Philadelphia, PA - During your trip to Philadelphia, there are many things to see and do. You can visit the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and other sites associated with the American Revolution. You can also explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which is home to some of the most iconic steps in the world.
Valley Forge National Historical Park
Located in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Valley Forge National Historical Park preserves much of the land used for the historic encampment of General George Washington's Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. The site includes reconstructed log cabins, a visitor center, and an array of historic structures. It is also connected to the regional trail system, allowing visitors to cycle and hike throughout the park.
The Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including guided tours, bike rentals, and trolley tours. In addition, the Park has an array of historical artifacts and museum exhibits. It is also one of the most important sites associated with the American Revolutionary War.
Visitors can experience the history of Valley Forge by walking through the park. The park features the historic home of Brigadier General James Mitchell Varnum. Visitors can also see the restored log cabin barracks used by the Muhlenberg Brigade. The visitor center features an interactive muster roll of Continental soldiers.
Visitors can also watch a short film about the history of Valley Forge. During the Revolutionary War, Valley Forge was the site of a crucial battle that resulted in a victory for the Continental Army.
Independence Hall
Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Independence Hall is the center of the Independence National Historical Park. It is home to the United States Constitution and Declaration of Independence. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The United States Declaration of Independence is considered one of the most significant documents in the history of the United States. It set forth universal principles of freedom, democracy, and independence. The Declaration was a significant turning point in the history of the United States and became a model for other nations.
Independence Hall is part of the Independence National Historical Park and is a National Historic Landmark. It is a must-see for anyone visiting the City of Brotherly Love. Independence Hall is one of the most visited historic sites in the United States. During the 1790s, Philadelphia was the nation's capital. The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated in the building.
It is estimated that up to 60% of the wood in the building is original. It is a well-preserved building with many fine features. The best time to visit Independence Hall is in the spring or fall. The museum is a short walk from other attractions.
Science History Institute
Located in Independence National Historical Park, the Science History Institute in Philadelphia is a place to learn about the history of science. Its focus is on the history of chemistry, but it also contains a museum, archive, library, and research center.
The institute was founded in 1982 as a partnership between the American Chemical Society and the University of Pennsylvania. It was renamed the Chemical Heritage Foundation (CHF) in 1992. Its mission is to promote understanding and appreciation of the history of chemistry, chemical engineering, and related sciences. The foundation sponsors research, publishes books and documentary videos and sponsors various public programs. It also produces an online magazine, Lady Science.
It is also home to the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Center for the History of Chemistry. Its fine art collection contains more than 500 works of art. The collection includes oil paintings, engravings, and mixed media.
It also holds a large number of scientific instruments and personal papers of famous scientists. The institute offers a History Lab program, which offers transformative opportunities for visitors to engage with science. It also hosts public exhibitions and conferences. The institute also produces an audio guide, which provides visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at the institute's history.
First Bank of the United States
Located on the Third Street in Philadelphia, the First Bank of the United States is a National Historic Landmark. Built-in 1797, the building remains a National Park Service unit. The First Bank building is a landmark, but the public cannot enter.
In 1791, Alexander Hamilton proposed the creation of a national bank. He believed that a national bank would improve the nation's credit and provide a national government with more authority to handle fiscal issues. The bank would issue loans to worthy borrowers.
As the first central bank in the nation, the Bank of the United States would play a crucial role in developing the nation's credit. It was also one of the earliest attempts to regulate the nation's money supply, and it helped to connect Philadelphia to the national economy.
Initially, the Bank of the United States opened its doors in Carpenters' Hall on Chestnut Street. It later opened branches in New York, Boston, Baltimore, and Washington.
In the early 1830s, the First Bank of the United States was bought by wealthy Philadelphian Stephen Girard. Girard went back to work for the bank when he was older. When he died in 1831, Girard had accumulated more than $105 million. He was the wealthiest man in early America.
Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
Founded in 1812, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is the oldest natural science research institution in the American continent. This world-class institution is home to a museum and interactive exhibits, offering opportunities to learn about the natural world. The academy also investigates essential issues in biodiversity.
The Academy of Natural Sciences has made significant progress in understanding the natural world better. In addition to its extensive scientific collections, the academy offers opportunities to interact with working scientists. The academy has partnered with more than 50 community organizations each year. This has increased the impact of their work on diverse audiences.
The academy has also allowed students to become climate advocates through filmmaking. In their final project, they will produce a one-day film festival for the public on climate change solutions.
The academy has also developed a partnership with the City of Philadelphia to help the region become more climate resilient. The partnership has resulted in the creation of The Environmental Collaboratory, an internal hub for environmental issues. This partnership will employ experts from both institutions.
Through this collaboration, the academy has also expanded its historic collections. The academy now has over 18 million specimens in its collection. These specimens include the fossil collection of Thomas Jefferson.
Shane Confectionery
Located in the Old City of Philadelphia, the Shane Confectionery is the oldest continuously running confectionery in the United States. It is also considered an iconic Philadelphia institution. The candy shop was founded in 1863 and continues to manufacture confections in the same building today.
Samuel Herring opened the confectionery, the first confectioner to set up shop in Philadelphia. He sold shelled almonds, figs, and cocoa nuts. He also had a chocolate liquor business, which he sold to his customers. Benjamin Herring, Samuel's son, later took over the business.
The candy shop continued until 1910 when William T. Westcott purchased the building and candy business. He expanded the business to Camden, New Jersey. He also opened a chocolate factory on Spring Garden Street.
The candy shop was remodeled in the early 20th century to cater to the tastes of the turn of the century. The candy shop was also furnished with elaborate decorations. Its interior was a time capsule of early 20th-century design. There were curved windows, stained glass, and elaborate woodwork.
The candy shop is open Friday through Sunday and offers a variety of sweets. The shop also has a chocolate cafe. The candy shop serves hot and cold chocolate drinks and ice cream. Its menu includes old-fashioned candy such as candy cigarettes and peppermint. It also accepts cash only.
Franklin Square
Franklin Square is an ideal outdoor destination located on the edge of historic Philadelphia. It offers everything for the whole family. There's a playground, a carousel, a miniature golf course, a miniature train, and Philly-themed dining options. It's also home to the Philadelphia Heroes Memorial, which honors the city's fallen firemen, police officers, and other public safety personnel.
Franklin Square is between Race Street and the Vine Street Expressway in Center City, Philadelphia. Wrought iron fences and a fountain surround the park. A fountain show is held daily until 6:00 pm. The show features colorful lights and music.
Franklin Square was once an encampment for the homeless. Some residents would even feed squirrels and rodents. The area was also the location of bawdy taverns. Philadelphia's red-light district also surrounded the square. The area was also home to a palm reader and a shooting gallery.
Franklin Square was once considered a "skid row" park. Many of the residents were poor, and the area was home to many dingy rooming houses. Franklin Square was initially named the North East Publick Square but was renamed Franklin Square in honor of Benjamin Franklin in 1825. Franklin Square was also a part of Philadelphia's original city plan. The park was also used for drilling soldiers during the War of 1812.
Franklin Square has undergone redevelopment. The park includes an 18-hole miniature golf course. It also features an old fountain and two playgrounds.
