Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love (as literally translated from its Greek origins,) is bursting with the spirit of colonial times. Not only did it function as America’s capital city while Washington D.C. was being built, but it also served as home to the busiest port of the original thirteen colonies. Follow Philly’s cobblestone streets and take a step back in time with these three must-dos in colonial Philadelphia.
1. Your visit to Philadelphia wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Independence Hall. Honored as a World Heritage Site, it’s the venue where the Founding Fathers gathered to debate and create the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. History buffs will appreciate its bell tower that served as the original home for the Liberty Bell (ceremoniously rung in 1776 as the Declaration of Independence was read.)
2. Join 1.5 million people who visit this international icon of freedom every year at the Liberty Bell Center on Independence Mall. Interestingly, the bell was only named in 1839 when William Lloyd Garrison, a prominent social reformer, first referenced it in The Liberator, a publication that promoted the United States anti-slave movement.
3. The third must-do? The National Constitution Center, dedicated to the history of the Constitution and what it means in the lives of Americans. Filled with original old photographs, artifacts, texts, sculpture and even a theater, it’s one of the more engaging places to get the download on U.S. history.
Lastly, one no brainer must-do? Save room for Philly Cheesesteak while you load up on colonial history. (Honored by the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, it’s one serious sandwich.)