Learn. Discuss. Share.
Through online programs and videos, you’ll hear from experts, justice-impacted individuals, youth, and the public to foster a deeper understanding of the evolution and impacts of the justice system and justice reform in America. Together, we’ll build connections, community, and conversation, inspiring a more just future.
PUBLIC PROGRAMS
Justice 101
Justice 101 is a discussion series examining the history of the justice system in America, from its founding to today, and the impact it has on society, citizens, and the world. Join us live for an upcoming program or watch back recordings of previous discussions, like the history of solitary confinement, restorative justice, prison labor, and more.
LEARN MOREEDUCATIONAL VIDEOS
Unlocking History
What was life like for women at Eastern State Penitentiary? What’s it like to return home after incarceration? How have prison sports programs changed over time? Unlocking History is a video series that examines the stories of everyday people and their lives at Eastern State Penitentiary and in prisons today.
LEARN MOREHistory of Eastern State Penitentiary
Eastern State Penitentiary opened in 1829, becoming America’s first penitentiary. What did that mean, exactly, and how did it change the world?
Visit the Historic Site
Experience ESPHS your way – with an audio tour, a guide-led tour, or a self-guided exploration – all included with admission.
AUDIO TOUR:
Narrated by Steve Buscemi and featuring the voices of people who lived and worked at Eastern State Penitentiary, the audio tour takes you on a journey through the history and legacy of ESP. Audio Tour admission also includes Mini Tours, exhibits, and art installations. Available every day from 10 am to 5 pm (last entry 4 pm).
GUIDE-LED TOUR:
This 45-minute tour is led by an Eastern State educator and explores ESP's complex history, its ongoing relevance to contemporary social issues, and sets the stage for conversation about the role of prisons in society today. Guide-Led Tour admission also includes Mini Tours, exhibits, and art installations. Available at 12:00 pm on weekdays and at 11:00 am every Saturday and Sunday. Availability is limited.
WEDNESDAY NIGHTS:
With a different theme each week, Wednesday Nights provide a fun and meaningful night out—combining history, culture, and entertainment in a one-of-a-kind setting. Admission includes immersive experiences, behind-the-scenes access, and entry to The Fair Chance Beer Garden. Available Wednesdays through July 2, 5:30 to 9:30 pm (last entry 9 pm).
Upcoming Justice Education Events
Justice 101
Monday, September 01 - Friday, July 31, 2026
Join us as we dive into some of the most pressing issues in criminal justice today, through a historical lens and with a focus on civic education. Each program includes interactive online or in-person elements, expert voices, and opportunities for community dialogue. Powered by the Eastern State Center for Justice Education.
Justice 101: Reconstruction and the Origins of Modern Incarceration
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Online only. This program explores how postwar reforms, shifting labor systems, and emerging state and local policies influenced patterns of incarceration and social order in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
Justice 101: Prison Gerrymandering
Thursday, March 05, 2026
All Day
Date and details to be confirmed—please check back for updates. Join us for a conversation on prison gerrymandering, a practice that distorts our democratic process and dilutes the political power of communities across the nation.
Civic Learning Week
Sunday, March 08 - Friday, March 13, 2026
Designed for students (6-12th grade), educators, policymakers, and community leaders to collectively raise awareness and promote civic education across the United States.
Justice 101: The Business of Second Chances: Economic Empowerment for Justice-Involved Women
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
5:30pm - 7:30pm
Free. In honor of Reentry and Restorative Justice Day, join us for a conversation on the challenges and opportunities for women as they reenter society post-incarceration.
Scout Days
Sunday, March 15 - Sunday, March 15, 2026
Led by our engaging staff, all Scout Days participants will enjoy interactive discussions and activities. Members of Scouting America and Girl Scouts of the USA will also meet badge requirements.
Virtual Scout Day
Sunday, March 15, 2026
All Day
Led by our expert staff and partners with expertise in historic preservation, architecture, and construction trades, scouts will enjoy a full day of virtual, interactive discussions and activities.
Justice 101: From Rosa Parks to Joan Little: A screening and conversation about Civil Rights and Criminal Justice Education
Thursday, April 16, 2026
5:30pm - 7:30pm
Free event. Advance registration required. Join us for a screening of the documentary “Free Joan Little” followed by a discussion with director Yoruba Richen.
In Person Scout Day
Sunday, April 19, 2026
10:00am - 4:30pm
Led by our engaging staff, all In-Person Scout Day participants will enjoy interactive discussions and activities. Members of Scouting America and Girl Scouts of the USA will also meet badge requirements.
Justice 101: Philly Saves: Adaptive Reuse of Sites of Memory and Trauma
Friday, May 01, 2026
All Day
Date to be confirmed—please check back for updates. This discussion examines how we steward the physical legacy of our democracy, including prisons, churches, burial grounds, homes, shopping centers, and factories and how these sites can be reclaimed as spaces of civic dialogue, healing, and community life
Justice 101: The History and Meaning of Juneteenth Today
Monday, June 01, 2026
All Day
Date and details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.
Justice 101: The History of the Justice System in England and America
Wednesday, July 01, 2026
All Day
Date and details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.
Justice 101: School to Prison Pipeline
Tuesday, September 01, 2026
All Day
Date and details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.
In Person Scout Day
Saturday, November 14, 2026
All Day
Led by our engaging staff, all In-Person Scout Day participants will enjoy interactive discussions and activities. Members of Scouting America and Girl Scouts of the USA will also meet badge requirements. Details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.