Philly your boots
Democracy in America has come a long way since the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
If you want to immerse yourself in the nation’s fascinating 245-year history there’s no better place than Philadelphia, regarded as the birthplace of its rule by the people.
The first Unesco World Heritage City in the US has a wealth of historic sights to enjoy so we’ve teamed up with the local tourist board to unearth the Philly facts from the past...
Both the Declaration and the US Constitution were debated and signed in Philadelphia at Independence Hall, which is at the heart of the city’s historic centre and is one of the most visited monuments in the country.
It’s home to the nation’s first university and first daily newspaper, The Philadelphia Packet and Daily Advertiser. Other firsts include the post office, firefighting service, hospital and zoo.
From 1790 to 1800 it was the US’s capital and George Washington was inaugurated as the first President in Congress Hall, by Independence Hall, in the wider Independence National Historical Park.
The Liberty Bell was originally called the State House Bell and was located in the Pennsylvania State House, before being renamed Independence Hall.
Elfreth’s Alley has 32 houses and is the oldest continuously inhabited street in the nation, with its properties being built between 1703 and 1836.
Franklin Square was one of five public squares laid out by William Penn, the founder of Philadelphia, in his original vision for the city.
It is also rumoured to be the spot where Benjamin
Franklin carried out his kite-and-key experiment to show the connection between lightning and electricity. Today it’s a popular family play area with a 180-year-old fountain and vintage carousel.
US patriot Betsy Ross – she sewed the first American flag – called Philly home and you can visit her house on Arch Street.
Dating from 1809, Walnut Street Theatre is the oldest continuously operating performance theatre in the English-speaking world. It later became the first to offer air conditioning, gas footlights and electric chandeliers, and is where the curtain call originated.
Elfreth’s Alley is the oldest continuously inhabited street in US
The City of Brotherly Love is very much a 21st century destination too – visit discoverPHL.com for tourism ideas both old and new.