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Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Photo by E. Savaria
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Location:
Center City, Philadelphia, Valley Forge Park, and the Brandywine Valley
Transportation:
Walking, trolleys or cabs through Center City; 30-45 minute car ride to Philadelphia suburbs
Duration:
Three days and two nights of exploring history and culture
You are about to embark on perhaps the most extensive and fun American history lesson you’ve ever experienced! It will take you back three centuries and span three Pennsylvania counties: Philadelphia, Montgomery (includes Valley Forge), and Chester (includes the Brandywine Valley).
You'll be visiting the sites where some of our nations' most important meetings have taken place, and you'll walk on the land where some of the most significant battles have been fought. You will want to put on a pair of comfortable walking shoes, grab a friend, and dicover the fun side of history in Philadelphia!
Day One: Part 1
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Independence Hall
Photo by B. Krist for GPTMC
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Start your morning out with a hearty breakfast at Famous Fourth Street Delicatessen. A Philadelphia landmark since 1923, it continues to be a favorite “noshing” place of famous and not-so-famous Philadelphians.
Now you’re ready for some history! Start at the Independence Visitor Center, pick up a free walking map and a free timed ticket for Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Independence National Historic Park, a square mile packed with more history and culture than any other, is just across the street. You can tour the area on your own or look for the park rangers, who will walk and talk you through the historic 45-acre district. You can even take a horse and carriage ride and travel the cobblestone streets as our forefathers did! Pick up a carriage near Independence Hall — which is the first of many stops you’ll want to make.
The guided Independence Hall tour, offered throughout the day, leads visitors through this elegant brick building, whose walls witnessed the signing of the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution, as well as the ratification of the Articles of Confederation uniting the 13 colonies.
From Independence Hall’s entrance, head around the corner and cross Chestnut Street. In the square, you will see the pavilion that encases the famed Liberty Bell. As groups of visitors gather, park rangers retell the history of the bell, which cracked at its first ringing in early 1753.
Continuing your exploration of the Independence Mall area, you’ll find Old City Hall, home of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1791-1800. Nearby Carpenters’ Hall, another architectural gem, housed the First Continental Congress (1774). Still owned by the Carpenters’ Company of Philadelphia, the building, much like Independence Hall, showcases popular 18th century design and construction methods.
You’ve no doubt built up an appetite for lunch by now. An ideal place to enjoy a bite in the spirit of your historical tour is City Tavern, an alehouse, circa 1773, featuring authentic colonial dishes served by staff in period costumes. Among tap selections is a beer brewed from Thomas Jefferson’s original recipe!
Alternately, there are many restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from along 4th, 3rd, 2nd, & Front Streets or on Chestnut Street between Front & 4th Street. In keeping with your history theme, you might want to try The Plough & the Stars. This Irish restaurant and bar in the restored Coin Exchange Building features 24-foot ceilings, molded Corinthian Columns, 16-foot windows, and excellent food. For more suggestions, you can consult the gophila.com restaurant guide or request a list of restaurants in Old City, Philadelphia’s first commercial district.
Day One: Part 2
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Elfreth's Alley
Photo by B. Krist for GPTMC
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It’s time to walk off that lunch, so head first to Elfreth’s Alley and enjoy a look at the quaint, brick homes that line the nation’s oldest, continuously inhabited street. Those who are curious about the residences can head inside the Elfreth’s Alley Museum for some history.
If young children are in your party, they surely will get a thrill out of a visit to the Fireman’s Hall Museum, where they can marvel at hand-engines and pumpers used by firefighters as far back as 1730.
Your next stop is the Betsy Ross House, home of the seamstress who created the first American flag. In addition to a self-guided tour of the cozy, restored colonial and courtyard, children’s activities and entertainment are featured daily.
In nearby Christ Church, you can sit in a pew that Betsy Ross herself — or George Washington or Benjamin Franklin — might have occupied while worshipping there. If you are interested in visiting other historic houses of worship, a few recommendations are: Saint Peter’s Church, where four Declaration of Independence signers attended services; Old Saint Joseph’s Church, Philadelphia’s first Roman Catholic church; and Old Saint Mary’s Church, the city’s second Catholic church that later became its first cathedral.
Keep your eyes peeled for Ben Franklin as you make your way to Franklin Court, once owned by its namesake in the 1700s. There is much to see here: a working reproduction of a 1785 printing press, an underground theater and museum, and the B. Free Franklin Post Office and Museum, commemorating the first postmaster general (1775). This is the place to mail your post cards; it is the only post office in the U.S. that still stamps and cancels mail by hand!
If you decide to stroll over to Benjamin Franklin’s Grave at 5th and Arch Streets, be sure to bring a penny to toss on it — a tradition that is said to bring good luck. And be sure to stop by the Independence Visitor Center on your way to pick up some souvenirs!
A perfect capstone for your day-long history lesson, the Atwater Kent Museum offers historical and archeological exhibits as well as artifacts that include a gibbot iron, or full body cage used for convicted prisoners. Art enthusiasts will want to check out the museum’s excellent Norman Rockwell exhibit as well.
Of course, there are many more museums, historical buildings, and attractions nestled within the Independence Mall and Old City areas. This proximity gives visitors the advantage of leisurely browsing around and choosing what interests them most. But after the busy day you’ve put in, you’re surely ready to relax over a nice dinner. Old City is bustling with restaurant options. In the mood for Italian? Try Pizzacato, a family-friendly casual Italian restaurant with lots of outdoor tables. Seafood lovers should seek out the renowned Philadelphia Fish & Co. or Dmitri’s, a small BYOB that gets very busy on weekend nights.
Depending on the time of your visit to Philadelphia, you might want to make reservations for one of its seasonal nighttime tours. Lights of Liberty is a dramatic sound and light show and walking tour through the Independence National Historic Park area. Participants wear headsets and view the story of the American Revolution through exquisite hand-painted images projected onto the buildings where events actually occurred. The tours are seasonal; call for times and tickets.
Ghost Tour of Philadelphia, a candlelight walking tour that combs Independence National Historic Park and Society Hill, runs from April through November (although days vary each month). Visitors of all ages will enjoy hearing the chilling stories associated with this historic — and haunted — city!
Of course, horse and carriage rides through the historic district run all year round and provide a wonderful evening activity — and an opportunity to see the sites you explored during the daytime illuminated under the stars. You also can window shop among Old City’s art galleries, which stay open late on the first Friday of every month. If you are lucky enough to be here on a “First Friday,” you’ll enjoy not only plenty of artwork, but interaction with artists and maybe even strolling musicians!
Day Two
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The Franklin Institute Science Museum
Photo by B. Krist for GPTMC
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The original plan for Philadelphia included five squares, each with its own unique “personality.” The squares are all within walking distance, but if you get tired, you can hop on Septa’s Philadelphia PHLASH Downtown Visitors Shuttle, or board a Philadelphia Trolley Works trolley along 5th and Market Streets.
You probably pass by, or even through, two of the squares during your first day’s touring. Franklin Square is located at the north end of the historic district on Race Street, between Franklin and 6th Streets. At the south end of the historic district, behind Independence Hall, is Washington Square (Walnut & Spruce Streets, between 6th & 8th Streets).
Heading west of the historic area, you’ll arrive at Center Square, Broad and Market Streets — site of Philadelphia’s City Hall. You can take a 90-minute guided tour of the majestic building, the world’s tallest masonry structure (510 feet) without steel reinforcements, as well as its tower, which is topped by a 37-foot high, bronze statue of William Penn. Be sure to stop by room 121 to enjoy a breathtaking view of the city!
Your next stop is beautiful Rittenhouse Square, located at Walnut & 18th Streets. Take a break from your history lesson with some shopping in the fine stores lining Walnut Street or by relaxing on one of the many wooden benches along the square. Try to find a spot near the lovely reflecting pool and fountain!
Your lunch options are limitless. You can choose from many bistros featured on Walnut Street’s “Restaurant Row.” Or, if the weather is warm, grab an outdoor table at Rouge, one of the posh bar and restaurants facing the square on 18th Street. If you’re not quite ready for dining, head north on 19th Street and you’ll arrive at Logan Square, situated at the tip of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, crossing Race Street, and graced at its center by the city’s most cherished fountain. A striking centerpiece crafted and cast by Alexander Stirling Calder in 1924, the Swann Memorial Fountain represents the three rivers of Philadelphia: the Delaware, the Schuylkill, and the Wissahickon Creek. Stirling is the son of Alexander Milne Calder, who crafted the statue of William Penn atop City Hall.
Directly across from the fountain, you’ll see the elegant Four Seasons Hotel—another potential lunch option or a wonderful place to return to for a rest over afternoon tea.
In the meantime, begin strolling down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to discover museums that cater to every interest. These include the Franklin Institute Science Museum (complete with a walk-through model of a human heart), the Rodin Museum (housing more of the artist’s works than anyplace else outside France), and, of course, the expansive Philadelphia Museum of Art. Run up its front steps as Rocky did in the 1976 hit film and explore the museum’s many fine collections or a special exhibit.
If you didn’t already visit the Four Seasons Hotel, that is an excellent nighttime dining option. Looking for something more casual? There are many great restaurants in the vicinity of the Art Museum area. Jack’s Firehouse and Illuminare are two good choices, or try Bishop’s Collar, a laid-back brew pub and sidewalk café.
Be sure to finish dinner by 8:00 p.m. if you want to catch a show! The Arden Theater Company, The Wilma Theater, and the Walnut Street Theater are only three of many venues offering live performances to the Philadelphia community. Consult the Calendar of Events and Arts & Entertainment sections of our site for theater listings and show times.
Day Three
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Brandywine Battlefield Park
Photo by H. Mahnke
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After a satisfying breakfast at or near your hotel, it’s time to leave the city behind to explore some famous historical sites beyond its boundaries. Your first destination is Valley Forge National Historic Park, commemorating the resolve and endurance of Washington’s Continental Army, who emerged from their brutal winter at Valley Forge (1777-78) and overcame several defeats (Battles of Brandywine, White Horse, and Germantown) to secure a victory over the British.
After a short (approximately 35 minutes) drive from Philadelphia to Valley Forge, begin at the newly renovated Visitors Center, located at Route 23 & North Gulph Road, and ask for a park map. You can choose to do a self-guided or scheduled driving tour — or opt to walk.
Following your map, you will first pass the Muhlenberg Huts, reconstructions of the original soldiers’ huts, before arriving at the National Memorial Arch, dedicated to the Continental Army in 1917. Half a mile away is the statue of General “Mad” Anthony Wayne, named for his fearless leadership throughout the war.
Next, your tour will take you to the line of cannons in Artillery Park. Another foot trail leads to Washington’s Headquarters, the Washington Memorial Chapel, and the Valley Forge Historical Society Museum, housing a collection of 4,000 artifacts and memorabilia.
The Grand Parade Ground, where the Revolutionary troops marched in 1778 to mark the American-French alliance, and the Monument to Patriots of African Descent are your final tour stops before returning to the Visitors Center.
Now it’s on to Chester County and the Brandywine Battlefield Park, located in the heart of Chadds Ford, PA. You’re probably hungry after the morning’s tour, so stop into nearby Hank’s Place, a diamond-in-the-rough luncheonette boasting “Home Cooking at It’s Best”—and at fantastic prices! (Remember, it’s never too late to order pancakes; locals say breakfast at Jack’s is the best around!)
Next stop: the Brandywine Battlefield Park Visitors Center, where, in addition to an 18-minute film presentation, you’ll find historical exhibits of weapons, uniforms, and artifacts from the battleground. You’ll want to head out into the park grounds and visit the nearby Benjamin Ring House, which served as Washington’s headquarters prior to the Battle of Brandywine, as well as Gideon Gilpin’s Farm House, where General Lafayette was headquartered. If you’re visiting in September, be sure to inquire about battle reenactments during this anniversary month.
Another historic landmark worth visiting is the Barns-Brinton House, a restored 18th century residence and tavern featuring reenactments of Colonial era domestic life in the Brandywine Valley, as well as expert demonstrations of 18th century cooking. Admission also covers the nearby John Chads House, once owned by the ferryman and farmer for whom the village of Chadds Ford was named.
Just outside Chadds Ford, in Kennett Square, you will discover the site of another historic struggle: The Kennett Underground Railroad Center. Begin at the Kennett History Station, where you’ll enjoy exhibits and presentations celebrating American heroes and their quest for freedom. Hour-long trolley bus tours allow visitors to follow the trail of the Underground Railroad “stations” and encounter the people, legends, and facts associated with them.
There is much more to see and do in the Kennett Square/Chadds Ford area, including the Brandywine River Museum and the Chadds Ford Winery. If you decide to extend your stay an additional night, you’ll have a fine selection of excellent restaurants, local hotels, and quaint bed & breakfasts to choose from.
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