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Whether you’re the ultimate history buff or just a fan of rich storytelling, Philadelphia’s Historic District has you covered, with plenty of must-see historic attractions that trace the origins of American democracy.
Spanning from the Delaware River to 7th Street and from Vine Street to Lombard Street, the Historic District was at the heart of Philadelphia’s original city boundaries. And the number of historic sites and buildings here played a major factor in the declaration of Philadelphia as the first World Heritage City in the U.S., as designated by the Organization of World Heritage Cities.
Those with a hankering for historical knowledge should read on for the essential Historic District experiences, including scoring an up-close view of America’s most famous bell at the Liberty Bell Center, taking a stroll through one of the oldest continuously inhabited — and possibly most charming — streets in America (Elfreth’s Alley) and tossing good-luck pennies on the grave of Benjamin Franklin at the Christ Church Burial Ground.
One of the most iconic symbols in U.S. history, the 2,080-pound Liberty Bell stands proudly on Independence Mall. See it up close at the Liberty Bell Center and discover its powerful history — from the night it was rung to announce the Declaration of Independence to its current status as an international emblem of freedom and justice.
Where: Liberty Bell Center, 526 Market Street
Visionary moments in the creation of our nation unfolded in this monumental stopping point on Independence Mall. On a guided tour, visit the Assembly Room, arranged as it was during the Constitutional Convention in 1787, then head next door to Congress Hall, home of the U.S. Congress from 1790 to 1800.
Where: Independence Hall, 520 Chestnut Street
Did Betsy Ross make the first American flag or not? Ask her yourself when you visit the iconic home of America’s most famous seamstress. Chat with Betsy to hear about the history of the flag and her interaction with George Washington as you explore the tiny rooms and tight staircases of her 1740s abode.
Where: Betsy Ross House, 239 Arch Street
Literally step your way into history on Elfreth’s Alley, one of America’s oldest continuously inhabited residential streets. Cobblestones quilt the ground of this charming narrow pathway. The 32 houses once owned by some of the nation’s earliest craftsmen, merchants and artisans are now private residences, but two of the homes have been turned into an informative public museum.
Where: Elfreth’s Alley, 124-126 Elfreth’s Alley
Before the White House, there was The President’s House, home to both George Washington and John Adams, when Philadelphia was the capital of the United States from 1790 to 1800. The open-air attraction commemorates the nation’s first executive mansion and reveals a long-obscured glimpse into the lives of the enslaved Africans who toiled at the house during Washington’s presidency.
Where: The President’s House, 600 Market Street
Just steps from Independence Hall, the Museum of the American Revolution traces the evolution of the American colonies from the earliest days of unrest through a legendary war and the improbable victory that led to a new nation. Immersive exhibitions and priceless artifacts include General Washington’s original headquarters tent, Revolutionary War weaponry, centuries-old military documents and hundreds of other authentic objects.
Where: Museum of the American Revolution, 101 S. 3rd Street
It’s only four pages long, but the U.S. Constitution is among the most influential and important documents in the history of the world. The 160,000-square-foot National Constitution Center dives into all aspects of this amazing document — drafted just a few blocks away — through high-tech exhibits, artifacts and interactive displays.
Where: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street
Walk on hallowed ground when you visit Mother Bethel AME Church, the mother church of the nation’s first black denomination. Founded in 1787, the church rests upon the oldest parcel of land continuously owned by African Americans. In its basement, formerly used as an Underground Railroad station, the church memorializes Reverend Richard Allen, its founding pastor and first bishop. Visitors can view Allen’s crypt and explore other artifacts from his time as preacher.
Where: Mother Bethel AME Church, 419 S. 6th Street
Take a journey through 360 years of Jewish history in the U.S. at the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, which is filled with more than 1,200 artifacts and documents, 2,500 images, 30 original films and 13 state-of-the-art interactive media displays. The experience delivers a rich tale that traces the path of the nation’s Jewish population from struggling immigrants to integral citizens.
Where: Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, 101 S. Independence Mall East
As a scientist, diplomat, innovator and inventor, Benjamin Franklin certainly warrants commemoration. The Benjamin Franklin Museum does just that through an array of interactive displays that explore all aspects of his extraordinary life.
Where: Benjamin Franklin Museum, 317 Chestnut Street
Constructed between 1727 and 1744, Christ Church hosted some prominent worshipers in its pews back in the day, including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin and Betsy Ross. The church’s burial ground, located several blocks away, also serves as the final resting place for a host of famous history makers. Throw a penny onto Benjamin Franklin’s grave while you’re there, as it’s said to bring good luck.
Where: Christ Church, 20 N. American Street
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Christ Church Burial Ground, 340 N. 5th Street
This museum is home to a permanent core exhibition, Audacious Freedom, a groundbreaking historic and cultural display spanning two floors and presenting the stories of African Americans such as Richard Allen, Octavius Catto and Harriet Tubman through a series of informative and interactive presentations. The upper galleries host a rotating calendar of special exhibitions.
Where: The African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch Street
It’s not just the flawless, brick-lined Georgian architecture that makes Carpenters’ Hall a must-see attraction. In 1774, delegates from 12 colonies gathered here to vote on and pass a trade embargo against England, one of the first unified acts of defiance against King George III. This Continental Congress was the first step toward the Declaration of Independence, which was drafted and signed two years later at nearby Independence Hall.
Where: Carpenters’ Hall, 320 Chestnut Street
Ever wonder where a president takes his wife to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary? For George Washington, that was the Powel House, home to 18th-century power couple Elizabeth and Samuel Powel, who bedecked the rooms inside their mansion with museum-quality clocks, portraits and other treasures. For mansion-viewing with a bit more scandal, head to the Hill-Physick House, where rich marital drama between the original homeowners leaves a story that’ll make you want to linger and listen.
Where: Powel House, 244 S. 3rd Street
Hill-Physick House, 321 S. 4th Street
On 5th Street, next to the east wing of Independence Hall, Philosophical Hall (1789) was built by the American Philosophical Society, the nation’s first “think tank,” as the first U.S. museum and scientific society. Today, the American Philosophical Society Museum’s exhibits feature treasures from the Society’s collections of over 13 million manuscripts and other historical objects.
Where: American Philosophical Society Museum, 104 S. 5th Street
With a colorful fountain show and activities like mini-golf and carousel rides, Franklin Square offers a carefree respite from the sometimes-serious business of historic sightseeing, but you better believe the historic elements are still there. This delightful patch of green space that lies north of Independence Hall was one of five public squares laid out by William Penn in his original vision for Philadelphia. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the park is home to a Once Upon a Nation storytelling bench, featuring short stories about the area from informed historical interpreters.
Where: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th Street
The Visit Philly Overnight Package — booked more than 190,000 times since 2001 — comes with free hotel parking (worth up to $100 in Center City Philadelphia), overnight hotel accommodations and choose-your-own-adventure perks.
The coolest experiences in the Historic District...