Western Penitentiary

3001 Beaver Avenue | 10 am – 4 pm

YOUR EXPERIENCE

Meet us for an “exterior” look-and-learn experience. A docent will be on-site to share historical and anecdotal information about this fabled building. Learn how, at the time of its completion, it was the most expensive and modern prison in the world, and how it came to be closed in 2017.

ABOUT THIS BUILDING

Western State Penitentiary is a former Pennsylvania state prison, originally constructed between 1878 and 1893 on the east banks of the Ohio River.

Thousands of convicted persons through the years have lived and worked in this sprawling 21-acre, high-walled, barb-wired facility within the city of Pittsburgh. Although part of Pittsburgh’s history, many residents would be hard-pressed to tell you where it is located. Stories of escape, madness, and brutality are part of its legacy.

• Photography Allowed: YES

• Wheelchair-Accessible Entrance: NO

• Public Restrooms: NO

• Wheelchair-Accessible Restrooms: NO

• Photo ID Required: NO

• Proof of COVID Vaccination Required: NO

• Face Coverings Required: NO

• Other: This is an exterior experience only.