Eastern State Penitentiary was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world. Today, Eastern State is a modern ruin and museum that interprets the legacy of American criminal justice reform.
We offer a variety of experiences for school groups complimenting classroom lessons in subjects like civics, social studies, science, religion, humanities, law, philosophy, art, and more! Experiences can be tailored to meet the needs of all grade levels — from elementary school classrooms through college level courses. Eastern State is not recommended for children under the age of seven (7).
Ready? Book your school tour today! Or explore our offerings below.
Self-Guided School Group Audio Tour
When your group arrives, you'll each get an mp3 player and headphones that will guide you through the penitentiary at your own pace.
- Available Wednesday - Monday, 10:15 am - 3:45 pm
- Discounted rates for groups of 15+
- Adults - $13, Seniors - $12, Students - $10
- One complimentary pass per 15 paying visitors
Guide-Led School Group Tour
This 45-minute in-depth, guide-led tour explores Eastern State's complex history, its ongoing relevance to contemporary social issues, and sets the stage for conversation about justice and the role of prisons in society.
- Available Wednesday - Monday, 9:30 am - 3:30 pm
- Discounted rates for groups of 15 - 150
- Adults - $17, Seniors - $16, Students - $14
- One complimentary pass per 15 paying visitors
- Groups of less than 15 can reserve for a flat fee of $255
School Group Workshops
These 45-minute workshops are led by our engaging educators and include a 20-minute guided exploration of a space followed by a 25-minute hands-on discussion-based activity. In addition, all groups will be provided with a self-guided exploration handout, customized to the theme of their workshop.
- Available Wednesday - Monday, 9:30 am - 3:30 pm
- Discounted rates for groups of 15 - 54
- Adults - $17, Seniors - $16, Students - $14
- One complimentary pass per 15 paying visitors
- Groups of less than 15 can reserve for a flat fee of $255
Current workshop offerings include...
- Medical Care in Prison — Learn about the intersection of health, justice, and humanity while exploring the Hospital Block. Reflect on the realities of medical care in prisons past and present. Complements science, civics, and social studies curricula.
- Religion in Prison* — Reflect on the profound ways religion serves as a source of resilience, hope, and transformation for people navigating incarceration. Engage in thought-provoking discussions in the Catholic Chaplain’s Office and Synagogue focused on the role of religion in the pursuit of justice. Complements religion, civics, social studies, and humanities curricula. [* Prior to booking, please see accessibility note below.]
- Eighth Amendment: Cruel and Unusual Punishment — Engage in thought-provoking discussions about the origins of solitary confinement in the United States. Students will: grapple with the complexities of balancing punishment, with justice, rehabilitation and human rights, share their insights on ethical dilemmas surrounding cruel and unusual punishment, participate in empathy-building exercises that focuser deeper understanding for those impacted by punitive measures. Complements civics, social studies, and law curricula.
Book Your School Group Tour or Workshop
Please complete and submit this online form or contact Francine Schiffman (Senior Manager, Group Sales and Events) at [email protected].
*Accessibility Note: While the majority of the penitentiary complex is ADA compliant, because Eastern State is nearly 200 years old and is a National Historic Landmark, sections of the site may never be fully accessible. The two areas highlighted during this workshop may not be accessible to visitors using mobility aids such as wheelchairs. There is a small step to access the Synagogue and adjoining exhibit, and the Catholic Chaplain’s Office has narrow doorframes and tight corners, which may be difficult or impossible to navigate for wheelchair users. If you have questions or would like to discuss this further before booking, please email [email protected].
