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 once held many of America's most notorious lawbreakers, including "Slick Willie" Sutton and "Scarface" Al Capone.
Healthy & Safety
The health and safety of our staff and visitors remains our top priority. Learn more about mask requirements and other measures we have in place to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
NOW OPEN!
Night Tours: Summer Twilight
Explore Eastern State as the sun goes down. Enjoy The Fair Chance Beer Garden and engage with hands-on activities. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, May 7 through September 4.
Give Today
Preserve our past. Invest in the future. Help us craft a long-term strategy to preserve Eastern State's iconic perimeter walls and expand our masonry restoration training programs.
June 20, 2021, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Member Saturday: Sketch Eastern State
Members only. Registration required. Try your hand at drawing Eastern State’s cathedral-like, barrel-vaulted cellblocks with guidance and tips from local artist Dominique Barlow. Learn more
What We're Reading This Week
Indian Affairs Promised To Reform Tribal Jails. We Found Death, Neglect And Disrepair, NPR | Nate Hegyi, Boise State Public Radio, June 10, 2021; Photo: Sharon Chischilly for NPR
Instagram of the Week
Share your best Eastern State photos on Instagram for a chance to be featured! Photo by @lmarie6785.
