Article Summary: Philadelphia Landmarks
Philadelphia Landmarks. More Than Just Parks has 15 incredible must-see sites for you to visit.
There’s so much more to this exciting place than the Philadelphia Eagles. In this article, we’ll familiarize you with the incredible landmarks located in the City of Brotherly Love.
We’ve got incredible places, iconic memorials, fascinating museums, epic monuments and so much more.
We’re going to give you our list of the Top 15 Landmarks In Philadelphia.
So, What Is A Landmark?
Well, it’s a place of “a special character or special historical or aesthetic interest or value as part of the development, heritage, or cultural characteristics of a city, state, or nation.”
Why visit these places? Because landmarks connect us to the past. Through visiting these wonderful places where history occurred we find our roots. It allows us to feel like we are a part of something much bigger than ourselves.
And, speaking of history, did I mention that I taught the subject? I spent a lifetime teaching about the history behind many of these amazing sites. Then I got to see them firsthand. And now I’m sharing the fascinating stories of these places with you. It doesn’t get any better than that!
So, without further ado, let’s dive in.
Table Of Contents
Philadelphia Landmarks
Some Interesting Facts About Philadelphia
Here are some interesting facts about the City of Brotherly Love:
- Philadelphia was founded in 1682 by William Penn, who named it after the Greek words for “brotherly love.”
- Philadelphia played a crucial role in the American Revolution. The city served as the temporary capital of the United States while Washington, D.C., was being built.
- Philadelphia is known for its delicious Philly cheesesteak sandwich, which is made with thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese, and sometimes onions, served on a long roll.
- The famous Liberty Bell is located in Philadelphia. It is an iconic symbol of American independence and was rung to announce the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
- The Philadelphia Museum of Art is famous for its “Rocky Steps,” which were featured in the movie “Rocky.” Visitors can run up the steps just like Rocky did in the film.
- Philadelphia is home to the first zoo in the United States, the Philadelphia Zoo, which opened in 1874.
- The Philadelphia Eagles football team won their first Super Bowl championship in 2018, defeating the New England Patriots.
- The city is also famous for its murals, with over 3,000 outdoor murals scattered throughout the city.
- Philadelphia is home to the oldest continuously operating farmers’ market in the United States, the Reading Terminal Market.
- The city is nicknamed “The City of Brotherly Love” and is the fifth-largest city in the United States.
We’re Excited To Share Our List Of The Top 15 Philadelphia Landmarks With YOU
Philadelphia is also the birthplace of the United States, where our Founding Fathers met, discussed, debated and formed a new country. It’s also home to some amazing landmarks. More Than Just Parks is excited to share our list of the Top 15 Philadelphia Landmarks with you.
And we’re kicking off our list at #15 with the American Philosophical Society Museum.
Top 15 Philadelphia Landmarks
15. American Philosophical Society Museum
The American Philosophical Society Museum is dedicated to exploring the intersections between science, history, and art. The museum is part of the American Philosophical Society, which was founded in 1743 by Benjamin Franklin and other intellectuals of the time.
The society was initially established as a way for individuals to meet and discuss scientific and philosophical ideas, and it quickly became an important center for scholarship and research. Over the years, the society has counted many famous scientists, philosophers, and other intellectuals among its members, including: Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Charles Darwin, and Albert Einstein.
The society’s museum was founded in the early 19th century, and it originally focused on natural history and the exploration of the American West. In the years that followed, the museum expanded its collections to include a wide range of scientific and historical artifacts, as well as art and other cultural objects.
Today, the American Philosophical Society Museum features a wide range of exhibits that explore the history of science and the intersection between science, history, and culture. The museum’s collections include everything from fossils and rare books to Native American artifacts and contemporary art.
Over the years, the American Philosophical Society Museum has become an important center for scholarship and research, and it remains an important cultural institution in Philadelphia and beyond.
14. Powel House
Our next Philadelphia landmark is an elegant colonial mansion. At #14 on our list of the Best Philadelphia Landmarks is the Powel House.
The Powel House is a historic mansion located in the Society Hill neighborhood of Philadelphia. The house was built in 1765 by Samuel Powel, a prominent Philadelphia merchant and politician who served as the last mayor of Philadelphia under British rule and the first under American rule.
The Powel House was designed by architect John Carrére in the Georgian style, which was popular in America in the mid-18th century and for those living in Philadelphia. The house features a grand central hall, spacious rooms with high ceilings and large windows, and intricate woodwork and plasterwork details.
During the American Revolution, the Powel House played an important role in the political and social life of Philadelphia. Samuel Powel was a supporter of the Patriot cause and hosted many meetings and gatherings of Revolutionary leaders, including George Washington and John Adams.
The House Was A Center Of Philadelphia Society
After the Revolution, the Powel House continued to be a center of Philadelphia society, hosting many prominent figures of the early Republic, including Thomas Jefferson, the Marquis de Lafayette, and Benjamin Franklin.
In the early 20th century, the Powel House fell into disrepair and was almost demolished. However, it was saved by the Philadelphia Society for the Preservation of Landmarks, which purchased the house in 1930 and began a major restoration effort. The house was opened to the public as a museum in 1938 and has since been designated a National Historic Landmark.
Today, the Powel House is open to the public for guided tours, showcasing the elegant Georgian architecture and the rich history of one of Philadelphia’s most important historic homes.
13. National Constitution Center
Our next Philadelphia landmark serves as America’s leading platform for constitutional education and debate, fulfilling its congressional charter “to disseminate information about the U.S. Constitution on a nonpartisan basis in order to increase awareness and understanding of the Constitution among Americans.
At #13 on our list of the Best Philadelphia Landmarks is the National Constitution Center.
The National Constitution Center is a museum and educational institution dedicated to the history and interpretation of the United States Constitution. The idea for the center was first proposed in the early 1980s, and after several years of planning and fundraising, construction began in 1999.
The National Constitution Center was officially opened on July 4, 2003, with a ceremony attended by then-President George W. Bush.
The center’s main exhibition, “The Story of We the People,” explores the history and significance of the Constitution through interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and artifacts such as original copies of the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and other important documents.
The Center Hosts A Variety Of Temporary Exhibits & Programs
In addition to its permanent exhibition, the National Constitution Center hosts a variety of temporary exhibits and programs throughout the year, as well as public debates, lectures, and other events on topics related to the Constitution and American democracy.
One of the center’s most notable events was the 2008 presidential debate between Barack Obama and John McCain, which was held in the center’s main auditorium and broadcast live to millions of viewers around the world.
Since its opening, the National Constitution Center has become a leading institution for the study and interpretation of the Constitution, as well as an important educational resource for students and teachers across the United States.
The center has received numerous awards and honors for its work, including a Presidential Medal in 2009, and continues to be a vital part of Philadelphia’s cultural and intellectual life.
12. The African American Museum in Philadelphia
At #12 on our list of the Best Philadelphia Landmarks is The African American Museum in Philadelphia.
The African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP) is the first institution in the United States devoted to preserving, interpreting and exhibiting the history and culture of African Americans. The museum was founded in 1976, during the United States Bicentennial Celebration, and is located in Philadelphia.
The idea for the museum was first proposed by a group of black activists, scholars and artists who felt that the contributions of African Americans to American history were not being recognized or adequately represented in mainstream museums. They believed that a museum dedicated to African American history and culture would help to educate the public and promote greater understanding and appreciation of the African American experience.
The museum first opened its doors in 1976, with a small exhibition in the basement of the Belmont Mansion, a historic house in Fairmount Park. The exhibition, entitled “Black Artists in Philadelphia, 1920-1976,” showcased the work of African American artists from Philadelphia and attracted over 35,000 visitors.
In 1980, the museum moved to its current location in Philadelphia’s historic district, on Arch Street between 6th and 7th Streets. The museum’s building is a former residence for a wealthy merchant, and has been renovated to include exhibition galleries, a theater, a café, and a gift shop.
The AAMP Has Featured Over 50 Exhibitions On A Range Of Topics
Since its inception, the AAMP has mounted over 50 exhibitions on a range of topics related to African American history and culture.
The museum’s permanent exhibition, “Audacious Freedom: African Americans in Philadelphia, 1776-1876,” traces the history of African Americans in Philadelphia from the Revolutionary War to the end of Reconstruction. The exhibition includes interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations, and has won numerous awards for its innovative design.
Today, the African American Museum in Philadelphia is a thriving institution that serves as a hub for education, culture, and community engagement. The museum offers a range of programs and events for visitors of all ages, including lectures, workshops, film screenings, and live performances.
Through its exhibitions, programs, and outreach efforts, the AAMP continues to promote greater understanding and appreciation of the African American experience, and to celebrate the contributions of African Americans to American history and culture.
The African American Museum in Philadelphia | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
11. Elfreth’s Alley
Our next Philadelphia landmark is an “exceptional example of early American structures built between 1720 and 1830” according to the historic marker designated in 2016. At #11 on our list of the Best Philadelphia Landmarks is Elfreth’s Alley.
Elfreth’s Alley is a historic street that is widely recognized as one of the oldest continuously inhabited residential streets in the United States. The street is located in the Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia, between 2nd Street and Front Street, and is named after Jeremiah Elfreth, a blacksmith who owned and operated a shop on the street in the 18th century.
The history of Elfreth’s Alley dates back to the early 1700s, when Philadelphia was a thriving port city and a center of trade and commerce. The street was originally a narrow alley that was home to artisans and tradespeople who worked in the nearby waterfront district.
The earliest houses on the street were built in the early 1720s, and many of the original structures still stand today. These houses are notable for their distinctive architectural features, including steeply pitched roofs, decorative brickwork, and narrow facades that are characteristic of the colonial era.
It Was Home To A Diverse Community Of Working Class Families
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Elfreth’s Alley was home to a diverse community of working-class families, including craftsmen, merchants, and laborers. The street was also home to a number of free African Americans, many of whom were skilled tradespeople who played an important role in the development of Philadelphia’s economy.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Elfreth’s Alley fell into disrepair, as the city’s population shifted to other neighborhoods and many of the original houses were converted into tenements or abandoned. In the 1930s, however, a group of concerned citizens formed the Elfreth’s Alley Association and began a campaign to restore the street to its original condition.
Today, Elfreth’s Alley (located in Philadelphia’s Old City Neighborhood) is a popular tourist destination and a living museum that offers visitors a glimpse into Philadelphia’s colonial past. The street is home to 32 historic houses, many of which have been restored and preserved to their original condition, and is open to the public for tours and events throughout the year.
Top 10 Philadelphia Landmarks
10. Museum of the American Revolution
We’re on to our Top 10 Philadelphia landmarks. At #10 on our list is a place which uncovers and shares compelling stories about the diverse people and complex events that sparked America’s ongoing experiment in liberty, equality, and self-government.
Welcome to the Museum of the American Revolution.
The Museum of the American Revolution explores the story of the American Revolution and the founding of the United States. The museum was opened in 2017 and is located in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic district, just steps away from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.
The museum’s collection includes a vast array of artifacts, documents, and interactive exhibits that bring to life the events and personalities of the American Revolution. Visitors can explore galleries that cover topics such as the causes of the Revolution, the struggle for independence, and the creation of the new nation.
The museum’s exhibits feature a range of multimedia presentations, immersive environments, and interactive displays that engage visitors of all ages.
The March to Valley Forge, December 19, 1777, by William B. T. Trego, Museum of the American Revolution | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
See A Life-Size Replica Of A Privateer
One of the most notable exhibits in the museum is a life-sized replica of a privateer ship, complete with interactive displays that allow visitors to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of life on board a Revolutionary-era vessel.
The museum also features a number of artifacts that are of significant historical importance, including George Washington’s tent, which served as his field headquarters during the Revolution, and the original “Don’t Tread on Me” flag, which became a symbol of American independence.
In addition to its exhibits, the Museum of the American Revolution also hosts a range of educational programs, events, and special exhibitions throughout the year. These include lectures, workshops, film screenings, and live performances that explore the themes and topics covered in the museum’s galleries.
Overall, the Museum of the American Revolution is a world-class institution that offers visitors a comprehensive and engaging look at one of the most transformative periods in American history.
Its exhibits and programs celebrate the ideals of liberty, democracy, and freedom that are at the heart of the American experience, and provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped the nation we know today.
Museum of the American Revolution | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
9. Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church
Our next Philadelphia landmark is the oldest African Methodist Episcopal congregation in the nation. At #9 on our list of the Best Philadelphia Landmarks is Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church.
Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church is a historic church located in Philadelphia that has played a significant role in the African American community and the fight for civil rights in the United States.
The church was founded in 1794 by Richard Allen, a former slave who went on to become one of the most important African American religious and political leaders of his time
Richard Allen and his colleague, Absalom Jones, had been active members of St. George’s Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia, but they were forced to leave the church due to racial discrimination. In response, they founded the Free African Society, a mutual aid organization that provided support to African Americans in need.
This organization later became the Bethel Church, which was the first African American church in the United States.
The Church Played An Important Role In The Underground Railroad
The original church building was a simple wooden structure that was replaced in the early 19th century with a larger brick building that is still standing today. The church quickly became a center of African American life in Philadelphia, hosting social events, political meetings, and educational programs.
Many of the church’s members were active in the abolitionist movement, and the church played an important role in the Underground Railroad, helping to shelter and transport runaway slaves to freedom.
Richard Allen went on to become the first bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, a denomination that he helped to establish in 1816. The AME Church grew rapidly throughout the 19th century and became one of the most important African American religious institutions in the United States.
Today, Mother Bethel AME Church is a National Historic Landmark and a thriving congregation that continues to serve the African American community in Philadelphia. The church is home to a museum and archives that document the history of the church and its role in the struggle for civil rights in the United States.
The church is also known for its vibrant worship services, community outreach programs, and social justice initiatives.
Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
8. Free Franklin Post Office & Museum
Our next Philadelphia landmark commemorates Benjamin Franklin’s extensive contributions to the U.S. Postal Service. It is the only post office without a U.S. flag or a zip code. At #8 on our list of the Best Philadelphia Landmarks is the Free Franklin Post Office & Museum.
The Free Franklin Post Office & Museum was originally constructed in 1775 as a general store, and it was owned by a man named Philip Syng, Jr. who was a prominent member of the community and a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
In 1777, during the Revolutionary War, the building was used as a post office by Benjamin Franklin, who had been appointed Postmaster General by the Continental Congress. Franklin used the building as a base for his postal operations, and he also used it as a printing shop, where he produced the first stamps and money for the new United States.
The Building Continued To Serve As A Post Office
After the war, the building continued to serve as a post office, and it became known as the Free Franklin Post Office, in honor of Franklin’s contributions to the postal service. The building remained in use as a post office until 1837, when a new post office was built nearby.
In the late 19th century, the building was restored and converted into a museum dedicated to the life and work of Benjamin Franklin. The museum featured exhibits on Franklin’s inventions, his political career, and his contributions to science and culture.
Today, the Free Franklin Post Office & Museum is part of Independence National Historical Park, and it is open to the public as a historic site. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits and learn about the life and legacy of one of America’s most important founding fathers.
Free Franklin Post Office & Museum | Photo Courtesy of NPS
7. Second Bank of America
Our next Philadelphia landmark was a federally chartered bank that operated from 1816 to 1836. It was created as a successor to the First Bank of the United States, which had been established in 1791 by Alexander Hamilton, but had its charter expire in 1811.
At #7 on our list of the Best Philadelphia Landmarks is the Second Bank of America.
The Second Bank of the United States was created under the presidency of James Madison, and it was intended to serve as a central bank for the country. Its primary purpose was to stabilize the economy by regulating the money supply and controlling inflation.
The bank was headquartered in Philadelphia, and it played an important role in the city’s economic development. It provided loans to businesses and individuals, and it also served as a repository for government funds.
The Bank Was Controversial From Its Start
However, the bank was controversial from the start. Critics argued that it gave too much power to the federal government, and that it favored wealthy business interests over ordinary citizens. President Andrew Jackson was a particularly vocal opponent of the bank, and he vetoed a bill to recharter it in 1832.
Despite Jackson’s opposition, the bank continued to operate until 1836, when its charter expired and it was not renewed. Its assets were sold off, and its functions were transferred to state-chartered banks.
Today, the building that housed the Second Bank of the United States is a National Historic Landmark and a popular tourist attraction in Philadelphia.
It is home to the Portrait Gallery of the Second Bank of the United States, which features a collection of portraits of important figures from American history, including: George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson.
6. President’s House
Our next Philadelphia landmark served as the official residence of the President of the United States from 1790 to 1800, during which time Philadelphia was the capital of the United States.
At #6 on our list of the Best Philadelphia Landmarks is the President’s House.
The building was originally built in 1767 as the home of the wealthy merchant and slave trader, John Penn, a descendant of William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania. The house was designed in the Georgian style, with two stories and a grand central staircase.
In 1790, President George Washington moved into the house, which had been leased by the federal government. The house was also used as a residence by President John Adams during his time in office.
During Washington’s presidency, the President’s House became an important center of political and social life in Philadelphia. The President held regular receptions and dinner parties there, and the house was also used for official meetings and ceremonies.
President’s House | Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
The House Is Also Part Of A Dark Chapter In American History
However, the President’s House was also the site of a dark chapter in American history. Both Washington and Adams owned slaves, and the President’s House was staffed by enslaved people who were forced to work for the President and his family.
One of these enslaved people was Oney Judge, a young woman who had been owned by Martha Washington. In 1796, Judge escaped from the President’s House and made her way to freedom in New Hampshire, becoming one of the most famous fugitive slaves of her time.
Today, the site of the President’s House is commemorated by the President’s House Memorial, a museum and outdoor exhibit that tells the story of the enslaved people who lived and worked in the house.
The museum includes a replica of the President’s House, as well as exhibits and multimedia displays that explore the history of slavery in America and its impact on the lives of enslaved people like Oney Judge.
Top 5 Philadelphia Landmarks
5. Carpenter’s Hall
We’re on to our Top 5 Philadelphia landmarks. Known as the “Birthplace of Liberty”, our next Philadelphia landmark was the location of the 1774 meetings of the First Continental Congress.
At #5 on our list of the Best Philadelphia Landmarks is Carpenter’s Hall.
Carpenter’s Hall was built in 1770 as a meeting place for the Carpenter’s Company of the City and County of Philadelphia, a guild of carpenters and builders that was established in 1724.
The building is best known as the site of the First Continental Congress, which was held there in September 1774. Delegates from twelve of the thirteen American colonies gathered at Carpenter’s Hall to discuss their grievances with the British government and to coordinate their response to the Intolerable Acts, a series of harsh laws that had been passed by the British Parliament in response to the Boston Tea Party.
Declaration & Resolves Of The First Continental Congress
During the Congress, the delegates drafted a statement of rights and grievances, known as the Declaration and Resolves of the First Continental Congress, and called for a boycott of British goods until their demands were met.
Carpenter’s Hall continued to serve as a meeting place for various organizations throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. It was also used as a hospital during the Revolutionary War, and it served as the headquarters for the First and Second Banks of the United States in the early 19th century.
Today, Carpenter’s Hall is open to the public as a historic site and museum. Visitors can explore the building’s historic interiors and learn about the history of the Carpenter’s Company and its role in American history.
The building is a National Historic Landmark and an important symbol of the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.
4. Betsy Ross House
Our next Philadelphia landmark is generally recognized as the place where Betsy Ross lived when she made the first American Flag. At #4 on our list of the Best Philadelphia Landmarks is the Betsy Ross House.
According to tradition, Betsy Ross was approached by a committee of the Continental Congress in 1776 and asked to create a flag for the new nation. She allegedly sewed the first American flag, which featured thirteen stripes and thirteen stars in a circle, in her home on Arch Street in Philadelphia.
The Betsy Ross House was built in 1740, and Betsy Ross is known to have lived there with her first husband, John Ross, from 1773 to 1786. The house is a small, two-story brick structure with a gable roof and a rear courtyard.
After Betsy Ross’ death, the house was used for a variety of purposes, including as a boarding house and a store. In the early 20th century, it was purchased by a group of Philadelphia women who wanted to preserve it as a historic site.
Today, the Betsy Ross House is open to the public as a museum. Visitors can tour the house and learn about Betsy Ross’ life and her role in American history.
The museum also features exhibits on colonial life in Philadelphia and the history of the American flag. The Betsy Ross House is a popular tourist attraction and an important symbol of American patriotism and history.
3. Benjamin Franklin Museum
Our next Philadelphia landmark is a museum which celebrates the genius of one of America’s Founding Fathers. The museum features artifacts, computer animations, and interactive displays. The exhibits are geared toward visitors of all ages, with displays that are educational, challenging, and fun.
At #3 on our list of the Best Philadelphia Landmarks is the Benjamin Franklin Museum.
The Benjamin Franklin Museum is a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Benjamin Franklin, one of America’s founding fathers, inventor, and polymath.
The museum’s location is significant, as Philadelphia was an important center of political, social, and scientific activity during Franklin’s time.
The museum is located in Franklin Court, a historic site that includes the Franklin Print Shop and the Franklin Court Underground Museum, which showcases the archeological remains of Franklin’s house and shop.
Portrait of Benjamin Franklin on the $100 bill | Shutterstock-Roninnw
It Opened As Part Of America’s Bicentennial Celebration
The Benjamin Franklin Museum was first opened in 1976, in honor of the Bicentennial of the United States. The original museum featured exhibits on Franklin’s life and accomplishments, including his experiments with electricity, his inventions, and his role in American politics.
In 2013, the museum underwent a major renovation and reopened to the public in 2018. The new museum features interactive exhibits that use multimedia and technology to tell the story of Franklin’s life and work.
Visitors can explore Franklin’s early life as a printer’s apprentice, his scientific experiments and discoveries, his political career, and his role as a diplomat and ambassador. The museum also includes a replica of Franklin’s library, which houses many of the books that he owned and read throughout his life.
Today, the Benjamin Franklin Museum is a popular tourist attraction and an important center for the study and appreciation of Benjamin Franklin’s life and legacy. It is a testament to Franklin’s enduring influence on American history and culture.
2. The Rocky Statue and Art Museum Steps
In the original Rocky movie, the fictional boxer, Rocky, ended his morning run with an ascent up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This ascent has become symbolic of the city of Philadelphia and its residents, representing that an underdog can become a champion through hard work, determination, and hustle.
In the runner-up spot at #2 on our list of the Best Philadelphia Landmarks is The Rocky Statue and Art Museum Steps.
The Rocky Statue is a bronze sculpture of the character Rocky Balboa, played by Sylvester Stallone in the movie “Rocky.”
The statue was created by the sculptor A. Thomas Schomberg and was originally commissioned for use in the movie. After filming was completed, the statue was donated to the city of Philadelphia and was placed at the base of the steps leading to the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
The Rocky Statue | Courtesy of Visit Philadelphia
The Steps Became Famous
The Art Museum Steps are a long, broad set of steps that lead up to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The steps have become famous as the site of Rocky’s training scene in the movie, in which he runs up the steps and raises his arms in victory at the top.
Following the release of the movie, the steps and the Rocky statue quickly became a popular tourist destination. The statue has since been relocated to several different locations around the museum, but it has remained a beloved symbol of Philadelphia’s cultural heritage.
Today, visitors to the Philadelphia Museum of Art can climb the Art Museum Steps and pose with the Rocky Statue, just as Rocky did in the movie. The steps are also used for athletic events, such as the annual Philadelphia Marathon, and have become a symbol of perseverance and achievement for people all around the world.
1. Independence Hall & The Liberty Bell
We’ve saved the best for last! More Than Just Parks #1 Philadelphia Landmark is Independence Hall & The Liberty Bell.
Independence Hall was constructed between 1732 and 1753 as the Pennsylvania State House and served as the meeting place of the Continental Congress from 1775 to 1783. It was here that some of the most important events in American history took place, including the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the adoption of the United States Constitution.
The Continental Congress first met in Independence Hall in 1775, where it began to organize the colonies’ defense against the British Empire.
In June 1776, the Second Continental Congress, meeting in Independence Hall, adopted the Declaration of Independence, which declared the 13 American colonies independent from British rule. The Declaration was signed by 56 representatives of the colonies, including Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin.
From 1785 to 1787, Independence Hall was also the site of the Constitutional Convention, which was convened to address problems with the Articles of Confederation, the nation’s first governing document.
It was here that the delegates drafted the United States Constitution, which established the structure and function of the federal government and remains the supreme law of the land to this day.
The National Historical Park
Independence National Historical Park is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and was established on July 4, 1956, to preserve and protect several historic sites associated with the founding of the United States. The park covers an area of over 55 acres and contains many important historic buildings and monuments, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Congress Hall.
The park’s history can be traced back to the early 20th century when efforts were made to preserve Independence Hall, the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. In 1948, Congress passed the Historic Sites Act, which provided federal funds for the preservation and interpretation of significant historic sites across the country.
With the passage of the Historic Sites Act, efforts to create a national park in Philadelphia gained momentum. In 1951, the Independence Hall Association was formed, and its members worked to acquire and preserve historic sites in the area. The association’s efforts, along with those of other civic groups, led to the creation of Independence National Historical Park in 1956.
Over the years, the park has grown to include more than 20 historic buildings and monuments, many of which are open to the public for tours and other educational programs. These include Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell Center, the Benjamin Franklin Museum, Congress Hall, and the National Constitution Center.
While You’re There, Be Sure To See The Liberty Bell
Another important feature of the park is the Liberty Bell, which is housed in a glass pavilion adjacent to Independence Hall. The bell has become an enduring symbol of American freedom and independence, and visitors can learn about its history and significance through exhibits and interpretive programs.
The Benjamin Franklin Museum, located near the Independence Hall, is dedicated to the life and legacy of one of America’s most famous founding fathers. The museum features interactive exhibits and displays that explore Franklin’s many accomplishments as a scientist, inventor, and statesman.
In addition to these sites, the park includes a number of other historic buildings and landmarks, such as Congress Hall, the Old City Hall, and the Bishop White House. Visitors can explore the park’s many historic streets and alleys and take in the beauty of the surrounding historic architecture.
For Anyone Who Loves History There’s No Place Quite Like It
For anyone who loves history (and even for those folks who don’t) this is one of the most exciting historical tours. At Independence Hall, visitors learn the stories about the people and events which shaped America.
There’s an old saying that goes, “If this place could only talk.” Well, at Independence Hall, it can talk as the stories come to life about the unique history of a very special place which brought together an amazing group of men who produced not one, but two of the most important documents in the history of the world.
Map Of Philadelphia Landmarks
List Of Philadelphia Landmarks
- Independence Hall & The Liberty Bell
- The Rocky Statue and Art Museum Steps
- Benjamin Franklin Museum
- Betsy Ross House
- Carpenter’s Hall
- President’s House
- Second Bank of America
- Free Franklin Post Office & Museum
- Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church
- Museum of the American Revolution
- Elfreth’s Alley
- The African American Museum in Philadelphia
- National Constitution Center
- Powel House
- American Philosophical Society Museum
Why Trust Us About Philadelphia Landmarks?
We’re Jim Pattiz and Will Pattiz, collectively known as the Pattiz Brothers and we absolutely LOVE the national parks.
You should probably know that we don’t just make this stuff up out of thin air. We’ve spent our entire adult lives exploring and filming America’s national parks and public lands.
We’ve worked with the National Park Service, the Department of Interior, USDA, U.S. Forest Service, and more for years creating films on important places and issues. Our work has been featured in leading publications all over the world and even some people outside of our immediate family call us experts on the national parks.
And, in 2018, our father – having spent a lifetime teaching history – joined us so that he could help us to tell the stories behind these amazing places.
Meet The Parks Brothers
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Our goal here at More Than Just Parks is to share the beauty of America’s national parks and public lands through stunning short films in an effort to get Americans and the world to see the true value in land conservation.
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Related Links
What Is A National Park? Check out our article that explains everything!
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Revolutionary War Sites: Top 10 Best Revolutionary War Sites & Battlefields
Pennsylvania National Parks: 22 EPIC Pennsylvania National Parks Worth Visiting
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