The Mercer Museum is a six-story castle constructed of concrete by Henry C. Mercer to house and exhibit his collection of everyday objects from the mid-19th Century. Many objects, such as a whaling boat, stagecoach and Conestoga wagon, are suspended from the ceiling of the castle's central atrium, having been delibertly hung per Mercer's direction, to force visitors to view these objects in a new and different way. Museum patrons can view themed display rooms as they walk around on each floor, showing items such as tools of a hatmaker, shoemaker, confectionary and healing arts. Mercer purchased most of his collection prior to his death in 1930. His mission was to preserve the tools of the past which were quickly becoming obsolete by the Industrial Revolution. Through donations, the museum is still collecting today. In fact, items which are now obsolete in the 21st Century, such as an 8-track cassette tape and a black rotary telephone, are on also display. Construction of a "New Century Expansion" is scheduled to be completed in 2011. Childrens activities such as scavenger hunts are available throughout the museum. They include searching for the concrete pawprints of Rollo the dog, and the "Animals on the Loose" exhibit on the fifth floor. The Mercer Museum is neither heated nor air conditioned. Although the concrete construction helps to moderate temperature extremes, visitors are advised to dress accordingly. Much of the museum is accessible via elevator, however, there are some rooms which can only be reached by using the stairs. The museum is administered by the Bucks County Historical Society, which also oversees the Fonthill Museum. Combination tickets for both the Mercer and Fonthill Museums are available. Private events are catered by Memorable Affairs of nearby Hartsville, PA.
The American Philosophical Society is the first "learned society" in the United States and has been in existence for over 250 years. It is located on the historic Independence Mall . It was founded by Ben Franklin in 1743 and has an international reputation for all the scholarly work it has done and continues to do. Lewis and Clark studied at the American Philosophical Society for their famous expedition. As the society focuses on Science and the Humanities, visitors with a curious desire to learn more about the history of scientific inquiry and philosophical explanation would have a wonderful time exploring the rooms and shelves.
Best and worst times to go to the American Philosophical Society
If you want to spend quiet, leisure time at the American Philosophical Society, the worst time to go is July 4th weekend. Philadelphia, being the nation's cradle of liberty, hosts a week-long celebration for the fourth of July. Given the society is located along Independence Mall, there will be thousands of tourists milling about and many themed events to attend.
The best time to go to the American Philosophical Society is in October or May. Philadelphia's weather is beautiful in those months and the society will be busy hosting scholarly lectures for the public. There will also be a variety exhibits to choose from.
Must see/do at the American Philosophical Society
Guided tours are quite spectacular. The visitor must make a reservation two weeks in advance, so they need to call (215) 701-4423. Visitors are invited to check out all collections online so they can help plan their guided tour.
To feel the rich history of the United States, visitors must see the Lewis and Clark collection of items like the preserved herbs that were brought back to the American Philosophical Society after the completion of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
When visitors are preparing to leave, they must grab a free copy of Thomas Jefferson's walking tour of Philadelphia. Jefferson's path is a wonderful way to see even more of Philadelphia's rich history while getting some exercise.
Admission to the American Philosophical Society
Admission to the American Philosophical Society is free. They do ask for a $2 donation. Specially arranged guided tours cost $2 for students and $5 for adults. The museum is open Thursday – Sunday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and from Memorial Day through Labor Day hours are extended until 5 p.m.
Parking /public transit for the American Philosophical Society
The American Philosophical Society is located in Philadelphia's historic district at 104 South 5th Street. Visitors can pay for metered street parking or park at the Bourse Garage which is located on 4th Street between Market and Chestnut. The Market-Frankford Blue Line subway is the most convenient form of public transit. It stops at 5th and Markets streets and is a one block walk to the American Philosophical Society.
Food at the American Philosophical Society
The American Philosophical Society does not offer any food options. But directly across from the museum is Chestnut Street, the amazing variety of cafes and restaurants range from coffee bars to takeout salads to Lebanese to American fare and the prices range from really affordable to fine-dining like the famous restaurant Buddakan.
Insider tip to visitors to the American Philosophical Society
Many people don't realize the American Philosophical Society is also campus of four buildings and one garden. The American Philosophical Society Library is a hidden gem with public space and guided tours. To find out all about the enormous collection and to request a tour, go to their website.
Author's bio: Stasia DeMarco is a native Philadelphian. She has been a freelance journalist for 20 years.
The 42-acre Graeme Park, located just off Easton Road, offers something for every interest. For the nature lover, the park's trails, picnicking area, wooden footbridge and pond are a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing sight. For history buffs, a visit to the Keith House - said to be the only remaining residence of a colonial Pennsylvania governor - offers insight into yesteryear. The house has retained many of its historical attributes, dating back to the 18th century, and features original woodwork and paint finishes.
In 1963, Graeme Park was designated a Registered National Historic Landmark with the U.S. Department of the Interior National Park Service.
Located in downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the Fulton Theatre (also known as The Fulton Opera House) is one of the premier regional theatres in the Keystone State. Home to live stage productions, the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra, and a multitude of educational programs, the Fulton is the epicenter of the arts in Lancaster county.
Parking and Public Transportation at the Fulton Theatre
There are two paid lots immediately across Prince Street from the Fulton. There is also paid garage parking available at a structure at the intersection of Orange and Prince Streets.
If you're taking public transportation, routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 20 on the Red Rose Transit bus lines, serving the greater Lancaster area, will travel through downtown. If you're traveling from farther away, Lancaster's Amtrak station is about a mile away from the theatre.
Admission to the Fulton Theatre
Given the amount of productions and experiences offered at the Fulton, ticket prices can vary. Generally, seniors and children 17 and under are eligible for discounts, and students can try for discounted tickets (only $10!) during the Student Rush, offered one hour prior to curtain time.
Theatre seasons usually comprise six shows, like The Producers or The Wizard of Oz; a season subscription provides a discount compared to purchasing tickets for all of the shows individually.
Must See/Do at the Fulton Theatre
Check out the recently-established Ellen Arnold Groff Studio Series, which showcases new and cutting-edge productions like Venus in Fur.
Select performances of the main-stage shows are part of the Fulton's Asides Lecture Series, which aim to educate and entertain interested patrons on how a facet of the production is created.
Other Places to Visit Near the Fulton Theatre
Downtown Lancaster has a wealth of unique restaurants, cafes, and shops all within walking distance of the theatre. The Lancaster Central Market in Penn Square is a large farmers market featuring local produce and products from local Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch communities.
If you're making a weekend of it and like thrills, head over to Hersheypark in nearby Hershey, PA.
Insider tip for visitors to the Fulton Theatre
The Fulton offers a Pay-What-You-Want option during certain performances of both the premier and family series of theatrical productions.
Author's bio: Jeff Birou is an education administrator by day, travel and freelance writer by night. You can find him at his blog, Lance+Jeff, or on Twitter at @Jetsetter_Jeff.
Built in 1857, the Academy of Music functions as both a concert hall and opera house. It hosts a variety of performances each month. To purchase tickets, be sure to visit the website provided.
The Bucks County Historical Society gives daily guided tours of the amazing structure that was once the home of Henry Chapman Mercer. Constructed of fireproof concrete, the home was designed and built by Mercer circa 1910. The design borrows from a range of European styles that Mercer became familiar with on his travels abroad, including Gothic, medieval and Byzantine. The many tiles featured inside and outside the home were a kind of showcase of the many products produced by his nearby Moravian Tile Works.
Inside photography is not allowed. A permit is required for wedding and commercial photographers. Private parties are handled by Memorable Affairs in Hartsville.
Admission discounts are offered for AAA members as well as military personnel. Coupons are available online at the Mercer Museum website. Tour groups and school groups are welcome.
The Liberty Bell is a Historic National Landmark drawing thousands of visitors year-round. The Liberty Bell, with its famous crack, was first called the State House bell in the 1700s. It is the national symbol of life and liberty. This is why Philadelphia is often referred to as the "nation's cradle of liberty."
Parking and transportation at the Liberty Bell
There is metered street parking all around the Liberty Bell for people traveling around the city by car.
The closest and most popular parking garage is the Independence Visitor Center underground garage.
For public transportation options, visitors can take SEPTA's Market- Frankford line to 5th Street and walk one block. For travelers coming from New Jersey, the PATCO line's 8th Street stop is a four block walk.
Best and worst times to go to the Liberty Bell
Visitors who love a family-friendly party should visit the Liberty Bell on the fourth of July. There are special events planned all day and night. Visitors can also walk a few blocks to see spectacular fireworks at Penn's Landing.
The worst time to visit the Liberty Bell is in February, based on weather in Philadelphia. Frigid temperatures and snow can make for canceled flights and possible street closures.
Admission to the Liberty Bell
Admission to the Liberty Bell is free.
Must see/do at the Liberty Bell
Travelers to the Liberty Bell will see how it is now located in a visitor's center. This center has many interactive exhibits explaining the history of the bell followed by a National Park Ranger providing a live history lesson right under the bell.
The Liberty Bell is situated on Independence Mall where visitors can stop and visit the President's House for free right next door. This outdoor exhibit focuses on the history of slavery in Philadelphia and by the founding fathers.
Other places to visit near the Liberty Bell
The National Constitution Center is two blocks north of the Liberty Bell and has free general admission. Certain special exhibits charge admission fees.
Other places to visit near the Liberty Bell
The National Constitution Center is two blocks north of the Liberty Bell and has free admission except for certain special exhibits.
The Benjamin Franklin Museum is located two blocks east of the Liberty Bell. This interactive museum focuses on the many contributions Benjamin Franklin made to society. It is perfect for visitors of all ages. The museum does charge a small fee for admission.
The City Tavern was founded in 1773 and is a big favorite for visitors to Philadelphia. Servers are dressed in colonial outfits, and the menu reflects the cuisine of 18th Century Colonial America.
Insider tip for visitors to the Liberty Bell
Most visitors to Philadelphia want to have a cheesesteak or an Italian hoagie. Not too many people know there is a famous Italian sandwich spot called Campo's Deli just three blocks from the Liberty Bell. Campos's offers other sandwiches with a Philadelphia flare. But visitors looking for cheese whiz on their steak need to say, "Wit Whiz".
Author's bio: Stasia DeMarco is a native Philadelphian. She has been a freelance journalist and digital media specialist for 20 years.
Located in Philadelphia, Wyck Historic House and Garden is an 18th century home with grounds that include a nationally recognized garden with more than 30 varieties of roses. The Wyck House offers guided and self-guided tours, programs and events, summer camps and more. For registration, volunteer and donation information, be sure to call the telephone number provided or visit the Wyck Historic House and Garden website.
Moravian Pottery & Tile Works Museum is a working history museum where full-time ceramists and part-time apprentices create re-issues of the original designs from Henry C. Mercer's historical tile collection. The craftsmen demonstrate daily to visitors how they use the same techniques from the turn of the 20th Century arts and crafts movement in creating the tiles including pressing the clay into molds and painting the tiles by hand. All of the tiles are made from hand-mixed Bucks County clay and are available for sale as souvenirs or for home improvement projects such as fireplace surrounds, backsplashes or flooring. The museum also offers classes and workshops for the public and also caters to school groups and summer camps.
Tours of the facility start with a fifteen minute orientation video and then continues along a designated tour route marked with signs throughout the concrete fabricated building. Visitors can walk through at their own pace, but the tour generally takes about 40 minutes. There are several stairways along the way. Part of the tour includes being able to watch ceramists create the tile and visitors are encouraged to ask questions, which are cheerfully answered.
