A Tour Through American History in Philadelphia

America is littered with historical colonial towns but none as much as the town of Philadelphia. As the fifth most populated city in the United States, Philly was one of the American capitals during the Revolutionary War and was the meeting place for the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It is home to iconic American artifacts such as The Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House and has entire museums dedicated to the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. For travelers looking to experience a tour through American history, Philadelphia is the American town that begins your journey.

Independence Visitor Center

The Independence Visitor Center is in the epicenter of American history museums and attractions. Beginning the American tour here, visitors can learn about the roots and culture of Philadelphia, learn where the best restaurants are and where to shop as well as be provided with a detailed map of the historical attractions within the surrounding the area. Inside the Independence Visitor Center, guests are able to purchase tickets to the surrounding attractions without waiting in line and wasting valuable visiting time.

Independence Hall

Located at the center of Independence National Historical Park, the famous Independence Hall (formerly titled that Pennsylvania State House) is listed as a World Heritage Site. It is listed as such because The Declaration of Independence was signed here and the American Constitution was adopted in the very rooms of this majestic and historical hall. Guests can take tours and walk the same steps as the American founding fathers and gain a closer understanding of what took place on the fateful day of July 2nd, 1776.The Liberty Bell also called Independence Hall home until it was removed and replaced by the Centennial Bell in 1876. The Liberty bell visitors center is just a stone's throw away from Independence Hall at the Liberty Bell Center, located just across the street. .

The Liberty Bell

An iconic symbol of American independence and liberty, The Liberty Bell has been an American attraction for many years. It was originally cracked when it arrived from London to Philadelphia and President Benjamin Harrison years later proclaimed “This old bell was made in England, but it had to be re-cast in America before it was attuned to proclaim the right of self-government and the equal rights of men.” After the Bell was recast, it remained intact until it re-cracked in the early 19th century. It is rumored that the bell rang when the Declaration of Independence was read in Philadelphia on July 8th, and it still stands as one of America symbols of freedom and liberty.

National Constitution Center

Located a short two blocks away from the Liberty Bell, The National Constitution Center is America's only interactive museum solely devoted to the story of the United States Constitution. Guests can experience audio tours with the voices of American presidents of the past, authors and historical icons explaining and retelling the story that penned the document for “We, the People.” Filled with American exhibits, this center features attractions dedicated to voting, the death penalty, the signers of the Constitution and the history of America leading to the Constitution's creation.

Ben Franklin Institute

The Ben Franklin Institute is a different stop on an American History tour; this museum embodies the spirit of Benjamin Franklin with exhibits dedicated to the investigation and discovery of understanding in science. Visitors can experience exhibits dedicated to Ben Franklin's discovering of electricity and how it is used daily in American lifestyles today as well as other exhibits featuring information about America's famous Wright Brothers, steam locomotives and many more iconic and informative displays.

A Tour through American History in Philadelphia

The great American city of Philadelphia is rich in American history and it is no wonder why the founding fathers choose this city to be a capital and the location of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It's beauty and majesty has rung true for over two centuries and while visiting, be sure explore the other historical attractions in “The City of Brotherly Love.” Some to recommend are The Betsy Ross House, Franklin Court, the American Philosophical Society Museum, the Declaration House and Elfreth's Alley. Each museum and attraction in Philadelphia is dedicated to the preservation of America's early history and the promotion of civic duties as discussed by the founding fathers. Each stop on a tour of Philly will leave travelers with a stronger sense of American pride and an understanding of what the founders of America experienced. For vacationers looking to start a tour of America's past, Philadelphia is the city to begin.

Dan Patterson works for CityPASS. A great way to save money in Philadelphia is with the Philadelphia CityPASS. You'll save 50% on admission to some of the top things to see in Philadelphia including the National Constitution Center, Philadelphia Zoo, and Franklin Institute.