Historic District

No matter how you first approach Philadelphia, all things start at Independence National Historical Park. As the birthplace of the country, "America's most historic square mile" was the arena across which the nation strode to its national identity and independence. It's impossible to list the historical highlights because everything is a highlight. Independence Hall—where the Declaration of Independence was approved and the U.S. Constitution adopted—Congress Hall, Old City Hall, Carpenters' Hall, Franklin Court, Declaration House, and, of course, the Liberty Bell are just some of the attractions. If seeing these sights doesn't bring out your gee-whiz patriotism, nothing will.