Gay-friendly: Historic Attractions
Freedom started here
American History
Many important historical treasures can be found in Independence National Historical Park, America’s most historic square mile. The monumental new National Constitution Center demonstrates the relevance of the U.S. Constitution 200 years ago and today. Through a wealth of interactive exhibits, the Center offers visitors the opportunity to take the Presidential Oath of Office, add their signature to the Constitution, and review important Supreme Court decisions.
The Liberty Bell Center, the new home of the international symbol for freedom, presents dozens of images and interpretive panels to explain the rich history of the bell and how it became one of the nation’s sacred relics. Visitors can tour Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was adopted and the U.S. Constitution was written, and Carpenters’ Hall, where the First Continental Congress met in 1774.
Dozens more historical sites, including the Second Bank of the United States, Franklin Court and Christ Church, document the birth of the nation. From April through October, the Lights of Liberty Show, Philadelphia’s one-of-a-kind sound and light show, tells the story of the events leading up to the American Revolution at many of the sites where history was made.
Outside of the city, Valley Forge National Historical Park honors Colonial soldiers and their winter encampment of 1777-78, and Washington’s Crossing State Park marks the historical site where George Washington and his troops crossed the Delaware River for the important Battle of Trenton. Brandywine Battlefield Park brings to life the largest engagement of the Revolutionary War between Washington’s Continental Army and the British forces.
Gay Rights Started Here
On July 4, 1965, 40 courageous activists peacefully demonstrated in front of Philadelphia’s Independence Hall carrying signs calling for equal rights for gays and lesbians. For the next three years, these “Annual Reminders” were staged in Philadelphia, New York and Washington, D.C., with more demonstrators. By July 4, 1969, a month after the Stonewall Riots, 150 people demonstrated at Independence Hall. These pioneers started a national and international civil rights movement that continues today. In 1970, the events were consolidated to stage the first gay pride parade in New York City.