America's Most Historic Prison
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. Its vaulted, sky-lit cells held nearly 85,000 people over its long history, including bank robber "Slick Willie" Sutton and "Scarface" Al Capone.
Make a Gift Today
With your help, we have begun to preserve many of the sacred spaces that tell the story of Eastern State and its inhabitants, but there is still much to do. The Alfred W. Flesher Memorial Synagogue and countless other preservation projects throughout this historic site need your support.
Open Every Day, 10 AM - 5 PM
Hours of Operation
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is currently open every day from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The historic site is closed on following holidays: Thanksgiving (November 28), Christmas Eve (December 24), Christmas Day (December 25), and New Year’s Day (January 1).
Starting January 2, 2025 — the historic site will be open Wednesday through Monday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Become a Member
Revisit the past. Rethink the future. Members support the work we do every day and receive exclusive benefits like free daytime historic site admission, special discounts, Halloween Nights perks, and more!
December 21, 2024, 10:00 am – January 5, 2025, 5:00 pm
Winter Break: Compassion & Charity
Included with admission. December 21 - January 5. Visiting Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site (ESPHS) during your winter holiday break? Engage with special programming including a pop-up exhibit, Mini Tours, artist talk and more — all of which highlight the important role compassion and charity played at Eastern State and in prisons today. Learn more
Holiday Toy & Toiletries Drive
Eastern State invites community members to come together and support our neighbors by taking part in a Holiday Toy & Toiletries Drive. Donations will be accepted from November 29 through December 20 and may be dropped off in person or purchased online and shipped to the historic site.
Collaboratory for Justice Education
The Collaboratory for Justice Education at Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is a dynamic community of dedicated and enthusiastic people with a shared passion for justice education committed to generating innovative solutions for understanding intricate societal issues.
