Historical Sites
Once you’ve arrived, you’ll discover that getting around is easy and affordable. As one of the most walkable cities in the nation, everything you need for an unforgettable visit is just outside your doorstep. In the heart of the city is Independence National Historical Park, America’s Most Historic Square Mile, and home to the Liberty Bell Center, Independence Hall, National Museum of American Jewish History, President’s House, National Constitution Center, Independence Visitor Center and much more. Easy-to-navigate streets, helpful maps and downtown ambassadors are all here to make any visit to Philadelphia welcoming, warm and simple.
We’re a city of neighborhoods where the flavors, sights and sounds of the world are available. Come be a part of the Philadelphia story, its one you simply can’t miss.
Independence National Historical Park
The most historic square mile in the U.S.A., it was here that a group of colonists first got together to plan their independence from the King of England, which resulted in many battles between the colonists and the British, and ultimately, the birth of the U.S.A. as a separate nation. Sites in the park include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Carpenters' Hall, and many more notable landmarks.
The Liberty Bell
The most famous bell in the world arrived in Philadelphia in 1752 for the new Pennsylvania State House, now known as Independence Hall. Before it could be installed, a crack was found and the bell was recast by two Philadelphia craftsmen, John Stowe and John Pass. The bell tolled to gather the citizens of Philadelphia, including for the first reading of the Declaration of Independence. The last time the bell was rung was on George Washington's birthday in 1846. Although it remained silent, the Liberty Bell became a symbol of freedom and independence for generations of Americans and for many around the world.
Independence Hall
Built between 1732 and 1756 as the Pennsylvania State House, this is the site where the Declaration of Independence (modeled after the Magna Carta) was first adopted and the United States Constitution was written. Next to Independence Hall is Congress Hall, where the United States Senate and the United States House of Representatives met from 1790 to 1800, when Philadelphia was the nation's capital. On the other side of Independence Hall is Old City Hall, the historical home of the United States Supreme Court from 1791 to 1800. Free tours are available with timed tickets, which can be obtained on the day of the visit at the Independence Visitor Center (Sixth and Market sts.), or in advance at www.reservation.nps.gov.
Carpenters’ Hall
This beautiful Georgian structure was built from 1770-1774 for the Carpenters' Guild. The First Continental Congress met here in 1774 and the building served as a hospital during the Revolutionary War. Today, the first floor is open to the public with exhibits.
Second Bank of the United States
Built in the Greek Revival-style, the 19th-century bank is now a portrait gallery housing paintings of the leaders and politicians of Colonial U.S.A.
Franklin Court
The site of Benjamin Franklin's home now houses a steel "ghost structure" of Franklin's house, the U.S.A.'s first post office, archeological displays and an 18th-century printing shop. One of Philadelphia's most famous colonial statesmen and inventors, Franklin spent long periods of time in England where he broadened and balanced his views of science, politics, and foreign affairs. He also had a house in London (which still stands) at 36 Craven Street.
