Philadelphia Experiences

The Liberty Bell bears a timeless message: "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof"

The State House bell, now known as the Liberty Bell, rang in the tower of the Pennsylvania State House. Today, we call that building Independence Hall. The bell cracked on the first test ring. Local metalworkers John Pass and John Stow melted down that bell and cast a new one in Philadelphia. It's this bell that would ring to call lawmakers to their meetings and the townspeople together to hear the reading of the news. It's not until the 1830s that the old State House bell would begin to take on significance as a symbol of liberty.

The Liberty Bell's inscription is from the Bible (King James version).This verse refers to the "Jubilee", or the instructions to the Israelites to return property and free slaves every 50 years. the bell's inscription, provided a rallying cry for abolitionists wishing to end slavery. The Anti-Slavery Record, an abolitionist publication, first referred to the bell as the Liberty Bell in 1835, but that name was not widely adopted until years later.

Philadelphia Zoo, America’s first zoo, is renowned for innovation in animal care and unwavering commitment to wildlife. 

Philadelphia Zoo continues to be a pioneer in animal care and conservation. Home to more than 1,700 rare and endangered animals, the Zoo continues to reach new heights, offering award-winning animal exhibits, state-of-the-art healthcare facilities, award-winning education and conservation programs, and exceptional guest services, making it one of the most renowned zoos in the world. Continuing in innovation, Philadelphia Zoo implemented Zoo360, a first-in-the-world system of see-through trails passing through treetops, crossing over pathways and connecting habitats, providing animals like amazing big cats, majestic primates, and marvelous monkeys more opportunities to travel and explore.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art—in partnership with the city, the region, and art museums around the globe—seeks to preserve, enhance, interpret, and extend the reach of its great collections in particular, and the visual arts in general, to an increasing and increasingly diverse audience as a source of delight, illumination, and lifelong learning.

For nearly 150 years, the museum has reflected the unique passions of Philadelphia collectors and curators. Discover the key moments, exhibitions, and artworks that shaped who we are today. Discover works in our collection in-person or online that have inspired thousands of visitors from across the globe. The museum strives to be an art museum for all. Together, they are working to build inclusion in all they do through community, culture, and our collection.

Anchored along the New Jersey-side of the Delaware River just across from Philadelphia, the Battleship New Jersey is a must-see attractions while in the area. Military history enthusiasts will put this at the top of their list of places to visit in New Jersey and places to visit in Philadelphia. However, the tours of the Battleship New Jersey are interactive, so guests of all ages and interests will equally enjoy themselves as they navigate the decks of the Battleship. You will be going up and down on ladders, stepping through passageways and sometimes maneuvering in tight spaces – just like the officers and the crew of the USS New Jersey did. We’re among the best tourism-related things to do in Philadelphia and for good reason – coming aboard a real battleship and experiencing history can leave a lasting impact.

Although you can see the ship from the Philadelphia side of the Delaware River, it is suggested to take the trip over and come aboard. The Battleship truly provides an active experience that’s also educational and makes the attraction one of the best things to see in Philadelphia. If you’re looking for what to do in Philadelphia and need a change from the city’s Revolutionary War background, come to the Battleship New Jersey. Having seen active duty during World War II, Korea, Vietnam and throughout the 1980s, those looking for places visit in Philadelphia will not be disappointed.