Independence National Historical Park

Recognizable for its crack, the Liberty Bell remains significant today for its message of liberty.
The park represents the founding ideals of the nation, and preserves national and international symbols of freedom and democracy, including Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. The Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were both debated and signed inside Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Map showing location of park.
The National Parks of Philadelphia announce job fair - September 18, 2024
The National Parks of Philadelphia will host a job fair at the Independence Visitor Center (6th and Market Streets) on September 18, 2024, from 9:30 am – 4:00 pm.
Adrian Fernandez in NPS uniform with US Flag in background
Adrian Fernandez named as new chief ranger of the National Parks of Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA - Independence National Historical Park is excited to announce that Adrian Fernandez has been selected as Chief Ranger for the National Parks of Philadelphia. “Adrian's values and skill set match the National Park Service vision for the Semiquincentennial and beyond. He is a thoughtful leader who puts staff and visitor safety first” reported Park Superintendent, Steve Sims. Adrian has served as the National Parks of Philadelphia's deputy chief ranger since May of 2022. He begins his new duties effective September 8.
Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site to close for fire safety upgrades
PHILADELPHIA — The Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site will close to the public for much needed upgrades to its fire detection and suppression system. The fire detection system will be replaced and a new fire suppression system will be installed throughout the complex. Consisting of two adjoining townhomes on North Seventh Street in the Spring Garden neighborhood, the site is on the National Register of Historic Places and is a National Historic Landmark. Construction will begin on July 8th and be completed by the fall of 2024. The site will be closed to the public for the duration of the project.
3 workers installing black metal ramp
National Park Service expands access to historic Independence Square
PHILADELPHIA – The National Park Service (NPS), in partnership with the Independence Historical Trust, is pleased to announce the addition of a mobility ramp on historic Independence Square. For the first time in over 20 years, visitors will not need to go through security screening for wheelchair access to the south side of the Square. “We strive to create an equal and accessible experience for all visitors to Independence National Historical Park. Now people with mobility needs can access Independence Square without going through security” said Superintendent Steven Sims. “We are excited to work with the Trust to expand direct access to more park visitors.”
Independence National Historical Park receives reaccreditation from the American Alliance of Museums
Independence National Historical Park (INHP) has been awarded reaccreditation from the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), the highest national recognition for a museum. Accreditation signifies excellence to the museum community, the government, funders, outside agencies, and the museum-going public. It also means the park continues to meet National Standards and Best Practices for U.S. Museums and remains a member of a community of institutions that have chosen to hold themselves publicly accountable to excellence. Through a rigorous process of self-assessment and review by peers, the park has shown itself to be a good steward of its resources held in the public trust and committed to a philosophy of continual institutional growth.
Color photo of the Liberty Bell with Independence Hall in the background.
Photo by NPS Photo
A color photo of the Independence Visitor Center showing a brick building with tall windows.
Photo by NPS Photo
Color photo of Independence Hall as seen from the north side of Chestnut Street.
Photo by NPS Photo
A color photo of the Assembly Room showing 18th century chairs and green, cloth covered tables
Photo by NPS Photo
A color photo of the exterior of the Benjamin Franklin Museum in Franklin Court.
Photo by NPS Photo
A color photo of a printing press in the Franklin Court Printing Office.
Photo by NPS Photo
The exterior of the Second Bank of the United States showing a marble building with eight columns.
Photo by NPS Photo