What’s New at Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary

The popular Halloween Nights at Philadelphia’s Eastern State Penitentiary returns Friday, Sept. 23 and runs through Nov. 12 on select nights. This year, the annual event features three new attractions and, for the first time since 2019, visitors are able to once again opt in for more scares by allowing actors to touch them and separate them from their group. To do so, pick up a glow necklace at the entrance to any of the haunted houses.

© Courtesy of Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary

“Opting in has been a fan favorite and a rite of passage for many of our visitors, so we’re thrilled to bring that experience back this year,” says Brett Bertolino, vice president and director of operations, Eastern State Penitentiary. “Opting in allows our visitors to customize their experience and amp up the scare factor. But don’t worry, if you need a breather between haunted houses or prefer a less scary experience, Halloween Nights includes plenty of opportunities to enjoy live entertainment or explore our historic tours and exhibits.”

Halloween Nights boasts five haunted houses, live entertainment and themed cars within the 10 acres of Eastern State Penitentiary’s abandoned cellblocks and yards. Nighttime historic tours and museum experiences are also on offer.

© Courtesy of Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary

This year brings two new haunted houses and an immersive themed bar. In Nightmares, guests come face-to-face with creatures from the corners of their most unsettling dreams, while Big Top Terror visits a twisted carnival. Find drinks and light fare at Bizarre Bar, with fire dancers, knife throwers and other acts.

Tickets, starting at $34, are on sale now.