Presidents George Washington and John Adams both lived here when Philadelphia was Capitol of the United States. Originally a privately-owned mansion, c. 1767, hear about the Pennsylvania “royalty” who lived here, the invasion of Philadelphia, and the site’s treasonous activity.

An iconic symbol of American freedom. View this historic bell from the outside and hear about its 274-year history. “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof!”

Congress Hall, c. 1789, served as the very first United States Capitol. This was where the federal government of the United States convened from 1790-1800.

The United States was born here! The U.S. Constitution was created here! Huzzah! Independence Hall, c. 1733, was the Pennsylvania State House for more than forty years before America separated from Britain in 1776. If only the walls could talk.

The newly formed United State supreme court convened here when Philadelphia was the temporary capitol of the nation. President George Washington chose the first justices. This building, formerly City Hall, c. 1790, witnessed the best legal minds in the new country, including Alexander Hamilton.

This museum is located in Philosophical Hall, c. 1789. Exhibits change annually. Ben Franklin founded the APS in 1743 for the purpose of “promoting useful knowledge.”

A carved figure of Benjamin Franklin occupies the center façade of this building—a fitting tribute to the man who founded the oldest learning society in the U.S. This extraordinary library is home to a world-renowned collection. Reconstructed 1959.

Learn about the Father of the U.S. Navy and his amazing exploits at sea during the American Revolution.

The Second Bank of the United States, c. 1824, is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture. This building was once a financial hub for the nation.

Admire the forgotten founding father. Robert Morris: patriot, statesman, financier and leader in the American Revolution. Yet he’s barely known today. From greatness to obscurity: What happened to him?

The site of the First Continental Congress, the colonies’ first step towards independence. Delegates from twelve colonies gathered here in 1774 to address their problems with Britain.