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Entry ticket

Philadelphia: Eastern State Penitentiary Admission

4.7  / 5
228 reviews
Activity provider:Eastern State Penitentiary
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Entry ticket

Philadelphia: Eastern State Penitentiary Admission

Activity provider:Eastern State Penitentiary
4.7  / 5
228 reviews

From US$ 21 per person

Explore the cellblocks of Eastern State Penitentiary, once the most famous and expensive prison in the world. Learn about the history of this facility and its relevance today through interactive exhibits, history displays, and art installations.

About this ticket

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Valid 365 days
Check availability to see starting times.
Host or greeter
English
Audio guide included
English, Spanish
Wheelchair accessible

Experience

Highlights
  • Explore America's most historic prison
  • Peek into Al Capone's lavish cell
  • Tour the long-abandoned Hospital Block
Full description
Discover the historic building of the Eastern State Penitentiary which stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Learn about how when Eastern State opened more than 180 years ago, it changed the world of prisons and was copied throughout the world. 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. Discover how the building itself was an architectural wonder; it had running water and central heat before the White House. Marvel at the vaulted, sky-lit cells which once held many of America's most notorious criminals, including bank robber "Slick Willie" Sutton and Al Capone. As you explore the building, listen to 'The Voices of Eastern State' audio tour which is included in your admission price. Narrated by actor Steve Buscemi (known for Boardwalk Empire, Fargo, Armageddon, and Ghost World), this rich, stereo soundscape mixes dozens of voices. Hear the stories of 3 former wardens and 25 guards and inmates which create an atmospheric tour as you stroll through Eastern State's cellblocks and yards. When you arrive, receive an MP3 player and headset that will guide you through the penitentiary complex and explain the prison's history. This audio guide contains a main audio route, plus additional stops for subjects like escapes, riots, sports, sexuality, and more. You are free to tour at your own pace and to listen to (or skip) stops based on your interests. Also discover interactive experiences, history exhibits, and a critically acclaimed series of artist installations.
Includes
  • The Voices of Eastern State Audio tour
  • Interactive experiences
  • History exhibits
  • Artist installations
  • Guide-led tours (subject to availability)
  • Evening entry and tour
Not suitable for
  • Children under 7 years

Select participants and date

Participants

Date

Meeting point

Please enter through the main entrance of Eastern State Penitentiary on Fairmount Avenue.

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Important information

What to bring

  • Weather-appropriate clothing

Not allowed

  • Unaccompanied minors

Know before you go

  • Not recommended for children under the age of 7 as the building is in a state of semi-ruin and can pose safety hazards to unattended children
  • This tour operates rain or shine; the building does not have climate control so please dress for the weather
  • Be sure to wear appropriate footwear
  • Eastern State Penitentiary offers a wide range of accessibility services

From US$ 21 per person

Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today
Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today
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Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 228 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.7/5
  • Value for money
    4.6/5
  • Service
    4.5/5

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I visited ESP almost 10 years ago and the changes since my last visit were great to see. We spent 2 hours wandering around the site listening to all the interesting facts and stories and could have easily spent another hour walking around if our time had allowed it. Highly recommend.

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August 21, 2023

M
Meaghan – CanadaVerified booking

Helpful?

Very interesting. Not restored, authentic. The self guided tour is well done. Worth a few hours of your day to learn about the history of prisons in the US and how conditions were back then. This facility was built 200 years ago! Thank you Philadelphia for not ripping it down and for preserving this remarkable touchstone to your past.

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June 6, 2022

C
Colin – United StatesVerified booking

Helpful?

Upon a recommendation from a member in my book club I got tickets for myself and friends to "hop off" at the Eastern State Penitentiary. The outside dilapidated walls set us up for a hauntingly poignant step back in time to an unsuccessful attempt to solicit penitence. The audio and visual aids send you on an insightful journey through our penal system. I would strongly encourage anyone visiting Philadelphia to experience this incredible piece of history. I will have these images forever.

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November 2, 2019

K
Kerry Verified booking

Helpful?

Product ID: 110998

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  • Pennsylvania
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  • Eastern State Penitentiary

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