Eastern State Penitentiary

Museum • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania United States

Eastern State Penitentiary stands as a hauntingly fascinating museum in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, drawing in travelers and history enthusiasts from all over the world. Once a fearsome prison that held notorious criminals such as Al Capone, this iconic institution has been transformed into a unique tourist attraction that sheds light on the dark chapters of America's penal system.

As visitors step through the imposing gates of Eastern State Penitentiary, they are transported back in time to the early 19th century, where a strict regime of solitude and reflection reigned. The museum offers a detailed look into the harsh conditions that inmates endured, with eerie cell blocks and crumbling corridors providing a glimpse into the bleak reality of prison life.

One of the most striking features of Eastern State Penitentiary is its stunning architecture, with soaring Gothic-style towers and crumbling walls that exude an eerie charm. The prison's design, with its innovative radial floor plan, was once considered revolutionary and became a model for many other penitentiaries around the world.

Through engaging exhibits and informative guided tours, visitors can learn about the history of Eastern State Penitentiary and the impact it had on the evolution of the American prison system. The museum also delves into the stories of the inmates who once called this foreboding institution home, offering a poignant reminder of the human cost of crime and punishment.


Tours for Eastern State Penitentiary

Exploring the area? Book a tour to fully experience everything Eastern State Penitentiary has to offer. A guided tour will provide you with fascinating insights and hidden gems that you might miss on your own.

Halloween Trolley Tour "Terror Beyond the Walls" in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania $50 Tour Provided by Viator

Halloween Trolley Tour "Terror Beyond the Walls"

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania United States

Join City Sightseeing this spooky season and experience Philadelphia’s darker side of history. We will take you on an interactive trolley tour. Our tour guide will take you on a 90-minute journey through Old City in a decorated trolley ready for the Halloween season. We have included two surprise stops along the way for you to get off the trolley and walk around while the tour guide tells you the ghostly stories at the sight you are standing on. We start at Independence mall and continue to other sites including The Arch Street Meeting House, Christ Church Burial Ground, Washington Square Park, The Famous Powel House and many more that will have you looking over your shoulder all evening. We include trivia, games and fun on our BYOB Halloween Trolley Experience. We have these available individual timed tickets for you and your friends. This tour is perfect for group events, family get-togethers, and corporate outings. Don’t miss out on the spooktacular event this Halloween.

Private Half Day Philadelphia Driving Tour with Local Guide in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania $595 Tour Provided by Viator

Private Half Day Philadelphia Driving Tour with Local Guide

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania United States

Experience the sights of Philadelphia with a personal guide on this private, half-day sightseeing tour. Hop in a comfortable minivan (for up to six people) and ride from river to river. See the Historic District, Penn's Landing, the Italian Market, Philadelphia City Hall, the South 9th Street Italian Market, the Rocky Steps at the entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and much more.

Hop-on Hop-off and Philly By Night Tour Combo in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania $68 Tour Provided by Viator

Hop-on Hop-off and Philly By Night Tour Combo

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania United States

Explore the sights and sounds of Philadelphia on board a double-decker, hop-on hop-off bus tour. Visit 27 of the city's top attractions, as a local guide offers live commentary on the points of interest and landmark locations along the way. Popular stops include the Betsy Ross House, the National Constitution Center, the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and many more. Then, see the sights illuminated against the evening sky on the guided, 90 minute, 'Philly by Night' bus tour.

Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania $36 Tour Provided by Viator

Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania United States

Explore Philadelphia on this hop-on hop-off tour! See the top Philadelphia attractions including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and the Betsy Ross House while touring the city in a fun, fast and scenic way. Enjoy a ride on an open-top, double-decker bus, with our Hop on Hop off tour during your stay in Philadelphia.

Hop On Hop Off Double Decker Bus Tour of Philadelphia in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania $39 Tour Provided by Viator

Hop On Hop Off Double Decker Bus Tour of Philadelphia

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania United States

Experience the History! Enjoy the sites of Philadelphia with a live Tour Guide on board our authentic Double Decker Buses. Hop on or Hop off at any of our 27 stops.

Philadelphia Pass: 30+ Things To Do including Philadelphia Zoo in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania $59 Tour Provided by Viator

Philadelphia Pass: 30+ Things To Do including Philadelphia Zoo

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania United States

Save up to 50%* off on entry to Philadelphia's best-known attractions compared to buying individual tickets. With Go City's Philadelphia All-Inclusive Pass, you're in control of your itinerary. Choose between a 1, 2, 3, or 5-day pass and visit as many attractions as you like all with one digital pass. Included is a 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus tour of Philadelphia, Eastern State Penitentiary, Betsy Ross House, The Franklin Institute and much more. Simply sync your pass (delivered as your 'ticket) to the Go City mobile app and show it at each attraction for admission – it's that easy!

*Savings based on sample itineraries on the Go City website.

Go City: Philadelphia Explorer Pass: Choose 3 to 7 Things To Do in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania $64 Tour Provided by Viator

Go City: Philadelphia Explorer Pass: Choose 3 to 7 Things To Do

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania United States

Save money on some of Philadelphia's best-known attractions with Go City's Philadelphia Explorer Pass. Choose 3, 4, 5, or 7 attractions and tours from over thirty options and visit them within 30 calendar days. With Go City you can enjoy direct entry to attractions, simply save your pass on your mobile device (available as your 'ticket' after purchase) and go – no voucher redemption required!

The Philadelphia Sightseeing Day Pass: 35+ Historic Attractions & Tours  in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania $59 Tour Provided by Viator

The Philadelphia Sightseeing Day Pass: 35+ Historic Attractions & Tours

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania United States

Let freedom ring with the Sightseeing Flex Pass, your key to saving over 50% on total visitation costs at over 35 landmark destinations & experiences. Build your pass from 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 days, then visit as many of our partner attractions as you want; make your choices in Philly, and the more you see the more you save!

Immerse yourself in the revolutionary city at iconic attractions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Liberty Bell, the Easter State Penitentiary, and National Liberty Museum. Maneuver your way on Hop-On/Hop-Off bus tours, learn history of Founding Fathers and Mothers, or get spooked with one of many themed walking tours through haunted Philly.

More than just cheesesteaks and soft pretzels, Sightseeing Day Pass holders receive special dining, shopping, and entertainment discounts to Philly’s eclectic culinary and cultural blend.