Tips for visiting Independence Hall

A few weeks ago we visited Independence Hall in Philadelphia. Thing sure have changed since I was last there in 5th grade!

First, you will need tickets to visit Independence Hall. You can book them in advance for a $1.50 charge at the website. I strongly recommend this. Note that tickets are for specific times.

Once you get there, you need to pick up your tickets from the visitor center which is a block away. It’s a bit of a schlep. You could reserve tickets the day of, but they get snapped up super fast apparently.

There’s a security screening area for independence hall, and they are pretty thorough about manually searching your bags. There’s a sign that says that you must have a ticket to visit the Hall, which is true, but it does not mean you must have a ticket to go past the security checkpoint.

This is an important distinction because it means that if you don’t have a ticket, or if you have a ticket for a tour at a later time, you still have a shot at going on an earlier tour. Just go through the checkpoint, and nicely ask the park ranger who manages the line if (s)he has any spare tickets, or if you could go on standby for an earlier tour. Sometimes people who tickets don’t appear for their tour, and there will be space for you. It depends on your party size, and how much luck you have.

Also, note that there are no tickets necessary for seeing the Liberty Bell.