The building is in ruins some places are off limits due to the roof falling in but most of the prison is available to walk around in staff was very helpful and knew a lot about the history of the prison they even let me and my wife open the main gate if we had the time we would of... More

The penitentiary charges a reasonable amount of admisson (14 for adults and 10 for students and children), and is located conviniently close to the meseum of arts. If you are interested in history and would like to see something unique, spend an hour or two there. Ruins of cells and concourses may seem boring at a glance, but be sure... More

After a whole day of touring the sites of Philly, this one was my favorite for sure. We spent almost 3 hours walking around all the cell blocks and going through all the interactive features. I wish the gift shop had a bit more to choose from, but the photos I got to take turned out great!

A prison that was a model for over 300 prisons worldwide? Another truly surprising find. It is easily visited after your visit to the Barnes Foundation...just a short walk North. You will be glad you took the time.

My family and I visited Eastern State Pen. I especially appreciated the audio-tour, which helped the kids remain engaged. We were very glad we made this stop part of our time in Philadelphia. Leave time to do the hands-on activities. My kids loved playing bocce ball in the courtyard. The tour took us about 3 hours. Parking was ample, just... More

if you grew up watching horror movies this is not the place for you. I have still yet to be scared by a haunted house yet. no I did not ever go back

This place was super cool. True, it's falling apart - but so is the coliseum in Rome. Very little has changed (i.e. little has been rehabbed), but you get to see how things *really* were. You can stand in one of the cells (inside and outside part). This prison style became the standard here and in Europe for many years.... More

As a criminal justice professor I have read and taught about this prison for years. To actually visit was a "Bucket List" item I can check off! From the imposing outer walls to the cell blocks, the restored cells and "the hole", Al Capone's cell and the operating room there is so much to explore. The way much of the... More

Great self guided, audio tour for a reasonable price. Bring your law enforcement ID for a discount. Great architecture and history. A must stop in Philadelphia.