One of Philadelphia’s most well-known symbols is the Liberty Bell. Visitors can get an up-close look at this icon in the Liberty Bell Center.
The Liberty Bell Center includes exhibits chronicling the history of the Liberty Bell and what it has stood for through the years.
John Pass and John Stowe cast this bronze bell in Philadelphia in 1753. The Liberty Bell was initially named the State House Bell because it hung in the Pennsylvania State House (now known as Independence Hall).
No one knows when the bell first cracked. However, efforts to repair the bell by widening the crack (an effort to prevent further cracking) failed, and the bell eventually cracked again. The Liberty Bell was replaced in 1876 by the Centennial Bell, which still rings today.
The Liberty Bell Center – Know Before You Go
The Liberty Bell Center is part of Independence National Historical Park. It is across the street from the bell’s original home in Independence Hall.
The center is open daily from 9 am until 5 pm. (Hours may vary so check with the National Park Service before you go.) You do not have to pay a fee to see the Liberty Bell, but you will have to go through security.
The Liberty Bell began its journey in the bell tower of the Pennsylvania State House. Since then, it has traveled across the country and continues to serve as a symbol of freedom to many. Today, the Liberty Bell is right where it should be – by Independence Hall and accessible for all to see.
Planning a trip to Philadelphia? Check out Philadelphia Fun: 21 Things to Do in the City of Brotherly Love.
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