Philly: Old & New

Philly is a city of firsts! Explore the historic and iconic sights of Philly from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell to Christ Church and the First National Bank. Continue the fun with roller skating and outdoor games at nearby Penn’s Landing and end the night with some delicious historic ice cream!

About:

Philadelphia is remembered as the birthplace of our nation. In the heart of Old City you will find Independence Mall, where you can visit historic and iconic sites like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Constitution Center, and the historic Christ Church burial ground, resting place of Benjamin Franklin. As you explore the historic sites at Independence Mall be sure to walk the lawn and visit the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. At the North end of the Mall you will find the Constitution Center and nearby is the US Mint. On the East side of the park you can walk by the Christ Church burial grounds, where Benjamin Franklin is buried, and by the Betsy Ross house on the way to Christ Church. Also in the area is the first National Bank, Washington Square, and the National Museum of American Jewish History.

After learning about American history by exploring the sites of these iconic Philly firsts, walk down a few blocks to Penn’s Landing where you can roller skate at Blue Cross RiverRink or explore the outdoor games and hammocks at Spruce Street Harbor Park. Check out some historic and delicious eats in the area by exploring the EMC Dining Guide and round out the evening with a yummy dessert at the iconic Franklin Fountain!

Quick Links:

Old City General Info:
Liberty Bell Center: ​Tips: Be prepared for long lines to get in; visitors must pass through security. The liberty bell can also be seen through the window outside the building if lines are too long or if you don’t make it by 7pm.

Independence Hall:Tips: Walk in tickets are available for free, but timed tours fill up early in the day. We recommend you order tickets in advance. 

National Museum of American Jewish History:
  • Price: Pay what you wish after 5pm on Wednesdays
  • Summer Hours: Wednesdays, 10am-8pm
  • Website

Political Fest (Sessions V and VI only):
  • From July 22-27 checkout the Political Festival at various museums and sites around the city in honor the Democratic National Convention held in Philly that week.  
  • Price: $6.50 per student (including processing fee)

Betsy Ross House:

Christ Church:
  • Visit the first Episcopal Church, where founding fathers and mothers like Benjamin Franklin and his wife, George Washington, and Betsy Ross attended services.
  • Website​
Tips: The Church closes at 5pm but it is worth walking around outside to check out the grounds of this historic church.

Other Places near Independence Mall:
​Spruce Street Harbor Park

Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest:
  • Price: $13 per person ($3 to skate, $10 skate rental)
  • Hours: Open until 11pm
  • Website

Franklin Fountain:
Food Options Near Independence Mall:

Location

Various Locations in Old City Philadelphia