Few cities can boast of a closer connection to important events in American history than Philadelphia. At the time of the American Revolution, Philadelphia was the largest, busiest port city within the entire British Empire, with the exception of London. The city became one of the centers of the Revolution, playing host to the group of men that would come to be known collectively as “the Founding Fathers.” Even today, many of the city’s most prominent landmarks reflect the nation-shaping events of the 18th century. If you plan to visit the city and its historical sites, here’s a guide to some of the most popular destinations.

The Liberty Bell is one of the most familiar symbols of the city and of the American Revolution in general. Originally suspended in the steeple of Independence Hall (then, Pennsylvania State House), the bell now resides in a specially designed building near the Hall. In addition to providing you with an up-close look at the bell, the Liberty Bell Center gives background information on it through historical documents. The center even displays X-rays that document the bell’s iconic crack, the feature that has cemented its image in so many American minds.

Next to the center is Independence Hall, home to two of the most important events in the nation’s history – the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the signing of the Constitution. The building itself is admirable, as it is an excellent example of the Georgian architecture so popular in the 1700s, and the interior has been elevated to an almost hallowed status through many popular depictions of the aforementioned events of the Revolution. Visitors can take tours of the building for free, but the number of tickets is limited, so you may want to arrive early.

A mere block from Independence Hall, you can learn more about the U.S. Constitution at the National Constitution Center. The building was opened to the public in 2003 with the purpose of communicating both the history and the ongoing effects of the Constitution to anyone who walks through its doors. Although a document that dates back a few hundred years might seem like a dry, academic subject, the center includes exhibits on how those four pages affect issues in the news today, such as the death penalty debate.

If you happen to visit Philly in the summer, and you’d rather hang out in Franklin Square than shuffle from monument to museum, you can always take a minute to learn something about the area’s past from one of the 13 storytelling benches around the park. Simply listen for the bell that signifies a volunteer storyteller is about to begin his or her story. It’s a perfect way to make a day full of fun a little more educational for all members of the family!

As you can see, when you’re looking for a destination that combines the rich history of the colonial era as well as the appeal of a big city, Philadelphia should be at the top of your list.

Taylor Thomas is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Thomas is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to travel.

Taylor Thomas is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Thomas is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to travel. http://www.laserspinelocations.com/philadelphia/

Author Bio: Taylor Thomas is an experienced writer who has written for a number of notable publications. As a lifestyle expert, Mr. Thomas is able to offer advice and insight on a multitude of topics, including those pertaining to travel.

Category: Travel
Keywords: Philadelphia, Philadelphia travel, Philadelphia history, Philadelphia attractions