Written by: Campus Philly Editorial Interns, Ashley Cappetta & Brenna Fallows
- Did you know that our Stars & Stripes were designed by Betsy Ross? The Betsy Ross House is still standing today, where visitors can take in the sights and sounds of the American flag’s birthplace. 239 Arch Street. 10am-5pm.
- Did you know Elfreth’s Alley is the United States’ oldest residential neighborhood? Today, the museum and alley tours offer a glimpse into the lives of everyday colonial Americans. Spend an afternoon strolling along the thirty-two houses, built between 1728 and 1836, or take a guided tour for just $5. Museum: 124-126 Elfreth’s Alley. Fri-Sun 12pm-5pm.
- Did you know that the crack in the Liberty Bell is a heavily debated subject among historians? One theory is that the Bell was first cracked in 1752 upon its arrival in Philadelphia! 526 Market Street. 9am-8pm.
- Independence Hall is most notably the “birthplace” of the United States. Did you know that within its walls both the Declaration of Independence was adopted and the Constitution of the United States was signed? 520 Chestnut Street. 9am-8pm.
- Did you know that Benjamin Franklin was a writer, inventor, printer, scientist, and diplomat? Learn more about this important Philadelphian and his life here at the Benjamin Franklin Museum, part of the National Parks Service. 317 Chestnut Street. 9am-5pm.
- Did you know that Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence during the Second Continental Congress in 1776? The Declaration House housed Jefferson for the three weeks it took him to write the document. 599 S. 7th Street. 12pm-5pm.
- With more than 14.5 acres of floor space, City Hall is the largest municipal building in the United States. Did you know that construction took more than three decades to complete? In fact, City Hall is the tallest masonry structure in the world! 1401 JFK Blvd. 9am-5pm.
- One of the most influential documents in the world, and the supreme law of the United States, is only four pages long. Celebrate the U.S. Constitution, authored by the Philadelphia Convention, and the Constitution Center. Life-size bronze statues of the men who debated and signed this document populate its Signers’ Hall. 525 Arch Street. 9:30am-5pm.
- America’s first Fourth of July celebration was held at City Tavern in 1777. Over the years, famous visitors to the tavern have included Paul Revere, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington. Today, the restaurant preserves a colonial tavern feel with an authentic menu and costumed staff. 138 S. Second Street.
- The first commemorative Independence Day fireworks were set off on July 4th, 1777! Did you know that we celebrate with fireworks because John Adams wanted us to? In fact, he envisioned fireworks as part of the celebration in a letter to Abigail Adams on July 3rd, 1776!Be sure to check out our Fourth of July itinerary and patriotic perks!
