This city is called the Birthplace of America since this is where the Declaration of Independence was signed 250 years ago. (July 4, 1776). In addition, the city is where the the US constitution was drafted and implemented.

We made the decision to come here a month before our interview/ civics exam for the American citizenship. As we were hitting the books for our civics test, it was hard for us to understand the questions since we’ve only been in the US for 5 years. So we thought, why not learn more about American history from the place where it all started? So we went to Philly.

It was a short drive from NYC (about 2 hours). We decided to spend 2 days in the old city and checked in at the Wyndham Philadelphia- Historic District. The price is very reasonable given that it’s in the historic district. It’s just a walking distance to all famous spots in the city. But there’s a catch! I didn’t know this until we were in the room- the hotel is beside a centuries- old cemetery. *wink

Our room with a view of the cemetery.

We passed by the United States Mint on our way to the hotel.

Started our self- paced walking tour at the Liberty Bell.

This very famous bell was commissioned in 1752 and cast with the phrase “Proclaim LIBERTY Throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants”. It was hung in the Independence Hall where it was rung to alert lawmakers for sessions and summon people during public meetings. It has a definitive crack probably a result of age old ringing.

In modern times, every 4th of July, the young descendants of the signers of the Declaration of Independence tap this bell 13 times. A ceremony called Let Freedom Ring.

Independence Hall

Across the street from the Liberty Bell, you will find the Independence Hall- this is where all the action began. Built in 1733, called at first the Pennsylvania State House, this is Pennsylvania’s first capitol and in 1776, this is where the founding fathers gathered to pass and implement the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States.

It is considered a World Heritage Site. And you have to come in groups with designated tour guide assigned. During winter, the entrance is free which we were very glad. hehe.

Coming inside a building that has surpassed time was very surreal, got goosebumps everywhere and my “probinsyana” self can’t believe she’s actually made this far.

This was the courtroom in the 1700’s. Far right you can see bleachers where the jury sits during trials. Just shows how long the jury system in the United Stated have been implemented.

This is where the founding fathers debated and adapted the Declaration of Independence and the constitution.

The chair in the center called the Rising Sun Armchair is where George Washington sat down during the months when the constitution was made.

I love how the tour was very organized and informative and it goes to show how the US is very patriotic with regard to it’s history.

After that transformative tour (we felt like we are very ready for the civics test. lol), we strolled more on and was perplexed by how much history the city has.

The Betsy Ross House.

Benjamin Franklin’s burial ground

We ended the night with a dinner at an Italian resto a little far but walkable from where we stayed. Being a famous city, it was hard for us to dine in without a reservation.

The next day, we visited the National Constitution Center.

And saw the Founding Father’s in their element. lol

We also went to the famous Rocky Steps at the entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The Rocky Steps was a scene from the 70’s film Rocky where the protagonist, Rocky Balboa (played by Sylvester Stallone) practiced for his ride or die boxing match. The scene was so iconic that they have a statue of Rocky at the foot of the steps.

Our last activity before heading back home is to try Philadelphia’s famous Philly cheesesteak. We drove to Geno’s Steaks which according to hubby is one of the best and it didn’t disappoint!

The trip to Philly was a success! We aced our civics test! lol