The Eastern State Penitentiary is a foreboding-looking place at the best of times and may not seem like an obvious choice for tourists. Don't be put off – this is one of Philadelphia's most original and insightful attractions. The prison was constructed in 1829 and at the time was the most expensive in the world. Interestingly, life wasn't as harsh for prisoners as you might think. Cells were flooded with natural light, while gardens were provided outside. The ultimate aim of the Eastern State Penitentiary was not to punish, but to reform.
An audio tour, narrated by Steve Buscemi, is available. It's recommended that you take this, as it provides extra insight, not to mention atmosphere, to your visit. There's also a 60-minute guided walking tour of the penitentiary in the winter months.
The prison covers a big area, and you should allow yourself a couple of hours to take everything in. After finally closing in the early 1970s, the prison wasn't drastically altered. This means that it's still possible to get a genuine feel of what life was like for prisoners. Among highlights of the sprawling complex are a synagogue, chapel, baseball diamond, hospital, exercise yard and death row.
In the late 1920s, various thieves and gangsters, including Scarface, did time within these walls. Another visitor favourite is the cell in which Capone was once held. The luxuriousness of it might surprise you.
The Eastern State Penitentiary likes to keep its visitors entertained with a range of special initiatives and activities. “Hands-On History” allows you to open, close and lock various gates and cell doors. Prison-themed art is also often featured. For those who enjoy being spooked, come to the Eastern State Penitentiary during the Halloween period for the special Terror Behind the Walls tour.
The Eastern State Penitentiary is on Fairmount Avenue. It is open every day for most of the year. Phlash sightseeing buses stop here, as well as various other public transport services.
