8 Philadelphia Historical Sites You Need to Visit

If you have a love for history, museums and learning endless new facts, we have found the eight must-see Philadelphia historical sites! Filled with rich historical significance, Philadelphia is home to some of the most notable locations in our country’s history. Check out one (or all) of these sites in Philadelphia’s Historic District for a day full of monumental landmarks!

1. The Liberty Bell Center

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First on the list of Philadelphia historical sites is none other than one of America’s most recognizable symbols of freedom, the Liberty Bell. Here you can get a complete 360-degree view of the 2,000 pound bell and relish in its historical value and significance. The building in which the bell is located offers self-guided exhibits about the Liberty Bell as well as informative National Park rangers who are available on site to tell stories. After all, did you really visit Philadelphia if you haven’t seen this historical site? Be a part of the two million people that visit the bell each year! No tickets necessary.

Hours & Location
Monday – Sunday | 9 am – 5 pm

? Location 526 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

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2. Betsy Ross House

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Have you ever wondered where our American flag came from? Well, you have the opportunity to check out the house where the very first flag was made! Head to Betsy Ross’s house in Old City to be in the exact spot where our nation’s colors of red, white and blue were born. In the 18th-century home of the iconic seamstress you can take a self-guided tour or an audio tour to learn about Ross’s life as a businesswoman, mother and revolutionary. Tickets are available for purchase here!

Hours & Location
Monday – Sunday | 10 am – 5 pm

? Location 239 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

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3. President's House Site

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In the late 1700’s, Philadelphia was the capital of the United States and housed both President George Washington and John Adams in the President’s House. Be sure to check out the first executive mansion to learn more about the history of this landmark through provided timelines, video representations and artifacts. It is a first hand learning experience for those interested to learn more about the enslaved African-Americans who worked at the mansion. For free admission, you can walk freely and at your own pace through this outdoor exhibit!

Hours & Location
Monday – Sunday | 7 am – 10 pm

? Location 6th St & Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

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4. The African American Museum

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It is especially important in today’s society that we stay knowledgable about the history of African-Americans and continue to celebrate their culture and significance to our nation. Through a series of photos, videos, artifacts and interactive displays, learn about the courageous stories of those who founded the nation through the museum’s core exhibition, Audacious Freedom. The second floor presents a rotating calendar which offers other events at the museum such as upcoming book signings, art shows and more. Tickets can be found and purchased here!

Hours & Location
Monday – Wednesday | CLOSED
Thursday – Sunday | 10 am – 5 pm

? Location 701 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

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5. Independence Hall

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Philadelphia is home to the very building in which the United States Declaration of Independence and Constitution were debated and signed. Check out Independence Hall and take a 20-minute tour led by National Park rangers. The tour begins in the Assembly Room, the room where both documents were signed, and depending on varying restrictions some tourists may have guided access to the second floor of the historical building. Tickets must be reserved here.

Hours & Location
Monday – Sunday | 9 am – 5 pm

? Location 520 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

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6. Christ Church

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Christ Church is a notable landmark for those interested in seeing the first worshipping spot after America officially broke away from the Church of England. Historical figures such as George Washington and Betsy Ross attended services here and so can you! This Episcopal Church remains active and holds services throughout the week as well as guided tours. Be sure to also make the church’s burial ground a part of your historic Philadelphia tour and see Benjamin Franklin’s grave. Check out how to reserve a tour here!

Hours & Location
Monday – Tuesday | CLOSED
Wednesday – Sunday | 11 am – 5 pm

? Location N 2nd and Church St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
?Burial Grounds location – N 5th and Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

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7. Elfreth's Alley

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Either at your own pace or with a guided audio tour, grab your friends and head to Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continually inhabited residential street in America. This cobblestone street consists of 30 private residencies and two houses that have been made into informative public museums. Here you can learn about the 300-year history and the street’s first homeowners who aided in the formation of Philadelphia. Tickets to the museum can be purchased in front of house #126.

Hours & Location
Museum Hours:
Friday – Sunday | 12 – 4 pm

? Location 126 Elfreth’s Alley, Philadelphia, PA 19106

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8. Museum of the American Revolution

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From weaponry used in battles to personal diaries from soldiers, the Museum of the American Revolution has it all! Travel back in time and walk through chronologically ordered galleries to learn every aspect of the Revolutionary War. Our favorite part is the Battlefield Theater where visitors get to experience what it was like to be on the front lines of the Continental Army during an attack from the British. Tickets are available for purchase here!

Hours & Location
Monday – Sunday | 10 am – 5 pm

? Location 101 S. Third St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

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Share your Historical Finds with Us!

Be sure to tag us on Instagram @StufftodoinPhilly in photos from your favorite Philadelphia historical sites!

Philadelphia Historical Sites You Need to Visit

1. The Liberty Bell Center

2. Betsy Ross House

3. President's House Site

4. The African American Museum

5. Independence Hall

6. Christ Church

7. Elfreth's Alley

8. Museum of the American Revolution

Share your Historical Finds with Us!

Follow us

Curated by

Caroline Margle

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Philadelphia Historical Sites You Need to Visit

1. The Liberty Bell Center

2. Betsy Ross House

3. President's House Site

4. The African American Museum

5. Independence Hall

6. Christ Church

7. Elfreth's Alley

8. Museum of the American Revolution

Share your Historical Finds with Us!

Follow us

Curated by

Caroline Margle