Back to the beginning of our Democracy
Philadelphia, PA
Adding even more variety to my walks, today I drove up to the Historic District of Philly. The area was bustling with activity in preparation for this week’s Fourth of July celebrations. Once again, my brain didn’t make the connection between the upcoming holiday and the historical significance of my destination choice. I mean, duh, it’s nearing Independence Day and I chose to go to where the Declaration was actually signed hundreds of years ago? Umm… yeah, it’s going to be busy.
Historic District
City Tavern and US Custom House
Independence Historical Park
Liberty Bell
Independence Hall
National Constitution Center
The historical park mainly consists of the Visitor Center, the Liberty Bell House, the original Pennsylvania government buildings, and the large National Constitution Center. The Liberty Bell is housed in a simple building, with a few exhibits regarding its history and significance. It has a security station that visitors must pass through. Fortunately, there wasn’t a long line, so I didn’t have to wait, but I imagine later in the day it could really slow things down.
Independence Square, with its series of three historical halls, is across the street from the bell. Congress Hall housed the US Congress between 1790 and 1800. The centerpiece, Independence Hall, formerly the Pennsylvania State House, is where the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were written. Finally, the Old City Hall held the US Supreme Court between 1791 and 1800. The beginnings of our Democratic government were right there.
I decided not to tour Independence Hall, due to limited time. It requires a free-timed ticket and the line was already too long. I wasn’t in the mood to wait around. I had places to go and things to see. I was content to admire it from across the street.
I wanted to visit the National Constitution Center , however I didn’t get the chance. It just wasn’t open while I was in the vicinity. I’ve heard it’s very interesting. In fact, my waitress at lunch even recommended it later in the day. The problem was by the time it did open I was across town and too tired to make my way back. It’s one of the inconvenient parts about touring areas on a Sunday (and in the morning). I’ll have to save it for another trip.
Society Hill
I finished my walk strolling through the historic Society Hill neighborhood. I enjoy walking through such quiet residential areas. I wouldn’t mind eventually buying an old house in a historic district with a cobble-stone street. I know it would probably take a lot of work and money to renovate, but it could be an interesting project. Of course, it also depends on where I settle down, whether that’s even possible.
Washington Square District
American Revolution Tomb of the Unknown
I visited two of the city’s original squares, including Washington Square. It was a nice quiet open space, with plenty of seating and trees for shade. It seemed like a great place to plop down to read for a while, not that I needed such a break. The Revolutionary War Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, including an eternal flame and fountain, is located in the center of the park.
The second was Franklin Square, which was very busy. It was smaller and contained a playground and other kids’ attractions, making it a popular spot for families. Today there was a sand-sculpture exhibit throughout the space. It was kind of neat. The city’s Fire and Law Enforcement Personnel Memorial sits quietly on the edge of the square.
As a side note, the Declaration House, where Thomas Jefferson rented a room and drafted the Declaration of Independence, sits in-between the two.
Penn’s Landing
Delaware River, view of New Jersey from Penn’s Landing
The final piece to my trip was a walk through Penn’s Landing along the Delaware River. The pier is a hot spot for festivals and concerts. It also has a few maritime museums, one large building and a few ships.
I had a great day, but I was certainly exhausted by the time I reached my car. Hopefully I’ll make my way back to Philly at some point, but I feel good about what I accomplished while there today.
Today’s Flickr set: city photos
One of the things about traveling solo is that it makes me a perfect target for strangers to talk to. Not that I mind, it’s a great way to find out more about the area and just interesting tid-bits of info. I’ve met some neat and/or friendly people so far during my outings, and today was no different. My waitress at lunch took note of me and actually stood around chatting for a while. She recommended a few must-see attractions, most of which I had already stopped by and told me about the various large festivals held at Penn’s Landing. Apparently, it’s a pretty happening place, however nothing was going on today, just the way I’d prefer it.
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