National Historic Landmarks provide insight into remarkable historical events and movements through architecture, art, or social activism. Take a tour of Philadelphia’s most interesting landmarks and attractions!
Explore America’s founding at Independence Hall, where Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin drafted the Declaration of Independence. Next visit Betsy Ross House for more insight into her acclaimed design for the American flag – still controversial today!
Independence Hall
Independence Hall was a key site in American history where both the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were debated, adopted, and signed – in addition to housing the iconic Liberty Bell which stands as a global symbol for liberty.
This 18th-century building first served as headquarters of the Continental Congress before later becoming Philadelphia’s first federal courthouse and center of government.
The Powel House, situated on Society Hill in Philadelphia and beautifully decorated in Georgian style, was home to Samuel Powel – Philadelphia’s mayor during British rule. This brick row home stands as an exquisite example of Georgian design.
Liberty Bell
No Philadelphia historical tour would be complete without paying a visit to the iconic Liberty Bell, cast in 1755 and spending 150 years as part of the State House before cracking. Discover its rich history including how its cracking became a national icon during World War I when leaders rallied the country into patriotic frenzy for what many called “the war to end all wars”.
As this city boasts over 42% African American residents, it’s essential to visit historic landmarks that honor and celebrate their rich heritage and history. One such spot is the African American Museum – built with funding provided by its city of origin! Other landmarks of note include Dox Thrash’s home where 20th-century Black artists once resided and worked.
Christ Church Burial Ground
This graveyard is home to several Colonial, Revolutionary, and Post-Revolutionary notables such as Benjamin Franklin as well as others from ship captains, pirates, soldiers who fought for British crown and soldiers who have fallen on battlefields across Europe. Their gravestones have become disintegrating over time due to acid rain and shifting dirt; however their inscriptions have been restored by volunteers.
Visitors to Philadelphia can easily view Benjamin Franklin’s tomb through a fence without entering Christ Church Burial Ground, making it one of the city’s top tourist spots and drawing over 250,000 people annually. Tours are offered to gain more insight into its rich history while nearby, the Liberty Bell is another must-see attraction when exploring Philadelphia.
Elfreth’s Alley
Elfreth’s Alley in Old City is well-known as one of America’s oldest historic streets, having been built during the eighteenth century and home to dressmaker-owned residences. Many residents fought hard to preserve this early American street as part of an early American museum experience; today its inhabitants care for it like they would their own backyards.
Residents open up their homes to the public on “Fete Day” in June and “Deck the Alley” each December for guided tours. Sue Kettell of House 113 says living on an alley adds charm to her home; she especially enjoys telling others about its history as Thomas Jefferson often strolled down its alleyways.
Rosenbach Museum and Library
The Rosenbach Museum and Library is an incredible treasure chest of rare books, manuscripts and fine arts. Its extensive collections boast letters from Thomas Jefferson and George Washington; Bram Stoker’s notes for Dracula; an extensive Herman Melville collection; as well as James Joyce’s handwritten manuscript of Ulysses.
Philip and Dr. A.S.W. Rosenbach operated their international dealership of rare books and antiques out of this restored 1860s townhouse in Center City for over five decades, selling everything from 18th century English furniture by Chippendale, Adam and Hepplewhite to silver pieces by Hester Bateman and Paul Storr to rare books from around the world. Today this fascinating museum remains open for visits.
The museum boasts an impressive collection of over 1000 portrait miniatures. Exhibitions and programs highlight American literature, culture and art history.
