The National Constitution Center is an interactive museum, national town hall, and civic education headquarters located steps from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell in Historic Philadelphia. Step inside and be inspired by must-see exhibitions, live performances, rare artifacts, and hands-on activities that bring the Constitution to life for all ages.
Originally known as the Pennsylvania State House, Independence Hall has hosted many historic milestones: George Washington was appointed commander in chief of the Continental Army here in 1775, the Declaration of Independence was adopted here on July 4, 1776, the design of the American flag was agreed upon here in 1777, the Articles of Confederation were adopted here in 1781, and the U.S. Constitution was drafted and signed here in 1787.
As the official bell of the Pennsylvania State House (today called Independence Hall), the Liberty Bell rang many times for public announcements before it cracked in the 1800s. The old State House bell was first called the “Liberty Bell” by abolitionists, who adopted it as a symbol of their cause. Inscribed with the words “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof,” the bell serves as an icon of freedom.
Independence Visitor Center helps you make the most of your visit to Philadelphia and The Countryside. Here you'll find maps, brochures and tickets to over 50 tours and attractions. Make it your first stop for the Philadelphia region's best event, touring, and lodging information.
Take a sightseeing tour of Philadelphia on board a Victorian trolley or a double-decker bus. The highly trained staff of Philadelphia Trolley Works and Big Bus Tours will enlighten and entertain you with historical tales, cultural highlights, and stories of the city’s past, present, and future. A 24-hour pass gives you unlimited on/off privileges at each of the tour’s 20 stops, including the National Constitution Center.
The Constitutional Walking Tour is a great way to experience America’s birthplace by foot, taking you behind the scenes of the places where other tours cannot venture. See more than 20 of Historic Philadelphia’s top sites on a 75-minute outdoor walking adventure through Independence National Historic Park, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Declaration House, Betsy Ross House, and more.
One of Philadelphia’s five original squares, Franklin Square is a magnet for families and kids of all ages. Take a ride on the Philadelphia Park Liberty Carousel, putt your way through a miniature version of Philadelphia with Philly Mini Golf, grab a bite to eat at SquareBurger, and enjoy the beautiful grounds. Located steps from the National Constitution Center, Franklin Square maintains an active calendar of special events, particularly during warm-weather months.
Located on the nation’s most historic square mile is the Hotel Monaco Philadelphia, a Kimpton Hotel. This four-diamond boutique hotel offers spectacular accommodations, superb service, Red Owl Tavern, and Stratus Rooftop Lounge, the place to be seen. Surrounded by historic attractions, museums, art galleries, restaurants—and only two blocks from the National Constitution Center.
Conveniently located just six blocks from the National Constitution Center, Loews Philadelphia Hotel offers modern amenities and exceptional service while maintaining its historic richness. The once-renowned PSFS Bank building has been brilliantly renovated into a full-service luxury hotel that provides guests with breathtaking views of the city and an award-winning dining locale. Special pricing is available with a National Constitution Center package.
Home to the National Constitution Center, the Old City District of Philadelphia is full of hip restaurants, night spots, art galleries, and entertainment to add some flavor to your Historic Philadelphia experience.
Join Once Upon a Nation for walking tours of the nation’s founding footsteps, led by specially trained guides. On the “Independence After Hours” tour, prepare yourself for a V.I.P. night—Colonial style! Enjoy a delicious, three-course meal at historic City Tavern before heading out on an evening adventure at Independence Hall. Or, join in on “Tippler’s Tour: A Colonial Pub Crawl,” as you wind your way through the streets of Old City enjoying drinks and a little sip of history at Colonial and modern-day watering holes.
Just one block from the National Constitution Center, the President’s House commemorative site is an open-air installation designed to give visitors a sense of the house where the first two presidents of the United States, George Washington and John Adams, served their terms of office. The site pays homage to nine documented enslaved persons of African descent who were part of the Washington household and addresses the topic of slavery in the early history of the United States.
Experience Philadelphia sightseeing from a duck’s-eye view on Ride the Ducks, Philadelphia’s original duck tour. Travel on land and water in one amazing vehicle. Tour Historic Philadelphia and splash into the Delaware River at Penn’s Landing.
The Spirits of ’76 Ghost Tour of Philadelphia is one part history, two parts haunt! Travel the cobblestone streets of Old City to hear chilling stories about the spirits of ’76. Dare to visit more than 20 of Philly’s frights and sights on a ghoulish, 75-minute outdoor walking journey through historic (and haunted) Philadelphia.
Monday - Friday: 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday: 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
525 Arch Street
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106
215.409.6600