Explore the Haunting History of Eastern State Penitentiary
Discover the captivating history and haunting beauty of Eastern State Penitentiary, a unique historical landmark in Philadelphia that tells America's story of incarceration.
Eastern State Penitentiary, a historic prison in Philadelphia, offers tourists a unique glimpse into America's penal history, featuring stunning architecture and engaging exhibits.
A brief summary to Eastern State Penitentiary
- 2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, Fairmount, Pennsylvania, 19130, US
- +1215-236-3300
- Visit website
Local tips
- Plan your visit during weekdays for a less crowded experience.
- Don’t miss the guided audio tour, which includes narratives from former inmates and guards.
- Check the schedule for special events or seasonal exhibits for a unique experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking through uneven surfaces and expansive grounds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and eerie atmosphere.
Getting There
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Car
From Great Valley, get on US-202 S from Great Valley Parkway. Follow US-202 S for approximately 10 miles. Merge onto the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76 E) toward Philadelphia. Continue on I-76 E for about 10 miles. Take exit 40B for US-30 E toward the Ben Franklin Parkway. Continue on the Parkway, then turn left onto Fairmount Avenue. The Eastern State Penitentiary will be on your right at 2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130. Parking may be available nearby, but check for any fees that may apply.
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Public Transportation
From Great Valley, take the SEPTA train from the Great Valley station to the Paoli station (Southwest of Great Valley). From Paoli, transfer to the R5 line towards Philadelphia. Ride to the 69th Street Terminal and transfer to the 104 bus towards 69th Street Terminal. Disembark at the 'Fairmount Ave & 22nd St' stop. Walk 0.3 miles to reach the Eastern State Penitentiary at 2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130. Be aware of bus fares which can vary based on distance.
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Ride-Sharing Service
Use a ride-sharing app like Uber or Lyft. Input your pickup location in Great Valley and set the destination to Eastern State Penitentiary at 2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130. The ride will take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Expect to pay a variable fare based on demand and distance.
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