Eastern State Penitentiary

Come explore Eastern State Penitentiary with us!

     As stated on their website, “Eastern State Penitentiary was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, but stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. 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. Its vaulted, sky-lit cells held nearly 85,000 people over its long history, including bank robber “Slick Willie” Sutton and “Scarface” Al Capone. ” This venue is sure to bring out the creative photographer in us all! We will meet at the entrance at which point you’ll get an mp3 player and headphones that will guide you through the penitentiary complex and explain the prison’s history. This self-guided audio tour takes approximately 40  minutes.

Admission

     It is recommended that you purchase your tickets online in advance to take advantage of the savings.  Prices are as follows: 1. Online Tickets: $21 adults or $19 seniors  2. Tickets at the Door: $23 for adults or $21 seniors.

***In addition, if you choose to use a tripod, you must purchase a photography equipment pass aka “tripod fee” in the amount of $10. These passes are only available at the door the day of the meet-up and grant you permission to use a tripod in the penitentiary.

Parking

     There is a parking lot neighboring ESP at 22nd St & Fairmount Ave. Parking costs vary. For exact pricing, please call Parkway Corporation at (267) 765-3665. Also, there is free parallel parking bordering ESP on 22nd St and Brown St, but ONLY on the ESP side of the road.

***Please visit their website for more information on this venue. https://www.easternstate.org/

Join us for lunch afterward at (a restaurant within walking distance) and be sure to click the “Attend Lunch” button on your registration so we can have a head count for reservations.