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365 days
Daily Tour
15 people
English
Discover the historic building of the Eastern State Penitentiary which stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Learn about how when Eastern State opened more than 180 years ago, it changed the world of prisons and was copied throughout the world.
Known for its grand architecture and strict discipline, this was the world’s first true “penitentiary,” a prison designed to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of prisoners. Discover how the building itself was an architectural wonder; it had running water and central heat before the White House. Marvel at the vaulted, sky-lit cells which once held many of America’s most notorious criminals, including bank robber “Slick Willie” Sutton and Al Capone.
As you explore the building, listen to ‘The Voices of Eastern State’ audio tour which is included in your admission price. Narrated by actor Steve Buscemi (known for Boardwalk Empire, Fargo, Armageddon, and Ghost World), this rich, stereo soundscape mixes dozens of voices. Hear the stories of 3 former wardens and 25 guards and inmates which create an atmospheric tour as you stroll through Eastern State’s cellblocks and yards.
When you arrive, receive an MP3 player and headset that will guide you through the penitentiary complex and explain the prison’s history. This audio guide contains a main audio route, plus additional stops for subjects like escapes, riots, sports, sexuality, and more. You are free to tour at your own pace and to listen to (or skip) stops based on your interests. Also discover interactive experiences, history exhibits, and a critically acclaimed series of artist installations.
Last update: 02-24-2023
Tour Code: SHWT-USA-0088 |
Not recommended for children under the age of 7 as the building is in a state of semi-ruin and can pose safety hazards to unattended children
This tour operates rain or shine; the building does not have climate control so please dress for the weather
Be sure to wear appropriate footwear
Eastern State Penitentiary offers a wide range of accessibility services
Children under 7 years
Weather-appropriate clothing
Unaccompanied minors
You can cancel your Tour order within 48 hours before the start of the tour activity for a full refund.
If you cancel your order less than 48 hours before the start date of the Tour Experience, the amount you paid will not be reimbursed.
Any request for changes made less than 48 hours before the start of the Tour experience will not be accepted.
The time base is considered the one of the Tour experience local time.
What is the security of face masks and attendee health during Eastern state penitentiary admission in USA?
Reply: The staff will make temperature check for travelers upon arrival.
What about sanitization during the Eastern state penitentiary admission in USA?
Reply: Both the tour staff and travelers are supplied with hand sanitizer gel; the same sanitization applies to the equipment used during the tour experience.
What about social distancing during the Eastern state penitentiary admission in USA?
Reply: The tour experience applies for Social distancing with respect to what it’s indicated by the Ministry of Health.
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