Visit Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Independence Hall was the site of several of America’s defining moments in history. Once known as Pennsylvania State House, colonial leaders and Founding Fathers met here to debate and shape our new Nation. On July 4, 1776 delegates voted ratify our Declaration of Independence while later crafting our United States Constitution which now marks Constitution Day each September. Independence Hall also houses our iconic Liberty Bell which attracts visitors.

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Visits to the complex are well worth your time in Philadelphia. As an historic monument protected by the National Park Service, visitors can explore all six rooms within this secure building as well as additional spaces that shed light on America’s past.

At the front entrance, a complex is comprised of a gated entryway and information kiosk providing an overview of its history and significance of Liberty Bell. Next is a security checkpoint where visitors must pass through bag checks and have their tickets verified before entering.

Once inside, visitors begin their tour in the Supreme Court Room where guides offer historical accounts of court cases handled during this era (the US Supreme Court met in another room of this tour). Next stop: Assembly Room where delegates from 13 colonies debated and voted on a new national government in 1776 before eventually signing onto and ratifying its newly created document: the US Constitution on September 17, 1787.

Congress held its sessions here for much of the Revolutionary War, with only two interruptions: in December 1776 when Congress left for Baltimore and again in September 1777 when they moved on to York, Pennsylvania. When Congress returned after the Revolution, however, they would stay until June 1783 when an angry mob invaded and caused chaos; congress eventually fled Lancaster while this building lay abandoned for years to come.

Today, this site forms part of Independence National Historical Park, established in 1848 by Congress to preserve buildings and landscape associated with the Declaration of Independence and founding of the United States. This park includes Independence Hall, Old City Hall and Congress Hall as well as period structures like Carpenters’ Hall and Graff House; additionally it offers museums, libraries, gardens and exhibits for visitors to experience.