Independence National Historical Park

Independence National Historical Park

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Quick Facts

Independence National Historical Park

Pennsylvania

(215) 965-2305

Map Directions

Things To Do

 

Overview

Independence National Historical Park, located in downtown (called "Center City"), Philadelphia, is often referred to as the birthplace of this nation. At the park, visitors can see the Liberty Bell, an international symbol of freedom, and Independence Hall, a World Heritage Site where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were created. In addition, the park interprets events and the lives of the diverse population during the years when Philadelphia was the capital of the United States from 1790 to 1800. A section of the park where Benjamin Franklin's home once stood is dedicated to teaching about Franklin's life and accomplishments. Spanning approximately 45 acres, the park has about 20 buildings open to the public. Independence National Historical Park is many things to many people. It is, of course, as it was intended to be, a national shrine. The events that took place here two centuries ago, and the buildings and objects associated with them, are what attract visitors from every state in the Union and almost every country around the globe. This place where this nation began, arouses deep feelings.

Map of Independence

Latitude, Longitude: 39.948372, -75.150433

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Activities

  • Historic Sites

    Popular attractions include visiting Liberty Bell Hall, Franklin Court, Carpenters' Court, and Independence Square. Congress Hall, Old City Hall, and the National Constitution Center are all easily accessible from these destinations.

Seasonality/Weather

our distinct seasons with moderately cold winter and hot, humid summer. January average temperature, 33 F; July average temperature, 75 F; average yearly rainfall, 41 inches; normal seasonal snowfall, 21 inches.

Directions

Driving

The Independence Visitor Center is located at the corner of 6th and Market Streets in Center City, Philadelphia. The Park is easily reached via I-95, I-76 and I- 676. From South: Take I-95 north. Follow signs for "Central Phila./I-676". Exit onto 6th Street. Take 6th Street south to the underground parking garage entrance between Arch and Market Streets. From West: PA Turnpike (I-76) and exit at interchange 24, the Schuykill Expressway (I-76). Take Schuykill Expressway (I-76) to I-676 exit, Central Philadelphia. This is a left lane exit. Take I-676 to 8th Street exit and follow the signs for Independence Hall. Take 8th Street south to Market Street, turn left on Market Street. Take Market Street to 5th Street, turn left on 5th Street. A parking garage will be in the middle of the block on the left.

Flying

Philadelphia International Airport, eight miles from Center City, is served by all major domestic carriers as well as a gateway for flights from Europe, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. The SEPTA Airport Line connects the airport with Center City.

Public Transportation

SEPTA (Southeast Pennsylvania Transportation Authority)--Subway, trolley, and bus service throughout the city and area. The Market-Frankford subway line stops one block from the Independence Visitors' Center at 5th and Market Streets. Multiple bus routes run along Market Street as well. Visitors can take SEPTA'S regional rail line (R1, R2, R3, R5, R7 & R8). The closest stop to the park is Market-East Station at 11th and Market Streets. For more information, call (215) 580-7800. Visitors can also take PATCO (Port Authority Transit Corporation) speedline and the closest PATCO stop is at 8th and Market Streets. For more information, call (856) 772-6900.

Phone Numbers

Primary

(215) 965-2305

Links