Eastern State Penitentiary, cellblock one. Photo by Lily Landes.

A Haunted Walk-through of the Eastern State Penitentiary

Clayton Blaine Allen
The Philly Melting Pot

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Historically, it’s widely believed the Eastern State Penitentiary is truly haunted. As the eve of Oct. 31 approaches, it’s time to start thinking about the Halloween plans. Below is a complete guide of the available options inside the halls of the Eastern State Penitentiary.

Terror Behind the Walls

The abandoned prison, located in Philadelphia’s Fairmount neighborhood, hosts the annual Terror Behind the Walls. It’s a thrill-seeking experience that features six different attractions within the building.

Infirmary

Infirmary is a haunted-walk along the medical wing of the prison. Thrill-seekers get an inside look at the prison medical treatments, such as shock therapy and hydrotherapy, gone wrong.

Machine Shop

Visitors walk deep into the cell blocks of the abandoned building. Guests have to walk through a forgotten machine shop.

Lock Down

Inmates take over the exhibit for this attraction. All guards have lost control and you’re on your own.

Break Out!

Inmates are everywhere in this attraction. The goal is simple — escape.

Quarantine 4D

A 4D-experience challenges visitors to endure their fears. A room with flat walls jump out at viewers.

Blood Yard

A campyard full of butchers and warriors threaten to make guests their next victim in the newest addition to the experience. Loud and fast-paced action ensure a thrill.

Location & Tickets

The Eastern State Penitentiary is located on 22nd Street and Fairmount Avenue.

Buying tickets online is recommended, but they are also available for purchase at the door. To pre-order your tickets for any of the events, check out the official Eastern State Penitentiary website.

Safety Tips

For those worried about the experience, here are a few safety tips to ensure a good time.

  1. Actors can only interact with you if you give them permission. If you mark yourself, you can be grabbed, held back, and even removed from your friends. You can subject yourself to this, or you can simply watch.
  2. The environment features some characteristics that can affect pacemakers along with other medical devices. Those prone to seizures are advised to take necessary precautions. Pregnant women are recommended to consult with their physician prior to attending. If you have asthma, please bring an inhaler.
  3. Guests are required to sign a waiver before attending.

More Information

Check out the official Eastern State Penitentiary Website for more information on schedules, attractions, and for some history on the exhibit.

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