Check out the inventions of Benjamin Franklin at his museum in Philadelphia carltonauts travel tips
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Visit the Benjamin Franklin Museum in Philadelphia

Did you know that Benjamin Franklin gave pet squirrels to friends? They weren’t white elephant gifts, either. I guess having pet squirrels was a thing back the late 1700s. While most people picture Benjamin Franklin flying a kite in a lighting storm, he was much more than that. The Benjamin Franklin Museum in Philadelphia is…

Vintage American La France firetruck at Fireman's Hall Museum carltonauts travel tips
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Explore Fireman’s Hall Museum in Philadelphia

Firefighters have a long history of running into burning buildings to save people. The men and women firefighters of Philadelphia are no different. The Fireman’s Hall Museum shares vintage artifacts, vehicles and history to honor those who have served – and continue to serve – the communities. While you’re exploring the many historical sites in…

Visit Independence Hall in Philadelphia Carltonaut's Travel Tips
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Visit Independence Hall – The Birthplace of a Nation

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…

Plan your visit to the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia Carltonaut's Travel Tips
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Visit the Betsy Ross House

Experience colonial times as you explore the Betsy Ross House in historic Philadelphia. The little house just down the street from the National Constitution Center shares the life of Betsy Ross, the seamstress who’s credited with sewing the first flag of the United States of America. You can enjoy a virtual tour of the house…

Grab a selfie with George Washington at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia Carltonaut's Travel Tips
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National Constitution Center in Philadelphia

Feel the purpose and power of the Constitution of the United States of America at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. It’s more than just a collection of artifacts. It’s an interactive classroom that gives you a deeper understanding of why the Constitution begins with three simple words: “We the People…” Philadelphia offers so much…

Brawl at Harvard Yard at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia Carltonaut's Travel Tips
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Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia

While on business in Philadelphia, I was excited to spend some time at the Museum of the American Revolution. I’d walked the Freedom Trail in Boston and stood on the bridge in Massachusetts where the famed “Shot Heard Round the World” was, well… heard. So learning about the American Revolution as a whole was intriguing….

Your guide to Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania Carltonaut's Travel Tips
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Celebrate Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney, Penn.

My brother-in-law’s favorite holiday is Groundhog Day. I’m not sure what places it over the typical favorites of Christmas, Thanksgiving or Easter. But I’ve heard his Groundhog Day parties are legendary. He and his wife visited Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, to experience Groundhog Day at its source a couple years ago. I asked them for a rundown…

Tour a WWI Battle Cruiser and a Submarine at the Independence Seaport Museum in Philadelphia Carltonaut's Travel Tips
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Independence Seaport Museum in Philadelphia

There’s something about climbing through the hatches of a submarine or walking the decks of a World War I battle cruiser. The Independence Seaport Museum in Philadelphia allows you to do just that. Beyond exploring the two vessels, the museum has several exhibits to help you learn about boats, ships, pirates, water and more. Check…

Photos of Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia Carltonaut's Travel Tips
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Explore Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia

Touring a penitentiary may not be on your Bucket List of things to do before you die. But if you’re in Philadelphia, I recommend a visit to the Eastern State Penitentiary. There’s history, intrigue and ruins that provide a different perspective on prisons, and gave me some great photo opps, too. Here’s a rundown on…