A field trip to Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is an experience that allows your students to learn history and become engaged in historic inquiry. Through an interactive tour, students will use Eastern State Penitentiary’s 142-year history as a lens to examine the larger story of American History. Complementary lesson plans are also available.
Class tours are tailored to the grade level or college year of your group. When you are booking your tour, please let us know what your students are currently studying, their education level, and if you have specific interests, such as religious influence, architecture, criminal justice or escapes. Our school tours are designed to address a variety of academic standards for elementary through high school students .
Although private group tours are available throughout the year at Eastern State Penitentiary, cold weather can make winter and early spring tours a very chilling experience. We recommend group tours between April 1 and November 30.
Recommended for students 10 years of age and older. Tours are not recommended for children under the age of seven (7). Led by a member of our guide staff. Limited to groups of 15 to 125. One hour.
NOTE: Your class may qualify for a bus scholarship. Click here for details.
Book Your Tour
Please complete and submit the form below, or contact our Group Sales Department at grouptours@easternstate.org or (215) 236-5111 x240 to book your group tour. A minimum of one week's notice is required to book guide-led tours; however, capacity is limited and tours are subject to availability. Morning tours sell out quickly. Please book early for best availability.
Please Note: Submission of this form is NOT your reservation confirmation. You will receive an email confirming your request within two business days and a written confirmation in the mail concerning your booking. If you do not receive an email within two business days, please call the number listed above.
This form is for groups of 15 or more people. Groups of 14 or fewer may visit during our regular season without a reservation.