Independence Hall

Independence Hall in Philadelphia is a modest red-brick building of enormous consequence: here the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776 and the Constitution drafted in 1787. A UNESCO site and the birthplace of the United States, it is seen on a ranger tour of the very room where the founders debated, alongside the famous cracked Liberty Bell.

What to look for

• The Assembly Room - the room where independence was declared and the Constitution written.
• The Liberty Bell - the famous cracked bell in its pavilion across the street.
• The tour - the ranger-led visit into the historic chambers.
• Independence National Historical Park - the surrounding blocks of founding-era history.

When to go

Year-round; a fully indoor and walkable site good in any weather. In the busy season a free timed ticket is needed for the hall, so get one early in the day.

Things to know

The hall is seen only on a ranger tour, and in peak season needs a free timed ticket that goes quickly, so plan the morning around it. It is a modest building whose power is its history rather than grandeur. The Liberty Bell often has its own queue.

Nearby

The Liberty Bell, the old city and the Reading Terminal Market are all within walking distance in Philadelphia.

Key facts