Eastern State Penitentiary451

Maybe, at first glance, this wouldn't seem like a top choice for a place to visit with the kids...but if, like ours, your little ones are fascinated by police, good guys, bad guys, and dungeons, Eastern State Penitentiary is a pretty cool stop.

Some of America's most notorious criminals were held in the penitentiary's vaulted, sky-lit cells, including bank robber Willie Sutton and Al Capone. (Check out Capone's luxurious digs!) After 142 years of consecutive use, the prison was completely abandoned in 1971.

The penitentiary also offers Hands-On History interactive experiences. The short, hands-on demonstrations, each lasting five minutes or less, are lead by expert Eastern State tour guides at locations throughout the penitentiary complex.

During the month of October, the prison dresses up as a haunted house, making good use of its crumbling walls, rusting cell doors, and vaulted corridors. Tickets are available by reservation; visit the penitentiary's website for details.

The penitentiary is open year-round; guided tours are available December through March. Please note the penitentiary is not recommended for children under age seven.