Map all locationsAll Historic Philadelphia

American Philosophical Society Museum

Views of science and humanistic thought at Ben Franklin’s intellectual club

Snuggled behind the east wing of Independence Hall is Philosophical Hall, a brick building erected in the late 1780s that was our nation’s first museum, national library and academy of science. Inside, changing exhibitions highlight the intersections of science, history and art. Jefferson’s handwritten copy of the Declaration of Independence and the Lewis and Clark journals are among the important documents, scientific specimens, patent models, portraits, maps, rare books and manuscripts that comprise this remarkable collection.

Architectural Walking Tours with the Preservation Alliance

Take an award-winning stroll through Philadelphia

Explore Philadelphia’s architectural past, present and future during an award-winning guided walking tour with the Preservation Alliance.

Audacious Freedom

African Americans in Philadelphia 1776 – 1876

Audacious Freedom, the major, new exhibit at the African American Museum in Philadelphia, explores the lives of people of African descent living in Philadelphia between 1776 and 1876.

Carpenters’ Hall

Meeting Place of the First Continental Congress

Christ Church

Where Colonial America made its break with the Church of England

Where Colonial America made its break with the Church of England.

Christ Church Burial Ground

Visit the graves of Benjamin Franklin and other early American leaders

City Tavern

Colonial America is recreated at this authentic tavern in Old City

Our Founding Fathers’ favorite haunt — and the fuel-provider during the writing of the Declaration of Independence, City Tavern recreates the Colonial Philadelphia experience

Elfreth’s Alley

The nation’s oldest continuously inhabited street

Butchers. Bakers. Candlestick-makers. Named for blacksmith and property-owner Jeremiah Elfreth, Elfreth’s Alley was home to the 18th century artisans and trades-people who were the backbone of colonial Philadelphia.

Fete Day Celebration at Elfreth’s Alley

Residents on America’s oldest street open their doors

Join Ben Franklin and a cast of historic characters during the annual Fete Day at Elfreth’s Alley. Enjoy food, crafts, music, games and explore more than a dozen 18th century homes.