A Terrifying Tour Of This Haunted Prison In Philadelphia Is Not For The Faint Of Heart
Once the most expensive and notorious prison in the world, Eastern State Penitentiary now stands in ruin, on display as an empty, haunted relic that offers tours of its cell blocks and a history that will send chills down any visitors’ spine. It was the very first penitentiary, designed to inspire true regret in those who were captured behind their walls. You can visit for a daytime tour and learn about the horrors that the inmates experienced, or you can visit after dark for a truly terrifying experience.
Considered the very first true penitentiary in the world, Eastern State opened on October 25, 1829. It is considered by many to be one of the most haunted places in the United States, with it’s cellblocks being known for strange sounds, sights, and paranormal happenings.
Eastern State's new system of incarceration was called the "Pennsylvania System", which involved keeping inmates separate and having the warden visit each daily.
The history of the prison is filled with suicide, torture, and murder. The Mad Chair was a form of punishment that led to inmates losing limbs, an iron gag tore inmates tongues, and inmates were dunked in water and left outside to freeze in the harsh Philadelphia winters.
Legendary gangster Al Capone was one of the notorious inmates held at Eastern State Penitentiary. Also known as Scarface, Capone was one of the most well known American crime bosses, leading the Chicago mafia during Prohibition for seven years.
Eastern State Penitentiary is open for tours seven days a week, year round. Explore the cellblocks and learn about the history of this facility and its relevance today.
Along with the historic daytime tours, Eastern State opens its doors for "Terror Behind the Walls", a haunted, spooky prison tour. Terror Behind the Walls includes six creepy attractions, covering prison history and aiming to scare those who are brave enough to walk through the attraction.
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is located at 22nd Street and Fairmount Avenue. The daytime tours are open from 10 AM - 5 PM and admission includes historic exhibits and art displays. Terror Behind the Walls is open several days a week through the beginning of November.
Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
