A Quick Historical Visit to Philadelphia

Visiting the historical sights of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. thedailyadventuresofme.com
The clock towers of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

If you are a lover of American history, a stop in Philadelphia is a must for you. In a small space, you will see most of where our nationhood was solidified.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was the second colonial capital from 1790-1800. It was moved from New York. Later the US capital was moved to Washington DC, which is a district, not in a state. This was done to keep any state from feeling stronger than the others. See, this has already been a lesson in our founding father’s ideals for our nation…

Independence National Historic Park

This complex is behind secure walls. You will go through a metal detector to enter, but entrance is free. Expect to spend an hour or two here.

Independence Hall

One day in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. thedailyadventuresofme.com
Can you imagine all the great men in this room conjuring up the Constitution?

This was originally Philadelphia State Hall, but was later renamed. Some pretty incredible things happened here:

  • George Washington was appointed Commander in Chief of the Continental Army in 1775.
  • The Declaration of Independence was signed after ten years of the colonists being upset about taxes levied by the British and a lack of control over their own lives. The Boston Tea Party and Quartering Acts were two big instigating events for this to be written. The patriots who assembled made this declaration not knowing if it would result in them being imprisoned or hanged. But without it, the world’s ideal of people ruling themselves perhaps wouldn’t be as strong.
  • The US Constitution was argued and written.

Although entrance is free, a timed ticket for entry is required during most of the year. For a small fee, you can pre-book your ticket here.

Congress Hall

Pennsylvania Assembly House Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. thedailyadventuresofme.com
John Adams was sworn in as President in this room.

Old City Hall

The sight of the US’ first Supreme Court from 1791-1800.

The Liberty Bell Center

Visiting the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. thedailyadventuresofme.com
The bell has cracked from its use and can no longer be rung, but it still stands as a symbol.

Although the United States took many years to realize that liberty is for more than just white males, it is one of our fundamental values. There is no greater symbol than the Liberty Bell, which is free to see in this complex. On your way to the bell, there is a museum about the concept of liberty in the United States.

This visit will take you about an hour and is free.

Free Quaker Meeting House

Exploring the religion of the Quakers is a thought-provoking way to explore the relationship between the US’ ideals of religion and freedom of thought. William Penn, a Quaker, was the first “sole proprietor” of Pennsylvania and drew settlers to the area by the promise of religious tolerance. For this reason the majority of this area’s first settlers were Quakers. Quakers did not believe in taking oaths or military service. You can visit their meeting house and explore how those beliefs interacted with the political climate of the Colonial period.

Philadelphia Art Museum

24 Hours in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. thedailyadventuresofme.com
Do you have what is takes to run up all these stairs?

Although the building is full of lovely art, you must visit to run up the famous stairs of this museum, cranking “Gonna Fly Now (Rocky Theme Song)” on your iPhone. A little frivolous fun after your day immersing yourself in serious history.

Philadelphia Tip: Most historical buildings in Philadelphia will require going through a metal detector and a bag check, so simplify what you carry.

Everywhere on this list, except the Philadelphia Art Museum is close enough to explore on foot.

What is your favorite historical sight to visit in Philadelphia? Please let me know in the comments.

If you are continuing to explore Pennsylvania and love chocolate are you going to Hershey? Are you headed on to Washington, DC? Check out My Top Ten Washington DC Highlights.

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