Visit Independence Hall

Visiting any of the 13 original colonies provides countless opportunities to learn about the founding of a nation. During my travels through the northeastern United States, I’ve walked the Freedom Trail in Boston, stood on the bridge where the first shots of the Revolutionary War were fired, and seen the Bible used by George Washington during his inauguration as the first president of the United States. But my visit to Independence Hall in Philadelphia brought an even better understanding of why brave men and women fought for freedom.

COVID-19 UPDATE: Independence Hall has reopened (As of Jan 1, 2021). They do not require tickets at this time. Tours – limited to nine people – start every 15 minutes and are on a first come, first served basis. Other buildings within Independence Square have different schedules as well.

Philadelphia is a hot spot when it comes to America’s early history. Independence National Historical Site includes several venues relevant to the new nation and creation of the U.S. Constitution. It’s an area you’ll want to explore if you’re in Philadelphia. It’s a spot I would love to re-visit with my oldest son to experience all the history this town has to offer.

Here’s a rundown on each of the buildings, what you’ll see and experience, and how to gain access.

The security check in is on the east side of Independence Hall. Everyone entering Independence Square will need to pass through here. They recommend only bringing small bags with you so you can get through the screening quicker. There are some prohibited items: pepper spray, pocket knives and weapons.

Once through security, head to the start of the tour area, located on the south side of Independence Hall. Tours start every 15 minutes and are on a first come, first served basis.

After a brief orientation, you’ll head in to the rooms where it all happened.

My tour started with the court room on the west side of the building. You can see where the accused would stand trial – literally. They had a box they would stand in during the trial. Thus the term – stand trial.

On the east side of the room you’ll see lots of desks and chairs. The Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were signed in this room. It’s kinda crazy to think that in this little room, a nation was born.

Don’t conclude your visit just yet… there are other buildings and things to explore.

See a copy of the Declaration of Independence at Independence Hall in Philadelphia Carltonaut's Travel Tips

Artifacts in the West Wing

After exiting Independence Hall, I saw an open door in a building just north of where I stepped out. It was the West Wing and now houses multiple artifacts and documents from the birthing of our nation.

COVID-19 UPDATE: As of Feb 1, 2021, this building is closed. Check the NPS website for updates on opening.

Some of the things you can see in the West Wing include:

Original printed copies of the Declaration of Independence
Printed copies of the Articles of Confederation
Original printed copies of the U.S. Constitution
The Syng inkstand is believed to be the silver inkstand used in the signing of the Declaration of Independence

I strongly recommend spending 10 minutes or so in the West Wing, looking at original documents from history.

Step into Congress Hall near Independence Hall in Philadelphia Carltonaut's Travel Tips

Congress Hall: The House and Senate Quarters

I did not know much about the significance of Philadelphia in our nation’s history. I’ve explored Boston and understand it’s role in the Revolution. But listening to the Park Ranger explain what took place in Congress Hall (the spot I was now sitting in) brought history to life.

She explained that the first peaceful exchange of power in the young nation took place in this very room. President George Washington had tears in his eyes as President John Adams took the oath of office. I wonder if those were tears of joy or relief.

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Regardless, the government of the early United States got the ball rolling in this very building. The Park Ranger was fabulous in sharing the stories that allowed me to picture what happened those many years ago.

After touring the House Chamber on the main floor, the Park Ranger takes you up to the second floor. The Senate Chambers is a smaller room, with two meeting rooms off of the main chambers. Pay special attention to the design on the carpet in the Senate Chambers. Visit the Museum of the American Revolution to learn more about the significance of that design.

Explore the American Philosophical Society's museum at Independence Hall in Philadelphia Carltonaut's Travel Tips

American Philosophical Society Museum

The American Philosophical Society Museum had an exhibit on mapping the nation. I enjoyed learning about the instruments used in map making, and seeing the early maps.

COVID-19 UPDATE: As of Feb 1, 2021, this building is closed. Check the American Philosophical Society Museum‘s website for updates.

The American Philosophical Society displays artifacts from their collections around history and science in America. Past exhibits have included writings from Thomas Jefferson, journal pages from Lewis & Clark’s expedition and more. It’s free to explore the museum.

Visit the Senate Chambers on the second floor of Congress Hall in Philadelphia Carltonaut's Travel Tips — The Senate Chambers on the second floor of Congress Hall

The Details

Address: 520 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Cost: There is no cost to tour Independence Hall. Tours begin every 15 minutes and are on a first-come, first-served basis. They’re limited to nine people.

Hours: Open daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Website: https://www.nps.gov/inde/index.htm

Phone: (215) 965-2305

Visit Independence Hall – The Birthplace of a Nation