Philadelphia, PA
- Philadelphia's Historic District is packed with family fun attractions to help tell the city's history and the nation. And this includes, of course, The Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall, but Philly's History goes beyond Independence Mall. Listed below are a few of the Must-See locations to explore Philadelphia's rich History & past.
Must-See Historic Philadelphia Attractions and Landmarks
Battleship New Jersey
Wannabe sailors can visit the nation's most decorated battleship, the Battleship New Jersey, take tours of the ship, and ride the 4-D flight simulator. Climb into the onboard helicopter and sleep in the sailors' bunks as part of its award-winning Overnight Encampment program. 62 Battleship Place, Camden, (856) 966-1652, battleshipnewjersey.org
Betsy Ross House
America's most famous flag maker greets guests in her interactive 18th-century upholstery shop at the Betsy Ross House. Visitors learn about Betsy's life and legend from the lady herself. An audio tour caters to four-to-eight-year-olds, offering lessons in Colonial life and the opportunity to solve "history mysteries." 239 Arch Street, (215) 686-1252, betsyrosshouse.org
The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia
Everyone handles money, but how does it arrive in people's wallets? The hands-on Money in Motion exhibit at the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia explains it all. Plus, games invite visitors to "Match Wits with Ben," and an impressive collection of old and rare currency is displayed. 6th & Arch Streets, (866) 574-3727, (215) 574-6000, philadelphiafed.org
Independence National Historical Park
The Liberty Bell Center, Independence Hall, Congress Hall, the Benjamin Franklin Museum, and the Bishop White House. These are just some of the buildings that make up Independence National Historical Park in Historic Philadelphia. In the summer months, the park offers ranger-led walking tours, which have included Dr. Franklin's Philadelphia, History Beneath Our Feet, and Underground Railroad. (215) 965-2305, nps.gov/inde
The National Constitution Center
This is America's first and the only museum dedicated to the U.S. Constitution in the Heart of Independence Mall. Highlights include interactive exhibits; the powerful, multimedia Freedom Rising performance; Signers' Hall, filled with life-sized statues of the U.S. Constitution's signers, and nationally touring exhibitions. Special family-friendly programs throughout the year, celebrate civic holidays like Presidents' Day, Veterans' Day, Tax Day, Earth Day, and more. 525 Arch Street, (215) 409-6600, constitutioncenter.org
Valley Forge National Historical Park's
Visitors to Valley Forge National Historical Park's 3,500 acres learn about the Continental. Army's intolerable winter encampment of 1777-1778. Highlights include nearly 30 miles of multi-use trails and historic structures, including Washington's Headquarters, replica soldiers' huts, monuments, statues, and the Washington Memorial Chapel. Children can play-enlist in the Continental Army for a day. During the summer, visitors can stop at two free Once Upon A Nation storytelling benches to hear tales about the encampment, and kids can learn about 18th-century spy activities. 1400 N. Outer Line Drive, Valley Forge, (610) 783-1000, nps.gov/vafo
Historic Philadelphia Center
Liberty 360 3D Show surrounds visitors as they take an immersive, 360° patriotic journey led by none other than Benjamin Franklin. Discover our nation's symbols of freedom—from the bald eagle to the Statue of Liberty. Inside the Historic Philadelphia Center's customized, wraparound PECO Theater, the 15-minute indoor show uses the most modern technology of its kind to spotlight the most treasured American value—liberty. 6th & Chestnut Streets, (215) 629-4026, historicphiladelphia.org
Pennsbury Manor
Horses, deer, sheep, and even a few peacocks roam the grounds of Pennsbury Manor, the recreated country estate of William Penn situated on 43 scenic acres along the Delaware River. Craft demonstrations, costumed interpreters, interactive activities, gardens, and animals whisk modern-day visitors back to the 17th century. 400 Pennsbury Memorial Road, Morrisville, (215) 946-0400, pennsburymanor.org
Share Historic Philly on Social Media
