In 2015, Philadelphia became the first city in the United States to receive the designation of World Heritage City. Its history comes to life in many different ways: at political gathering places, in historic houses, and through exhibitions that explore different aspects of the city and the country.
History in Buildings and Exhibitions
Independence Hall is the largest building in the center of the Independence Square block. Congress Hall was home to the US Congress for ten years, from 1790 to 1800, while Philadelphia was the capital of the United States. Carpenters’ Hall hosted the First Continental Congress in 1774 and is free to the public.
Elfreth’s Alley dates back to 1703 and includes early American buildings constructed between 1720 and 1836. A guided history tour lasts 40 minutes, follows the entire alley, including Bladen’s Court, and includes admission to two museum houses. Revolutionary City takes a different approach: the guided walking tour takes place outdoors, lasts 1.5 hours, and covers about a mile. Tour times may change; check the current schedule when planning a tour.
At the Betsy Ross House, you can meet Betsy in person as she sews reproductions of colonial-era fabrics in her upholstery workshop. An English-language audio tour covers her life and the historical debate over her role in the American Revolutionary War. Flagmakers’ Hall is an exhibition space devoted to the history, craftsmanship, and legacy of the American flag.
The Liberty Bell Center features self-guided exhibitions about the Liberty Bell; exhibitions may change. Franklin Court includes ghost structures of the courtyard and the foundations of Benjamin Franklin’s house. The Johnson House was an important part of the Underground Railroad. It displays artifacts about the history of slavery and extensive educational materials. The program also includes history lectures, art exhibitions, and other special programs; check their availability before your trip.
Markets, Museums, and Special Collections
Since 1893, Reading Terminal Market has been housed in a building designated a National Historic Landmark. Its offerings include locally grown and exotic fruits and vegetables, regionally sourced meat and poultry, seafood, cheese, baked goods, and sweets. The selection of vendors may change.
The Independence Seaport Museum features two historic ships and exhibitions on the Delaware River. Since ships and exhibitions are subject to operational changes, it’s a good idea to check what’s currently available if you have a particular one in mind. The Philadelphia Zoo is home to more than 1,900 rare and endangered animals; its animal collection may change.
The Independence Visitor Center offers a ticket counter, gift shop, public restrooms, and exhibitions. These visitor services may change.
Gardens, Riverfront, and Greenway Trails
The Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center includes a traditionally designed Japanese house and garden that reflect the history of Japanese culture in Philadelphia. Visitors can tour the house and feed the koi; both activities may depend on operating conditions. Boathouse Row is a collection of 19th-century boathouses on the eastern bank of the Schuylkill River.
Fairmount Park offers opportunities for walking, using trails, playing softball, and enjoying family picnics. In Wissahickon Valley Park, you can walk, bike, and ride horses; permits are required for some activities on the upper trails. Forbidden Drive is a lower gravel road that follows the creek through the park.
Visitor Information
Philadelphia’s Historic District has eight Indego bike-share locations. Station locations may change, so it’s a good idea to check the latest information before using the system.
Explore more destinations: Philadelphia, Beaver, Bedford, Fayette County, Clinton County, Westmoreland, Northumberland, York.
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