Looking to find the root of the “I word” (independence) look no further than a trip to the City of Brotherly Love. There are so many history-related sites in Philly that you’d literally be unable to see them all in a week-long vacation. For our afternoon in historic Philadelphia, we’re sticking to an easy plan geographically, highlighting some of the most sought-after sites for history lovers, and a few dining suggestions.
With stops at the iconic Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, we’ll then venture to the nearby American Revolution Museum and Franklin Court. We’ll detour to the folk art installation at Magic Gardens and check out a few favorite dining options at the Hawthorne Cafe, the Bourse Food Hall, and the Franklin Fountain.
Liberty Bell
Sure, call this obvious, but if you’re in Philly you just have to see the Liberty Bell. Along with Plymouth Rock and the Statue of Liberty, seeing the bell in person checks boxes in your ‘Merica history checklist. The bell goes hand in hand, or should I say bell and steeple with our next destination, Independence Hall, as it was the audible beacon of liberty inside the building that is synonymous with American freedom. Although a visit to the bell is free, expect a long line in season. The main reason is due to security reasons. For the bell and Independence Hall, it’s airport-like security to enter. Once inside, the glass structure presents a timeline of the bell. The culmination of the Center is the Liberty Bell itself. And yes, pose for a picture.
Independence Hall
Officially known as the Pennsylvania State House, this building was given the nickname of Independence Hall only in retrospect. The name comes from the major events that occurred within these walls. Only two of the most important events in American history took place within these hallowed walls: the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitutional Convention in which the supreme law of our land was written.
In the present, the hall can be visited via a National Park ranger tour. Reserve your time slot in advance for a measly service charge of one dollar. The tour is 20 minutes in length with a highly informative guide to explain the importance of the building. Visit the two rooms which would change history forever.
Museum of the American Revolution
Speaking of history, our afternoon in historic Philadelphia continues with a stop at the Museum of the American Revolution. The museum, which details just what its name says, is multifaceted. This means the Revolutionary War novice, as well as the expert, will be just as enthralled. Someone just learning about the war, such as my eight-year-old son, can participate in a scavenger hunt which made him interact with each display in a way that was on par with his learning level. The seasoned veteran can spend even longer reading each and every sign on each and every display. From artifacts to interactive presentations, this museum blends the old and the new, making the war come to life but preserving history for posterity at the same time.
Franklin Court and Environs
Before we leave our revolutionary experience, let’s stop in with Old Ben. Sure he was born in Boston but this renaissance man is synonymous with Philly. Franklin Court is one-stop Ben Franklin shopping. Stop into the active post office to get your postcard (bring your own) hand canceled and stamped with the inscription “B. Free Franklin.” He was, among many other things, postmaster of Philadelphia. There is a historic display of post office history here.
Franklin Court contains skeletal visions, also known as “ghost buildings” of what his house looked like. It also holds a Benjamin Franklin Museum which contains enough Franklin artifacts to satisfy even the most fervent Franklin-ite.
Magic Gardens
Veering off the revolutionary path for a while brings us to the Magic Gardens. The Magic Gardens is, well, to be cliche, magical. The history here goes back to the ‘60s, not the 1760s but the 1960s. South Street, yes where all the hippies meet, was in the shadow of the wrecking ball. Left derelict, this became an artist enclave.
The Magic Gardens is the work of mosaic extraordinaire, Isaiah Zagar. The gardens began in the 90s and grew exponentially, until 2008 when they opened to the public. Trudging through uphill legal battles, the Magic Gardens has become one of Philadelphia’s most unique art installations. Turning vacant lots into a mosaic-strewn labyrinth, with everyday junk embedded in its walls, is simply a place that you must experience on your own. Mere words do not do justice. The gallery consists of an outdoor expanse and an indoor gallery. Notice other buildings nearby adorned with Zagar’s signature mosaics. It’s not Revolutionary with an uppercase “R” but it is still revolutionary with a lowercase “r.” Check it out.
Hungry yet? I sure am! The following are three recommendations for some chow for your afternoon in historic Philadelphia.
The Hawthorne Cafe
The Hawthorne easily blends trendy and family-friendly. The menu features the best of breakfast and lunch (I guess that’s called brunch). From Belgian waffles to falafel sandwiches, everything is tasty. There’s a large area for al fresco dining if that’s your thing. The beer menu is small but stellar, if that’s your thing. I guess my thing is the Hawthorne since I enjoyed it very much. And it’s only a few short blocks from the Magic Gardens.
The Bourse Food Hall
Located right in the middle of all things historic in the Old City, the Bourse Food Hall offers something for everyone. Hawaiian poke? Cheesesteaks? Fries? Spirits? Coffee? All of the above and 25 more vendors are located in the Bourse Building, a stately commodities exchange which dates from the late 19th century.
Franklin Fountain
Although the Franklin Fountain was founded only 20 years ago, it seems as if it is from a bygone era. It looks like an old soda fountain/ice cream bar. Choose from an array of ice cream flavors, sundaes and other delicious creations. During the time of my visit, Sweet Potato was the flavor of the month! A visit here may not bring you back to Ben Franklin’s days but it sure feels out of time in 2024!
For all you Philly aphicionados, check out this afternoon in historic Philadelphia. It’s not extensive, since there are so many more 18th-century sites and museums to see, including the Betsy Ross House, the National Consitution Center, and Elfreth’s Alley, as well as plenty of other museums such as the Philadelphia Art Museum, the Barnes Foundation, and the Franklin Institute. But what this does give you is a condensed, easy to walk afternoon with some of the revolutionary-era highlights with a little folk art and a bite to eat sprinkled in.
Still in the mood for some more Philly phun? Check out A Weekend in Philadelphia and A Philadelphia Adventure. And the Backyard Road Trips podcast episode about this trip.
