Up the Scares With Eastern State’s VIP Package

When it comes to Halloween in Philadelphia, those who crave screams and scares head to Eastern State Penitentiary’s Terror Behind the Walls. Voted the top haunted house in the nation, the National Historical Landmark and abandoned jail which once housed criminals like Al Capone makes the perfect backdrop for fear-filled fun. But if the annual event has gotten old, or you need a little more to get your heart racing, check out some of the new ways you can enhance the experience.

Sign up for the VIP After Dark package — if you dare — and begin your evening outside of the haunted house with a tour of the jail by flashlight. Peer through the darkness and see the deteriorating cellblocks, Death Row, Al Capone’s cell and the underground isolation cells under Cellblock 14. When you head back out into the night, you’ll be escorted to the front of the line for Terror Behind the Walls.

If you think you’ll be less spooked with a good meal behind you (or a few drinks in you) check out the Fright and Bite dinner packages being offered in conjunction with Fairmount area restaurants. Illuminare, Trio BYOB, Mugshots, Jack’s Firehouse, London Grill, Rembrandt’s, The Belgian Grill and McCrossen’s Tavern have all gotten in on the fun and are offering themed three-course meals with options like Lamb Shank Redemption and Buried Alive in Chocolate. Packages also include priority entry to the haunted house.

Extra tricks or an added treat. Either way, you’ll be in high spirits.

The VIP tour is limited to 15 people per tour group. Tickets are $99 per person. Check the Ticketmaster website for available tour times. The Firght and Bite packages are available through reservations at participating restaurants; prices vary. For more information on all attractions, visit www.easternstate.org/halloween.