We were fortunate to visit Philadelphia several years ago now representing The Nassau Institute at an Atlas Economic Research Foundation event, and we visited the Eastern State Penitentiary. Suffice it to say that it was one of the weirdest, yet intriguing places I've ever visited.

Here's a brief bit form their web site:

"Eastern State Penitentiary was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, but stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers.

"Known for its grand architecture and strict discipline, this was the world’s first true “penitentiary,” a prison designed to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of convicts.

"Its vaulted, sky-lit cells once held many of America’s most notorious criminals, including bank robber “Slick Willie” Sutton and Al Capone.

If you are ever in Philly, I highly recommend a visit. Be prepared to be amazed, shocked, amused, taken aback, yet wanting to see more of the place. Visit their web site here…