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Historic Philadelphia Field Trip Itinerary for Educators

A field trip itinerary for touring historic Philadelphia in one or more days.
Modern day image of Independence Hall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Independence Hall is where the Second Continental Congress adopted the text of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Library of Congress

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Independence National Historical Park are the #1 destination for Revolutionary War related field trips in the Mid-Atlantic region. This suggested itinerary will help you get the most out of your time in Philadelphia.

Before you go:

  • Call the National Park Service’s Visitor Center at the Independence National Historical Park at 215- 965-2305. Alternatively, you can call their Park Headquarters at 215-597-8787.
  • Email the National Park Service at the Independence National Historical Park.
  • Preview the National Park Service’s trip Plan Your Visit page.
  • Contact the Museum of the American Revolution at 215-253-6731 or email them at info@amrevmuseum.org.
  • Show your class our Revolutionary War Animated Map.
  • Apply to the History Field Trip Grant Program.
  • Contact your lodging and restaurant reservations to ensure everything is in order if you are spending more than one day. 

 

Ideal Itinerary if you are visiting for one day:

Time: 5-6 hours

What to do:

Arrive at the Visitors Center to preview some exhibits and get tickets to enter Independence Hall.

  • 41 N. 6th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
  • 1-877-444-6777

Visit Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence and US Constitution were signed. 

  • 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

Visit the Liberty Bell Center where the Liberty Bell is kept.

  • 526 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA

Participate in the National Park Service’s Independence Historical Institute.

  • Call 215-597-2760 or visit their website.

Visit the Museum of the American Revolution and participate in one of the many hands-on exhibits that the museum features.

Most importantly, enjoy your visit!

 

If you are visiting for more than one day:

Same itinerary as above for the first day in addition to the following:

Visit the Betsy Ross House.

Visit Valley Forge and participate in a Ranger Program or Tour.

  • 1400 North Outer Line Drive, King of Prussia, PA 19406
    • 610-783-1000

Visit the National Constitution Center.

  • 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19106
    • 215-409-6600

Explore Carpenters Hall.

Restaurants that serve groups:

  • Reading Terminal Market
    • 51 North 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
    • 215-922-2317
  • Campo's Deli
    • 214 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
    • 215-923-1000
  • Penrose Diner​
    • 2016 Penrose Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145-5744
    • 215-465-1097

Hotels:

There are numerous hotels in the Greater Philadelphia area, including:

Travel Tips:

  • Renting a bus can be costly in the Philadelphia area. Budget accordingly.
  • Vehicle traffic is very heavy, and roads are congested throughout the day, especially during rush hour.
  • Many of the sites around Independence Hall are close by. Once off of the bus you may not need it again until the end of the day.
  • Bus parking is available near Independence Hall. Plan ahead with your bus company.
  • Get started early in the day. Crowds are smaller earlier in the day, which will allow you to explore sites more freely. 
  • Most major Philadelphia museums have security checkpoints with metal detectors. On busy days it can take a while to get through security.
  • April - June are the busiest months for field trips. This means that the historic sites in the district can be jam-packed.

​​​​​​Questions?

These email addresses and phone numbers may help you answer any pertinent questions you may have about a trip to Philadelphia.

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