13 Philadelphia attractions that bring to life America’s roots and history

Tour Independence Hall, the birthplace of the U.S., and wander through the rooms where founding fathers convened to sign the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the Constitution 11 years later.

Step into the space of the creator of the American flag, stars, stripes and all, on Independence Day weekend. You can take an audio or self-guided tour through the Betsy Ross House and visit her upholstery shop, where you’ll find a Ross stand-in ready to tell you all about her life and business.

At the Benjamin Franklin Museum, the varying roles of Franklin and aspects of 18th-century living are explored through computer animations, interactive displays and historical artifacts.

Located on Independence Mall, the National Constitution Center gives an in-depth look into the Constitution and the country’s forefathers with exhibitions and programming, including the Signer’s Hall exhibit, which includes 42 life-size bronze statues of the Constitution’s signers and a place to sign your name.

Explore African-American history at the African American Museum through several exhibits, delving into heritage, culture and civil rights through stories, photography and other means. The Audacious Freedom exhibit, which explores the lives of African-American trailblazers in Philadelphia from 1776 to 1876, is on permanent display.