary ·Cool to see the construction and concept of this prison.
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