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Top Philadelphia Attractions
The first time you visit Philadelphia, or any new destination,
the question asked isn’t usually what attractions should be
scene but what attraction to see first, what to expect, how to get
there, and how much time is needed. We’ve provided tips, advice,
and other information about the top tourist attractions in Philadelphia
to help with your itinerary planning.
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Independence Hall
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| Address
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Chestnut Street between 5th and 6th Streets |
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| Admissions
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Free |
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| Hours
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9:00 am – 5:00 pm daily |
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| Phone
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215-597-8974 |
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| Website
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www.nps.gov/inde/ |
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Independence Hall is best known for its role in shaping the nation.
However, it is important to remember that Independence Hall (originally
called the Pennsylvania State House) served as the seat of government
for the city of Philadelphia and the state of Pennsylvania long
before and long after Philadelphia functioned as the United States
Capital.
 England’s
heavy taxation and, sometimes, brutal treatment of the American
colonists pushed the majority of colonials in favor of independence.
After repeated attempts to petition England for independence failed,
the Second Continental Congress was convened at Independence Hall
in May 1775. The result was the drafting of the Declaration of Independence,
which was officially adopted on July 4th, 1776. Congress acted quickly
and appointed George Washington the commander of the Continental
Army. The Declaration of Independence was delivered to the new nation
on July 8th in Independence Square.
Congress met again in 1787 at Independence Hall to debate, draft
and sign the United States Constitution.
Time slotted tickets are provided in the morning on a first come
first serve basis. If you’re on a tight schedule, you may
want to reserve your tickets in advance by calling the ticket office.
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The Liberty Bell
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| Address
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6th Street between Market & Chestnut Streets |
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| Admissions
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Free |
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| Hours
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9:00 am – 5:00 pm daily |
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| Phone
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215-597-8974 |
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 If
you only have time to see one attraction while visiting Philadelphia,
see the Liberty Bell. The Liberty Bell was commissioned for the
Pennsylvania State House (now called Independence Hall) in 1751.
The bell rang many times, signifying public announcements. The Liberty
Bell weighs about 2,000 lbs. It was originally cast in England.
However, it was cracked while being tested and had to be recast
in 1753 by the Pass and Stow company of Philadelphia. Legend has
it that the Liberty Bell rang on July 8th, 1776 to announce the
first public reading of the Declaration of Independence outside
Independence Hall. The Liberty Bell was again silenced by a crack,
this time for good, in 1846.
Today the Liberty Bell is properly enshrined within a 13,000 square
foot, glass pavilion, with Independence Hall in its backdrop.
The new Liberty Bell Center offers interactive exhibits including
an educational film produced by the History Channel.
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Betsy Ross House
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| Address
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239 Arch Street |
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| Admissions
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$3 adults, $2 children |
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| Hours
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10:00 am – 5:00 pm daily |
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| Phone
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215-686-1252 |
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| Website
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www.betsyrosshouse.org |
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 Betsy
Ross was a seamstress that worked out of her house on Arch Street.
Legend has it that Ross was commissioned by George Washington to
create the first American Flag.
It takes only a few minutes to walk through the tiny house, which
was restored in 1937. The upholstery shop where Ross allegedly sewed
the flag has been converted to a small souvenir shop.
The Betsy Ross House hosts Philadelphia’s annual Flag Day
celebration on June 14th.
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Philadelphia Zoo
The Philadelphia Zoo showcases over 2,00 animals from six continents
along with a number of entertaining rides and educational exhibits.
The Philadelphia Zoo opened its doors in 1874. At that time it was
the first zoo in America. The zoo’s most popular exhibits
include the reptile house, the primate reserves and the white lions.
There are also pony rides and a petting zoo for the children. Breathtaking
views of the zoo and nearby Fairmont Park can be enjoyed from 400
feet in the sky aboard the Channel 6 Zooballoon.
There is no better place to take the family then the Philadelphia
Zoo.
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City Hall
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| Address
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Broad & Market Streets |
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| Admissions
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Free |
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| Hours
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9:30 am – 4:30 pm M-F |
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| Phone
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215-686-2840 |
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City Hall is one of the most prominent landmarks in Philadelphia.
You can’t miss seeing the massive white stone structure in
center city. Philadelphia’s City Hall was constructed in 1871.
Today, the Mayor’s office along with many other government
offices are located within the charming building’s stately
walls. Outside City Hall stands the beloved statue of William Penn,
which was created by Alexander M. Calder.
Highlights of the City Hall tour include visiting the City Council
Chamber, the Mayor’s Reception Room and, of course, the spectacular
view of the city from the tower.
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Philadelphia Travel Guides
 Frommer's Philadelphia
Lonely Planet Philadelphia
Let's Go Philadelphia
Fodors Philadelphia
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