Independence Square is often called “the most historic square mile in the nation.” A fitting claim, as the buildings of this noble spot hosted some of the most pivotal events in the history of not only America, but the world.

As the summer of 1776 dawned, with America in the thick of the Revolutionary War, a Virginia farmer named Thomas Jefferson traveled here to Philadelphia to attend the Second Continental Congress. This was the famous meeting of delegates from America’s thirteen colonies. Its central purpose that fateful summer was to decide whether the colonies should declare their independence as a nation. Jefferson, known for his inspiring writing, was voted to draft one of the most important and influential documents in history: the Declaration of Independence.

Oney Judge. Moll. Austin. Hercules. Richmond. Giles. Paris. Christopher Sheels. Joe. These nine names are inscribed on a wall at the President’s House Site. This is where America’s first president, George Washington, lived from 1790 to 1797, while Philadelphia served as the nation’s temporary capital. The names on the memorial wall are those of enslaved people who worked in this house for President Washington.

A dramatic glass structure is home to one of America’s most enduring symbols of freedom: the Liberty Bell. Though it stands quietly today, the iconic bell still calls millions of visitors here each year to learn about its rich, often mythical history—and its unique place in America’s story.

Above the door of Library Hall stands a statue of Benjamin Franklin, inventor, revolutionary—and America’s “first librarian.” When Franklin posed for the statue—believed to be America’s first public monument—he insisted on being depicted wearing a toga. This Roman clothing was Franklin’s nod to the republican style of government central to his ideals. He holds a scepter pointed downward to show his contempt for kings.

The infamous murder of Alexander Hamilton wasn’t just the death of one of America’s most outspoken patriots. It was also the death of one of Hamilton’s greatest dreams: that of a central national bank. That dream lived here, if only briefly, in this beautiful old building with marble columns. This is the First Bank of the United States.

No tour of Philadelphia would be complete without sampling the iconic local specialty: the cheesesteak. There are many stories about where and how this beloved sandwich originated, but the credit often goes to local merchants Pat and Harry Olivieri. According to legend, the pair was running a Philadelphia hot dog stand in the early 1930s when they decided to experiment with a new menu item. A taxi driver waiting for his hot dog saw the experimental sandwich being made and asked if he could have one. He loved it so much he told the owners to pitch the hot dogs and switch to just making the new sandwiches.

Many American flags fly on the homes and buildings here in Philadelphia’s Old City. But the one flying on the house at 239 Arch Street has a controversial history indeed. Because this was, according to some, the house of Betsy Ross, who is believed to have lived in this house from 1776 to 1779. As you probably learned in school, Betsy Ross was the Philadelphia seamstress credited with stitching America’s first flag. And yet, only oral tradition backs up that story. No written accounts, journal entries or other evidence exists to prove it.

Elfreth’s Alley is the oldest continuously inhabited street in the nation. It was founded in 1702 when two local blacksmiths gave up parts of their properties to create a thruway to the river. Their neighbors were metalsmiths, woodworkers, glassblowers and other artisans. You can still see their handiwork in the lovingly crafted colonial doorframes, brass knockers and detailed, multipaned windows of these handsome period homes. Benjamin Franklin often darkened the door of Number 122 to visit a fellow member of the Junto Club.

One of Ben Franklin’s most famous quotes was: “A penny saved is a penny earned.” So you might imagine him turning in his grave each time a visitor tosses another penny onto his headstone. It’s a practice said to bring good luck to the visitor.