Philadelphia is famed for its role in the struggle for independence. Thousands of visitors flock to the more famous sites. After that there is plenty more of interest....

The Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall attract visitors to Philadelphia from all over the world. Two iconic symbols proudly recall the struggles and triumphs that led to the birth of a nation. The history of the United States started in Philadelphia with the ringing of the Liberty Bell. The area is rich in history and many lesser-known historic sites are open to the public.

Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site

530 N. 7th Street, +1 (215) 597-8780

Poet and author Edgar Allen Poe lived here with his family. Follow the master of the macabre around the three storey house where he penned “The Black Cat”. Visitors can freely wander round the three permanent and two changing exhibitions. The more timid can enjoy a guided tour.

Opening hours Wednesday – Sunday 9am to 5pm

Admission – Free of charge

Carpenters’ Hall

320 Chestnut Street, +1 (215) 925-0167

Carpenter’s Hall is where delegates to The First Continental Congress to support a trade embargo against England. This was one of the first unified acts of defiance against the King, and ensured that imports from Britain in 1775 were just 3% of the 1774 total. Visitors can see the delegates’ chairs and the original banner carried during the 1788 Constitutional parade.

Opening hours daily, except Mondays (and Tuesdays in January and February), from 10am-4pm

Admission – Free of Charge

Brandywine Battlefield Historic Site

Box 202, Chadds Ford, PA 19317 +1 (610) 459-3342

30 wiles west of Philadelphia, in 1777 Brandywine was the site of the largest single-day land battle of the American Revolution. Today, visitors can visit a museum where artifacts from the battle are on display. There are also two houses on the site, which are only accessible on guided tours .

The Washington headquarters is the former home of Benjiman Ring, from where Washington commanded his troops. The house was lovingly restored with Revolutionary period decorations following a fire in 1931.

Gideon Gilpin offered lodgings in his home to Marquis de Lafayette a French aristocrat who fought on the American side in the Seven Years’ War. Today, the house recreates what life was like for the 19 year old Frenchman, who was to become one of Washington’s closest friends.

Guided tours of the houses are not always available, but reduced admission charges apply.

Opening Hours – vary by season please contact the museum.

Admission Adults $5.00 Seniors $3.50 Youth (6-17) $2.50 Under 6 Free

Reduced admission when no guided tour Over 12’s $2.50 Others Free

Washington Crossing Historic Park

1112 River Road, Washington Crossing, +1 (215) 493-4076

On Christmas Day 1776, Washington led 2400 men across the icy Delaware River and began the advance towards vital battle victories at Trenton and Princeton. The Washington Crossing Historic Park, 35 miles north-east of Philadelphia, stands at the site of this crossing and visitors can explore the preserved grounds , take a ferry crossing or see the primitive medical services available in the military hospital .

Opening Hours Tues.-Sat., 9am to 5pm Sunday, noon to 5pm (Winter hours may vary)

Admission Tues.-Sat., 9am to 5pm, Sunday, noon to 5pm