Eastern State Penitentiary
Eastern State Penitentiary is a Gothic Revival former prison located in Philadelphia, opened in 1829. It pioneered the Pennsylvania System of solitary confinement. It once housed infamous criminals such as Al Capone. Today, it functions as a museum and historic site, exploring the history of the penal system.
Address: 2027 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Phone: (215) 236-3300
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Eastern State Nears Fundraising Goal to Open New Center, Pursue Exhibit Upgrades
Eastern State Penitentiary has met 90 percent of its fundraising goal to construct a new center and upgrade its interior ahead of the nation’s 250th…
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The Montgomery County Prison in Norristown is a Monument to Architectural History
Norristown is home to the castle-like Montgomery County Prison. Pamela W. Reilly reflects on the historic structure in Pennsylvania Heritage. The prison was built in…
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Chilling Thrills Await at These Haunted Attractions in Philadelphia
We are officially in the spooky season, and these local haunted attractions are perfect for those brave enough to embrace the thrills of Halloween, writes…
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Philadelphia Leadership: Jamila Winder, Chair, Montgomery County Board of Commissioners
Jamila Winder, Montgomery County Commissioner and Chair, spoke with PHILADELPHIA Today about growing up in East Norriton with parents who instilled ambition and work ethic…
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Eastern State Penitentiary Launches New Spring Break Exhibit Focused on Sports and Recreation
Eastern State Penitentiary, heralded as the world’s first true penitentiary, has reframed its reputation from what it was more than 180 years ago. The historic…
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WSJ: Why Eastern State Penitentiary Became a Popular Wedding Venue in Philadelphia
In 2021, Christina Spence and her husband Ricky Scalia eloped and got married at Eastern State Penitentiary and it had to do with the fact…
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Eastern State Penitentiary Ranked Second Most Haunted Place in the World
Eastern State Penitentiary is visited by thousands of tourists each year, and recently added a new distinction as the world’s second most haunted place in…
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Philadelphia a Stop on Scenic Amtrak Route That Starts in Miami
Amtrak’s Silver Star route, which passes through Philadelphia, is the perfect way to tour around the country and enjoy the peak fall foliage season to…


































