Philadelphia is one of the most important cities in American history and founding. The First and Second Continental Congresses met in Philadelphia, leading the way to American independence from England. On July 4, 1776, the founders signed the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia, and shortly after the Liberty Bell rang calling citizens to hear the Declaration.
Subsequently, it became the first capital city of the United States of America, from 1790-1800 and was where the Constitution was debated and ratified.
Philadelphia’s rich history provides it with beautiful architecture and important sites for history buffs or patriots to visit. However, Philadelphia also offers many other attractions for tourists and locals alike to enjoy. If you take a trip to Philadelphia, you’ll want to check out these top tourist spots.
Historical Architecture
Philadelphia is one of America’s oldest cities; therefore, it has some beautiful historical buildings that should be on your list of sites to see. The first international skyscraper built in America, by William Lescaze and George Howe, was built in 1932 in Philadelphia. Originally the Philadelphia Saving Fund Society Building, now it is Loew Philadelphia Hotel, one of the most luxurious and friendly hotels in the city center. Other important architectural sites include Christ Church, built in the early 1700s; the Betsy Ross House, a fine example of a colonial working women’s home; The Second Bank of the United States, which now has a portrait by Charles Wilson Peale; City Hall, the city’s largest building built in 1871; and Elfreth’s Alley, the country’s oldest residential street.
United States history
With Philadelphia’s importance in United States history, any visit should include several historically important locations. The Liberty Bell and its famous slits are a must on any tourist’s list. Additionally, you should check out Independence Hall, site of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, where you are led by historical reenactors on a guided tour. If you want to see more about the declaration, you can visit the Declarations Building, where Jefferson wrote it. Next, the National Constitution Center explores the history of the constitution with changing exhibits. If you want to learn more about Benjamin Franklin, then a visit to the American Philosophical Society Museum is a must.
Non-Historical Attractions
Although Philadelphia is steeped in history, it has a lot of appeal for those who don’t want to spend their entire visit reminiscing about history. For family fun, you can take the kids to the Philadelphia Zoo, which was the country’s first zoo, or you can visit Sesame Place, an amusement park located on Sesame Street. If you are interested in art, visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where you can view priceless works of art by various masters as well as reenact famous scenes from Rocky on the stairs. For greenery, visit Fairmont Parks, which are actually made up of 63 separate parks throughout the city. For unique shopping, head to Reading Terminal Market, where you can buy food, Amish handicrafts, jewelery and more.
