The Independence National Historical Park is one of the sites that aim to preserve memoirs related to the American Revolution. Also known as America's most historic square mile, this 55-acre park is often visited by locals and travelers for its abundance of landmarks. It is can be accessed by riding the city's transit from the Market-Frankford line going to the 5th street station.
Inside the Independence National Historical Park lies the Liberty Bell, an important symbol in American Independence. It was bespoke from London and cast with inscriptions referring to a part of Leviticus 25:10, which talks about liberty. Since 1885, the city's local government allowed the bell to be taken to numerous patriotic assemblies and expositions, making it more popular through the years.
The centerpiece of the Independence National Historical Park is the Independence Hall. It was completed in 1753 and was used during the Declaration of Independence. Because of the various important political events that happened in this hall, it was declared as one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites and serves as an emblem to promote universal respect for culture and justice.
With more than 227,000 world-class collections of artistic items, the Museum of Art is considered among the grandest and largest art museums in the US. It is located at the west end of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and also keeps more than 200,000 books and other reading materials. Every year, more than 25 special exhibitions are showcased in the museum that draws many spectators within Philly and from other states.
The former American prison of the Eastern State is famous for holding some of the notorious criminals recorded in history. Among the famous offenders confined here are Al Capone and Willie Sutton. Though it was considered the most expensive public edifice ever built, it was used as a pattern by most prisons even outside the US as it can house more than 300 prisoners.
If you think that history can only be found inside the Independence Park, you might be surprised to know that Philly also has a very historical zoo. The first American Zoo was established here and was named after the city itself. It is a place where families can gather and see wild, extinct and other local animals or even adopt some of them. Apart from communing with the animals, there are lots of gardens and exhibitions to enjoy, too.
The Reading Terminal Market is not your ordinary farmer's market. If you're up for a gastronomic trip of freshly prepared delicacies, snacks, meals and breads, this place is for you. You can also see fresh flowers and kitchenware inside so if you're planning to take your mom to a date that she will truly enjoy, hop into a bus or drive your car down the Reading Terminal Market.
Originally intended for kids seven years old and younger, this museum has grown into a great facility both for children and adults. It was initially called the Academy of Natural Sciences, but later on renamed as they moved. The museum aims to help under-resourced families and hosts lots of programs and plays. Some of the attractions in the museum are the Walking Piano, the Woodside Park carousel and the Alice in Wonderland play area.
According to legend, Betsy Ross was the lady who made the first American Flag. In honor of her, the people of the United States observe the Flag Day every 14th of June. To mark this event, the Betsy Ross House is given tribute by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and raising the national flag on its roof.
The Franklin Square is a public space that is perfect for outgoing families who want to jog, stroll, bike, play or relax. It is one of the city's five original squares and is open daily from 6:00 AM until 9:00 PM. Apart from walking around the lovely park, there's also an 18-hole mini golf here that both children and adults can enjoy.
