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.
Hours of Operation
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is currently open Wednesday through Monday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
From November 26, 2024 through January 1, 2025, the historic site will be open every day from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. We will be closed on the following holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Become a Member
Revisit the past. Rethink the future. Members support the work we do every day and receive exclusive benefits like free daytime admission, special discounts, Halloween Nights perks, and more!
November 25, 2024, 10:00 am – December 1, 2024, 5:00 pm
Thanksgiving at ESPHS
Included with admission. November 25 - December 1. (Site closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 28.) Join us for special guided Soup Alley tours that incorporate new research from the Pennsylvania Prison Society about the status of food service throughout the state’s prison system. Learn more
Photo of the Week
This week's photo by @sinkinson.photography.
Share your photos on Instagram and tag @easternstatepen for a chance to be featured.
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.
