The red-bricked Georgian building in the midst of the 45-acre (18.2-hectare) Independence National Historical Park is one of the most recognizable historical landmarks in the nation, emblematic of the culmination of a series of epoch-making events that led to the birth of an independent America. The place where both the Declaration of Independence (1776) and the Constitution of the United States (1787) were signed, the Independence Hall has come to be synonymous with the the ideas of freedom and democracy that the declaration is hinged on, and stands tall on Philadelphia's historic Chestnut Street, flanked by side wings and a steeple. Constructed between 1732 and 1753, the famed Independence Hall was the brainchild of Andrew Hamilton and Edmund Woolley, and also served as the meeting place for the Second Continental Congress and the Constitutional Convention. The iconic Liberty Bell is located right around the corner, although its original home was Independence Hall's bell tower.
Barclay Farm House is a Federal-style farmhouse dating back to the 19th Century. Spanning across 32 acres (12.95 hectares) of land, the farmhouse features a herb garden, farm buildings, playground, community gardens, orchard and nature trails following River Cooper. Besides numerous tours of the interiors, the house also plays host to outdoor concerts, craft fairs and other such cultural events. If you want to glimpse at a slice of local history and culture, then a visit to Barclay Farm House can be a great idea. Note that besides the usual timings, Barclay Farm House is also open to the public on the first Sunday of every month from April to November between 12p to 4p.
The Delaware Art Museum is a grandiose exhibition space that features an impressive collection of paintings and illustrations belonging to the Pre-Raphaelite period and the artistic trend of 19th and 20th Century America. Here, you get to see artworks by masterminds like Dante Rossetti, Simeon Solomon, Thomas Dewing, Raphaelle Peale, among several others. Besides featuring an awe-inspiring collection, the museum also hosts various art-related activities like exhibitions and workshops. Apart from that, the various halls located within the premises of the Delaware Art Museum are rented out for corporate functions, meetings, private gatherings, cocktail parties, and several other events.
Named after the American revolutionary leader Caesar Rodney, John J. Raskob built a historic and public square- Rodney Square in the 20th century and is now considered as the pulse of the city. The square is used for festivals and other celebrations. It is a perfect blend of architecture from ancient to modern time which includes Italian Renaissance, Classical Revival, Beaux-Arts and Moderne.
During the day this park is alive with skateboarders, sunbathers and dog walkers; at night couples stroll on romantic walks. The natural sanctuary of lovely trees and green grass is surrounded by one of the city's most upscale eating, shopping and residential districts. Renamed Rittenhouse Square in 1825 for esteemed clockmaker and astronomer David Rittenhouse, this spot is the ideal place to take refuge from modern distractions. A few steps down the path at any of the six gates, and the noise and traffic of the city seem to disappear.
Built between 1698-1700, Gloria Dei (Old Swedes') Church survives today as the oldest church in Pennsylvania. The church is known as Old Swedes because Swedish pioneers were the first to settle the area in 1646. There is a fine collection of religious historical and religious artifacts the church has acquired over three centuries, including bronze crosses and 18th Century bibles in Swedish and English. The building itself is a perfectly preserved example of 18th Century public architecture. Today the church is still owned and maintained by its congregation of Episcopalians. The church is part of the Independence National Historical Park system.
Founded in 1830, this Catholic church serves the heart of Philadelphia by providing worship services and prayer. St. John Neumann, who is remembered for his efforts to establish a parochial school system in Philadelphia and for his devoted care toward immigrants, was consecrated here in 1852. His funeral was held at this church in 1860. William Penn's great-great grandson, Thomas Penn Gaskell, is buried in the cemetery next to the church. A statue of Mary, erected in 1857 survived an 1899 fire.
The Arch Street United Methodist Church is an extraordinary example of Gothic Revival architecture. Founded in 1862, this striking white marble building is in excellent condition and houses a Stanbridge organ built in 1870. Arch Street was probably the first church in Philadelphia to fully integrate its membership when it welcomed participation by Roman Catholic leaders in the 1960s. The Church is also noted for its efforts to help the homeless, for starting Native American ministries, and for sponsoring AIDS awareness activities. Open sundays 8:30am onwards.
St. Mark's Episcopal Church was dedicated in 1850 and is one of Philadelphia's most attractive churches. The architect was John Notman, who also designed the Athenaeum and the Church of the Holy Trinity on Rittenhouse Square. Built in the Gothic Revival style, the beauty and elegance of the parish buildings and garden are reminiscent of those found in England. A notable feature of St. Mark's Church is the silver altar in the chapel.
One of the most vital transportation hubs in the region, this underground station serves all of SEPTA's Regional Rail lines except the R6 Cynwyd. Pedestrian connections can be made at station level to the Market Frankford High Speed Line and at street level to many bus routes. Market East is adjacent to The Gallery, a popular downtown mall, and near attractions such as the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Jefferson Hospital, and Hard Rock Café. Both Chinatown and the Historic District are within walking distance.
The existing structure of the Arch Street Presbyterian Church was constructed in 1855 and features an impressive Classical Revival style design that places it in stark contrast with the surrounding modern buildings. With a vast and eventful history, the church has survived periods of decline with grace and perseverance, standing tall even today. The church is truly a beautiful sight, with a design reminiscent of Greek and Roman architecture, and interiors that are beautifully decorated with elegant columns and a graceful dome, Far from being just a pretty building, the church not only continues to serve as a place of worship, it also supports a number of groups, charities and outreach programs to better the lives of not only its own, but of the community as a whole.
During the day this park is alive with skateboarders, sunbathers and dog walkers; at night couples stroll on romantic walks. The natural sanctuary of lovely trees and green grass is surrounded by one of the city's most upscale eating, shopping and residential districts. Renamed Rittenhouse Square in 1825 for esteemed clockmaker and astronomer David Rittenhouse, this spot is the ideal place to take refuge from modern distractions. A few steps down the path at any of the six gates, and the noise and traffic of the city seem to disappear.