Haunted Philadelphia: Visiting Eastern State Penitentiary
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One of the most unique things to do in Philadelphia is to take a tour of the Eastern State Penitentiary.
Eastern State Penitentiary Guide: (Jump To)
Visiting Eastern State Penitentiary
Cost: When purchased online in advance tickets are $21 for adults, $19 for seniors, and $17 for students and children ages 7-12. (In-person tickets at the door are $2 higher than online).
Website: https://www.easternstate.org/
Hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. (With additional evening hours during summer).
Location: Google Map
Eastern State Penitentiary Discount
The best way to visit the Eastern State Penitentiary for free is to become a member of the North American Reciprocal Museum Program (NARM).
History of Eastern State Penitentiary
Eastern State Penitentiary, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a historic prison with a unique and influential history in the development of the modern prison system.
The penitentiary was designed by architect John Haviland and was opened in 1829. It was the first penitentiary of its kind in the world, emphasizing a revolutionary concept known as the "Pennsylvania System." This system was based on the belief that solitary confinement and isolation would lead prisoners to reflect on their actions, experience spiritual transformation, and ultimately reform themselves.
Eastern State Penitentiary: Rebirth as a National Historic Site
Eastern State Penitentiary closed as a functioning prison on January 23, 1971. After its closure, the penitentiary faced a period of neglect and decay as it stood vacant for several decades. The abandoned facility became the subject of urban exploration and drew the attention of photographers, historians, and those interested in the history of penal institutions.
During its period of vacancy, Eastern State Penitentiary's architecture and deteriorating condition attracted both curiosity and concern. Many recognized the historical and architectural significance of the site, leading to efforts to preserve and protect the penitentiary.
In the 1980s and 1990s, restoration and preservation initiatives were launched to safeguard Eastern State Penitentiary's unique architecture and to create a space for educational purposes. The penitentiary was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1994, which marked its official recognition as an important piece of American history.
After undergoing extensive restoration work, Eastern State Penitentiary was reopened to the public as a museum and historic site in 1994. The site offers guided tours, exhibits, and various educational programs that explore the history of the prison system, the architecture of the penitentiary, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding incarceration and punishment.
The museum is preserved in a state of decay shifting focus beyond the physical structure, delving into the broader concepts of criminal justice, rehabilitation, and human rights. The penitentiary's history serves as a platform for discussions on issues such as solitary confinement, prison reform, and the challenges faced by incarcerated individuals.
Eastern State Penitentiary has become an internationally recognized cultural institution that attracts tourists, students, scholars, and anyone interested in understanding the evolution of the prison system and its impact on society.
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What to See at Eastern State Penitentiary
Visiting the Eastern State Prison offers visitors a unique and immersive experience as a historic site and museum.
Audio Tour
Your visit starts with picking up an audio guide. The audio guide is included in the admission price and is available in multiple languages. The audio tour, narrated by actor Steve Buscemi, provides in-depth information about the history, architecture, and stories of the penitentiary. The tour also includes brief stories narrated by actual prisoners and guards who spent time in the prison before it closed permanently. The audio tour allows visitors to explore at their own pace while learning about various aspects of the prison's past.
The main tour lasts about an hour. For those interested the audio tour contains numerous additional tour stops that come with a preloaded audio explanation. This allows visitors to explore the site on their own. Every time a visitor encounters an audio tour icon throughout the museum they can choose to add context by simply typing a number into their audio guide. The audio guide plays a 1-2 minute track to deepen a visitor’s understanding.
Cell Blocks
Explore the cell blocks where inmates were housed. The prison's distinctive radial design allows visitors to walk through corridors with rows of individual cells. Some cells have been restored to reflect their original appearance, while others show the effects of time and decay.
Al Capone's Cell
Visit the cell that housed the infamous gangster Al Capone during his stay at Eastern State Penitentiary. The cell has been restored to its 1920s appearance and includes period furniture.
Art Installations
Throughout the penitentiary, you'll find thought-provoking art installations that engage with the prison's history and its impact on society. These installations often explore themes related to incarceration, justice, and rehabilitation.
Hands-On Activities
Eastern State Penitentiary offers interactive activities and exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about the history of the prison system and the experiences of inmates. These activities can provide a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by both prisoners and the criminal justice system. There is even an opportunity to write letters to people currently incarcerated in other prisons.
Special Events
Throughout the year, Eastern State Penitentiary hosts special events, such as Halloween-themed tours, artist installations, lectures, and discussions about criminal justice reform. These events offer different perspectives on the history and legacy of the penitentiary.
Guided Tours
In addition to the audio tour, you can also take guided tours led by knowledgeable guides who provide detailed insights into the prison's history, architecture, and the stories of its former inmates.
Visit the Eastern State Penitentiary Beer Garden
During the summer, the Fair Chance Beer Garden serves beer from local Philadelphia breweries while offering the chance for visitors to explore the prison. The beer garden is set up in the former exercise yard of the prison. It is a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Historic Architecture
Explore the unique architecture of the Eastern State Penitentiary, with its radial design, castle-like walls, and guard towers. The architecture itself is a reflection of the penitentiary's historical significance.
Reflection and Contemplation
Many visitors find the Eastern State Penitentiary to be a place for reflection and contemplation about the nature of incarceration, justice, and human rights. The site encourages discussions about the ethical and moral aspects of imprisonment.
In Summary
Visiting Eastern State Penitentiary offers a chance to engage with history, architecture, and social issues in a thought-provoking and immersive way. Be sure to put it on your must-see list for Philadelphia.
