Explore an American First
Step inside the world’s first penitentiary, a bold 19th century experiment in justice reform. With architectural, social, and historical significance, Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site harnesses the power of place to deepen our collective understanding of the American justice system and inspire us to consider how we can build a more just future together.
Discover. Discuss. Share.
Every visit to Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is unique! ESPHS offers a variety of tours, exhibits, programs, and other dynamic ways to engage with this iconic site’s powerful history and reflect on the impact of the justice system.
Experience ESPHS your way – with an audio tour, a guide-led tour, or a self-guided exploration – all included with admission.
Visiting with 15 people or more? Interested in a private Guide-Led Tour? Learn more about Group Visits.
100% of ticket sales proceeds go directly to benefit our mission.
Included with Admission
Audio Tour
Explore at your own pace with a narrated tour featuring voices from the penitentiary’s past.
Guide-Led Tour
Join an educator for a deep dive into the penitentiary’s history and modern-day relevance.
Mini Tours
Take a quick detour to experience unique spaces and topics in 20 minutes or less.
Art
View powerful art that illuminates history and explores incarceration today.
Exhibits
Engage with exhibits that connect our legacy to today’s criminal justice system.
Plan your visit!
Get ready to experience Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site. Learn more about what to bring, where to go, and how to make the most of your visit.
Know Before You GoUpcoming Historic Site Events
Justice 101: Songs of Redemption: Stories, Music, and the Struggle for Justice
Thursday, December 18, 2025
6:00pm - 8:00pm
Free event. Advance registration required. Join us for an evening of music, storytelling, and reflection as we celebrate the rededication of Eastern State’s historic synagogue. Presented as part of The Aaron Reichlin Restorative Justice and Faith Conversations.
Shared Light: Winter Celebrations at Eastern State
Saturday, December 20 - Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Through historical accounts, guided tours, and hands-on activities, learn how people at Eastern State Penitentiary marked holidays like Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year’s Day—finding moments of light, connection, and meaning within the confines of prison life.
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Winter Celebrations Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, December 20, 2025
All Day
Complete this winter celebrations scavenger hunt to receive an exclusive sticker prize.
Mini Tour: Chaplain’s Office Murals
Saturday, December 20, 2025
All Day
Join an Educator for a 10-minute exploration of the preserved Chaplain’s Office
Winter Celebrations Guide-Led Tour & Discussion
Saturday, December 20, 2025
All Day
Our guide-led tour will include additional content about winter celebrations at Eastern State Penitentiary and in prisons today.
Winter Celebrations Hands-On Activities
Saturday, December 20, 2025
All Day
Drop-in hands-on activities inspired by winter celebrations. All materials provided—just bring your creativity!
NEW Mini-Tour: Sacred Spaces in Unlikely Places
Saturday, December 20, 2025
12:03am - 12:03am
Join an Educator for a 10-minute exploration of the history and significance of our synagogue.
Closed for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
Wednesday, December 24, 2025
All Day
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is closed December 24 and 25. We resume normal hours on December 26.
December 2025: ASL Guide-Led Tour and Discussion
Saturday, December 27, 2025
11:00am - 11:45am
Subject to availability. Purchase tickets online to secure your spot. An Eastern State educator leads a Guide-Led Tour and Discussion in partnership with an ASL (American Sign Language) interpreter from Hands UP Productions.
Closed for New Year's Day
Thursday, January 01, 2026
All Day
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is closed January 1. We resume normal hours on January 2. Happy New Year!
Spring Break: Escape and Resistance
Friday, March 27, 2026
All Day
Uncover real accounts of daring escape attempts, test your problem-solving skills in a hands-on challenge, and step back in time to the era of Prohibition through immersive storytelling, live-action challenges, and history reimagined.
Memorial Day Weekend Preservation Fest
Friday, May 22, 2026
All Day
Program details to be announced. Whether you're a history buff, preservation enthusiast, or looking for a meaningful way to honor those who served and sacrificed, Eastern State offers a unique blend of education and remembrance.
Freedom Summer 2026
Thursday, June 11 - Sunday, July 19, 2026
Details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.
Closed for Thanksgiving
Thursday, November 26, 2026
All Day
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is closed for Thanksgiving. We resume normal hours on Friday.