Eastern State Penitentiary was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, but today stands in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cell blocks and empty guard towers. Located in Philadelphia, its vaulted, sky-lit cells once held many of America’s most notorious lawbreakers, including Al “Scarface” Capone, William “Slick Willie” Sutton, and James “Big Joe” Bruno. A U.S. National Historic Landmark, the Penitentiary features many award-winning exhibits, art installations, and guided tours, all of which are a fascinating way to explore the legacy of criminal justice reform, as well as the history and root causes of mass incarceration.
