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Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia, PA

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Eastern State Penitentiary

Eastern State Penitentiary is an attraction in Philadelphia, PA, part of the Philadelphia guide. Cost: under $25.

2027 Fairmount Ave · Philadelphia, PA

Why you should go…

This hauntingly beautiful Gothic fortress pioneered solitary confinement and once held Al Capone in a cell furnished with oriental rugs and a radio. Today its crumbling, sky-lit cellblocks make for one of the most atmospheric audio tours in America. Around Halloween, the prison transforms into one of the country's most famous haunted attractions.

  • #prison
  • #history
  • #audio tour
  • #halloween
  • #fairmount

Maps and brochures

Eastern State Penitentiary: brochureEastern State Penitentiary: brochureEastern State Penitentiary: brochure

What's around here?

The closest stops to Eastern State Penitentiary, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

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    Run the Rocky Steps, then wander one of America's greatest art collections behind that famous neoclassical facade.

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    Barnes Foundation

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    Renoirs and Matisses hung floor-to-ceiling exactly as Dr. Barnes arranged them, an art experience unlike any other.

    0.5 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums

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    1.2 mi awayMore like this

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    Betsy Ross House

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    1.8 mi awayMore like this

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    Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

    Under $25

    Isaiah Zagar's dazzling half-block mosaic labyrinth on South Street, tile, mirror, and bottle art covering every surface.

    1.9 mi awayMore like this

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