Eastern State Penitentiary is a former prison in Philadelphia, PA that was in use from 1829 until 1971. This intimidating structure was once used to force criminals to seek penance, and now is a national historic landmark that is open to the public 10am – 5pm, 7 days a week.

As you will learn from the tour materials, Eastern State was a fearsome place whose architecture was built with the purpose of mentally and physically isolating prisoners so that they would be forced to dwell on their crimes. While there are no longer any prisoners, this purpose is quite evident to all who visit.

There were a few famous criminals incarcerated here, the most famous of whom was probably Al Capone. Here’s a shot of his luxurious cell:

Speaking of Al Capone, Eastern State Penitentiary is said to be one of the most haunted places in the United States and Capone was rumored to have been troubled by spirits in his cell. A number of “ghost hunter” television shows have filmed episodes here.

Visiting Eastern State Penitentiary

Eastern State is located at 21^st Street & Fairmont Avenue, Philadelphia, PA. If you plan on driving, there is a lot right next to the prison. The ESP website has a print-able page of driving directions. The prison is also accessible via bus and trolley.

Eastern State is open from 10 am – 5 pm, 7 days a week. Many outdoor areas are closed in the winter. During the summer, hours are extended to 8 pm (you must enter by 7 pm) on Wednesdays for a twilight tour. Guided tours are available, however I suggest you take the self-guided audio tour so that you are free to wander and stop wherever you please.

Gear

Eastern State Penitentiary is a dark place. I shot the entire prison at midday and jumped around between 500 and 1600 ISO. Fast lenses (wide apertures), image stabilization and short focal lengths will all be very useful.

Wide angles are very useful for putting emphasis on the expanse of Eastern State. Although it is a large building, hallways and cells are tight and you may end up with your back to the wall more than a few times. I used my Canon EF 24mm f/1.4L lens almost exclusively.

Tripods and monopods are permitted but may require an additional entrance fee. I saw many tripods in use, and even spoke to another photographer who was working on some HDR shots of the prison. For complete details, read the Eastern State Penitentiary photography policy.

Commercial and model shots, and anything with equipment more extensive than a single tripod or monopod requires special permits.

Worth the visit

Eastern State Penitentiary is quite photogenic. In particular, photographers interested in desolate, abandoned and dark imagery will have a field day here. The structure is large, dark and frightening. It’s also huge — we dropped by for a “quick visit” and spent three hours wandering the penitentiary.

In addition to the prison itself, there are also a number of art exhibits found throughout the complex.