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.
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, invitations to members-only experiences, special discounts, and more!
Select nights, Sept 22 - Nov 11
Halloween Nights
Step through Eastern State's massive front gate and into an immersive Halloween festival featuring five haunted houses plus historic tours, themed bars and lounges, live entertainment, and more!
Make a Gift
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Help us to preserve this National Historic Landmark and advance our mission to interpret the legacy of criminal justice reform in America.
September 18, 2023, 12:00 pm – 12:45 pm
Constitution Day 2023: The 8th Amendment - Cruel and Unusual Punishment
Join Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site for a free, online Constitution Day program exploring the Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and its intersection with the nation’s criminal legal system. Learn more
What We're Reading
"The Dungeons & Dragons players of Death Row" written by Keri Blakinger for the New York Times, August 31, 2023.
Pic of the Week
Share your best Eastern State photos on Instagram for a chance to be featured. Be sure to tag us @easternstate! This week's photo by @miahs.pov.
