Liberty Bell & Independence Hall

The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are the two most historically significant sites in Philadelphia, and both are completely free to visit. Together with the surrounding Independence National Historical Park, they offer a concentrated dose of American founding history that's surprisingly engaging for kids when approached correctly.

The Liberty Bell Center houses the famous cracked bell in a glass pavilion with views of Independence Hall through the windows. The exhibit panels tell the bell's story — from its casting in London in 1752 to its adoption as a symbol of abolition and civil rights. The bell itself is smaller than most visitors expect, which makes it approachable for kids.

The crack is visible and tangible. The security screening to enter the building takes 10-30 minutes depending on the time of day.

Independence Hall, across Chestnut Street, requires timed tickets from March through December (free, but reservations are required at recreation. gov). The ranger-led tour lasts about 30 minutes and takes visitors through the Assembly Room where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed.

Standing in the actual room where Jefferson's words were adopted hits harder than any textbook.

The NPS Junior Ranger program transforms the visit for kids. Free booklets are available at the visitor center with activities that require observation, reading, and exploration throughout the park. Kids who complete the booklet earn an official Junior Ranger badge — a small thing that kids treat with genuine pride.

The Independence Hall area in Old City is surrounded by additional free sites: the Benjamin Franklin Museum (underground), Congress Hall (where George Washington was inaugurated for his second term), and the President's House site. The visitor center at 6th and Market has restrooms, exhibits, and a short orientation film.