Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has its origins in 1682, when it was founded by William Penn as a town in the English Province of Pennsylvania. Tucked between the Schuylkill and Delaware Rivers, Philadelphia quickly grew in economic and social importance. By the mid-1700s, Philadelphia was the largest in the North American colonies and would play a central role during the American Revolution. Today, the bustling city embraces its past and thankfully, has preserved dozens of historic buildings and sites for visitors to explore.
A Historic Walking Tour of Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia, PA is one of the most historic cities in the United States and offers the amazing opportunity to step back in time and experience our nation’s founding. In fact, there are dozens of historic sites in the city, not to mention the expansive Independence National Historical Park (one could likely spend many days exploring the city and still not see everything!). This walking tour highlights just 13 of those historic buildings and sites and provides some recommendations along the way. Expect to set aside an entire day to complete this, or even split it up over two days (it all depends on what museums you wish to see and how much time you devote to each site).
Of course, there are other sites and museums not specifically covered on this tour, to include the phenomenal Museum of the American Revolution, the United States Mint, and the enlightening National Constitution Center- feel free to make your trip your own! The following tour map gives a recommended tour route that will take you by 13 historic buildings and sites:
1 – Independence Visitors Center
2 – Declaration House
3 – Washington Square/Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution
4 – Liberty Bell
5 – Independence Hall & Congress Hall
6 – Signer’s Garden and the Second Bank of the United States
7 – Carpenters’ Hall
8 – City Tavern
9 – Christ Church
10 – Elfreth’s Alley
11 – Betsy Ross House
12 – Franklin Court Printing Office and Benjamin Franklin Museum
13 – Christ Church Burial Ground
1 – Independence Visitors Center
This tour begins at the Independence Visitors Center, which is the perfect place to acquire information, maps, and recommendations on the best way to explore the city of Philadelphia. In fact, it serves as the visitors center for both Independence Historical National Park and the city of Philadelphia! There are public bathrooms, a gift shop, a snack bar, a small museum/display, and National Park rangers and other city guides to answer any questions you may have. It is open from 9AM – 5PM Sunday through Thursday and from 9AM – 6PM on Friday & Saturday. There is also a convenient parking garage located beneath the visitors center, which is a great central location to park your car for the day to explore the historic sites.
2 – Declaration House
A short walk from the Independence Visitors Center is the Declaration House. What is known as the “Declaration House” was actually the home of Jacob Graff; however, from May 23 – September 3, 1776, Thomas Jefferson lived in this house with his enslaved servant, Robert Hemings. It earned its nickname because Jefferson actually drafted the Declaration of Independence in it! Of course, Jefferson was part of the Committee of Five, which was tasked with the writing of the declaration; however, he is credited with doing a majority of the work and putting his own personal touch on the famous document. The original house was unfortunately demolished in 1883; however, it was rebuilt in 1975 by the National Park Service in preparation for the bi-centennial.
3 – Washington Square/Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution
The next stop on the tour is Washington Square; however, if you are looking for a nearby spot to grab some breakfast/brunch, head on over to the delicious Knead Bagels. Located a stones throw from the square, it is the perfect spot to grab a breakfast sandwich and a coffee (there is also a Starbucks nearby if that is more your speed).
In colonial days, the area that is now Washington Square was known as a potters field, which was used to graze animals and where strangers, convicts, and free and enslaved African Americans were buried. During the American Revolution, hundreds of patriot soldiers were laid to rest in mass graves within the potters field. When the British Army occupied Philadelphia from September 1777 – June 1778, the many American soldiers who died in British prisons in the city were buried in this field (today a marker is dedicated in memory of those soldiers). It wasn’t until the 1793 Yellow Fever epidemic in Philadelphia that burials within the field ceased.
In 1825, the area was named “Washington Square” in honor of George Washington and over the years, became a popular spot for monuments and citizens to relax. In 1953, it was decided to dedicate a monument to those men who fought in the American Revolution. Thus, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution was created, designed by architect G. Edwin Brumbaugh. Remains of a soldier originally buried in that field were re-interred into this tomb, although the identity (to include whether British or American) is unknown. Truly, this is hallowed ground.
4 – Liberty Bell
As you head back towards the Independence National Historical Park, you will pass Independence Hall and arrive at stop #4: the Liberty Bell Center. Open daily from 9AM – 5PM, the Liberty Bell Center is free and does not require a reservation (although the line does grow quickly, so the earlier in the day you can visit, the better). Of course, the Liberty Bell Center displays the iconic cracked Liberty Bell, which is one of the most recognized American symbols of freedom and independence- yet nobody knows exactly when or why the bell cracked in the first place!
What is now known as the “Liberty Bell” was first placed in the belfry of the Pennsylvania State House (Independence Hall) in 1753, after a London-made bell (which ironically had cracked on its first test ring) was melted down and re-cast by locals John Pass and John Stow. This bell rang out over Philadelphia during the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitutional Convention (and subsequent adoption of the U.S. Constitution), and for many decades to follow. It is believed that the crack in this bell began to first appear in the 1840s, after nearly 90 years of use. Interestingly, there was an attempt to repair the damaged bell in 1846 in preparation for George Washington’s birthday celebration; however, this repair was unsuccessful and the bell was retired from use (drill bit marks from the attempted repair can still be seen near the crack today).
5 – Independence Hall & Congress Hall
Independence Hall, once known as the Pennsylvania State House, is the most iconic building in Philadelphia and one of the most popular historic sites in the city. Construction on the building began in the autumn of 1735 and continued well into the 1750s (although meetings were held here even while construction projects were ongoing). Numerous famous events occurred within Independence Hall: the Second Continental Congress convened in the Assembly Room of Independence Hall on May 10, 1775, under direction of John Hancock, who served as the President of Congress. In June 1775, George Washington of Virginia was chosen as the Commander-in-Chief of the American Army (not yet truly assembled, although thousands of militia gathered outside Boston). It was in that very Assembly Room that Washington accepted his role and solemnly walked out, unsure of the fate that awaited him. Congress remained in session until August 1, 1775, when they adjourned- a decisive way ahead had yet to be determined.
Within the Assembly Room of Independence Hall, two other very important events occurred: the adoption and signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the Constitutional Convention (to include the adoption and signing of the U.S Constitution) in 1787. Today, the Assembly Room has be restored and furnished to look as it did during the 18th-century. Independence Hall is open daily from 9AM – 5PM and offers guided tours every 15 minutes. Tickets have to be reserved online at recreation.gov for a cost of $1.00 (a handling fee) and if you wish to tour the building, be sure to reserve your tickets well in advance (this can be done up to four months in advance).
Adjacent to Independence Hall is the elegant Congress Hall, which served as the meeting place for the United States Senate and the House of Representatives from 1790 to 1800. Although it was first built as the Philadelphia County Court House, the building went on to serve the unique role of hosting America’s first Congress after the ratification of the United States Constitution. It was also in this building that George Washington was inaugurated President (for his second term) on March 4, 1793 and where John Adams was inaugurated the 2nd President of the United States on March 4, 1797.
Congress Hall is open daily from 9AM – 5PM and offers free tours with no reservations required (they run about every 20 minutes). I recommend touring Congress Hall after your scheduled tour of Independence Hall- simply line up outside of Congress Hall (a park ranger will be present to answer any questions).
6 – Signer’s Garden & the Second Bank of the United States
As you continue through Independence National Historical Park, you will arrive at stop #6: the Signer’s Garden. This small, but beautiful park is dedicated to the signers of the Declaration of Independence and the spirit of freedom. The centerpiece of the garden is a statue known as “the signer.” The statue (which was erected in 1980) is modeled after George Clymer, who was a well-known Philadelphian who signed both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
Nearby is the imposing Second Bank of the United States- and yes, you read that correctly! While the First Bank of the United States stands nearby, the Second Bank of the United States was founded in 1816 under the Madison Administration (it has also been described as the “second federally authorized Hamiltonian national bank”). Although it was liquidated in 1841, during its 25-year existence, it managed dozens of branches around the country. Today, the Second Bank of the United States displays a remarkable Portrait Gallery, which is definitely worth a visit!
7 – Carpenters’ Hall
In 1724, the “Carpenters’ Company of the City and County of Philadelphia” was founded, but it wasn’t until 1770 that construction began on their meeting place known as Carpenter’s Hall. The building wasn’t fully completed until 1775, although it was used prior to that date as a meeting place for many of the city’s organizations and groups. The most famous of these meetings took place from September 5 – October 24, 1774, when the First Continental Congress convened there. Throughout the Revolutionary War, Carpenters’ Hall was used as a hospital by both the American and British Armies and from 1773 – 1791, Benjamin Franklin’s Library Company of Philadelphia occupied the second floor. In 1970, Carpenters’ Hall was designated a National Historic Landmark and today, it is open to the public free of charge.
As you walk towards City Tavern, you will be passing the Museum of the American Revolution. This museum offers a unique experience to see some rare artifacts from the Revolutionary War era (to include General George Washington’s original war tent) and to learn more about the Revolution. This is a good opportunity to visit the museum, if you have the time.
8 – City Tavern
Once deemed “the most genteel tavern in America” by John Adams, City Tavern was once the crown jewel of Philadelphia and a central hub for social and political gatherings. After it opened in December 1773, the tavern quickly became a popular meeting place for patriots and revolutionaries, to include members of the Second Continental Congress and delegates of the Constitutional Convention (Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin all dined at City Tavern). Additionally, it is said that in 1777, General George Washington first met the Marquis de Lafayette here. Over the following years, the tavern continued as a popular spot for celebrations, banquets, and meetings.
In March 1834, the original building caught fire, was badly damaged, and was torn down 20 years later in 1854. In 1975, an exact replica of City Tavern was rebuilt for the 1976 bicentennial. City Tavern operated as an active restaurant and bar for decades; however, the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent slumping business forced the restaurant to close in the fall of 2020 (we were unable to get the full experience, unfortunately). When it is open, it now operates as a museum that is free to the public and does not require a ticket/reservation.
9 – Christ Church
The congregation of Christ Church was founded in 1695 and is considered the birthplace of the American Episcopal Church. The current structure was built between 1727 – 1744, although the steeple was not added until 1754 (this made it the tallest building in the colonies at 196 feet). Christ Church’s congregation included 15 signers of the declaration, numerous founding fathers to include Benjamin Franklin and Robert Morris, the famed Betsy Ross, and was visited by Presidents George Washington and John Adams while the federal capital was in Philadelphia from 1790 – 1800 (you can even visit the Presidential Pew, number 58!). Famous burials within the church and in its churchyard include John Penn (son of William Penn), General Charles Lee, U.S. Constitution signers Jacob Broom and Pierce Butler, and Declaration of Independence signers James Wilson and Robert Morris. Today, Christ Church is a privately managed historic site, but considered an official component of Independence National Historical Park.
10 – Elfreth’s Alley
Considered the oldest continuously inhabited street in America, Elfreth’s Alley dates all the way back to 1703. This stunning alleyway was once the home of shipwrights, silversmiths, furniture builders, and other workers in colonial Philadelphia (it is named after blacksmith Jeremiah Elfreth, who lived on this street in the 1700s). Believe it or not, most of the homes along this alley are still privately owned and lived in! There is also the Elfreth’s Alley Museum, which highlights the history of the historic street and its inhabitants. A stroll down Elfreth’s Alley is sure to be a peaceful and memorable experience- one you don’t want to miss if you are ever in Philadelphia!
11 – Betsy Ross House
Betsy Ross (born Elizabeth Griscom) was a trained upholsterer who lived and worked in Philadelphia with her husband, John Ross. After his life was tragically cut short in 1776, Betsy continued her work as an upholster and supported the war effort by making cartridges and flags for the Continental Army. Of course, Betsy Ross is well-known because she purportedly helped design and create the first American flag, after a meeting with George Washington, Robert Morris, and George Ross. Although crediting her with this honor cannot be confirmed, it is known that she made numerous flags for the army and navy and undoubtedly played a role in the creation of the first American flag. The house that stands today was where she lived during the war years (1776-1779) and where she made many American flags for the military. Today, this circa 1740-1760 house serves as a museum and is open for tours daily from 10AM – 5PM. For more information, check out their website.
12 – Franklin Court Printing Office and Benjamin Franklin Museum
The Franklin Court Printing Office, which is adjacent to a former U.S. Post Office, is managed by the National Park Service and free to visit (no tickets are required). The printing office has two reproduction 18th-century printing presses and often demonstrates their use. Oh, and they even sell printed items right off the press!
Through the long brick passageway, the very one that Benjamin Franklin once traversed to get to and from his home, is Franklin Court. This area was once the site of Benjamin Franklin’s house and today, a metal frame stands to represent it. Interestingly, there are also glass view ports where you can look underground at the original foundation of his house! The Benjamin Franklin Museum is also located here and is open daily from 9AM – 5PM for a fee of $5 for adults and $2 for children ages 4 through 16.
13 – Christ Church Burial Ground
Christ Church Burial Ground, which is associated with the historic church but not to be confused with the burying ground at the actual church, is the final resting place for numerous founding fathers. Within its walls rest five signers of the Declaration of Independence (Benjamin Franklin, Benjamin Rush, Francis Hopkinson, Joseph Hewes, and George Ross), famous naval officers (William Bainbridge, James Biddle, and Thomas Truxtun), and other historical figures such as Samuel Powel and Major William Jackson. This is definitely not to be missed- a stroll through the peaceful walkways of the cemetery provide an opportunity to reflect and pay homage to those who came before us. The Christ Church Burial Ground is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11AM – 5PM and costs $5 per adult and $2 for children 12 and under (the entrance is located on Arch Street).
End of Tour & Recommendations
Thus concludes our walking tour of historic Philadelphia, PA. If you ended at Christ Church Burial Ground, you are actually right by the Independence Visitors Center and parking garage. As mentioned, there are certainly additional historic sites, museums, and points of interest not mentioned here. Feel free to incorporate any or all of this walking tour in your visit and most importantly, have a great time!
If you are looking for an awesome local spot for lunch, we recommend Pat’s King of Steaks (1237 E Passyunk Ave), which is a short 10 minute drive from Independence National Historical Park. Since 1930, Pat’s has made the best Philly cheesesteaks in town and provides the full experience to visitors and locals alike. Enjoy!
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