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 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 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.