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Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Guide |
Independence National Historical Park Description: Independence National Historical Park, located in downtown (called "Center City"), Philadelphia, is often referred to as the birthplace of our nation. At the park, visitors can see the Liberty Bell, an international symbol of freedom, and Independence Hall, a World Heritage Site where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were created. In addition, the park interprets events and the lives of the diverse population during the years when Philadelphia was the capital of the United States from 1790 to 1800. A section of the park where Benjamin Franklin's home once stood is dedicated to teaching about Franklin's life and accomplishments. Spanning approximately 45 acres, the park has about 20 buildings open to the public. Directions: Plane - Philadelphia International Airport, eight miles from Center City, is served by all major domestic carriers as well as a gateway for flights from Europe, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. The SEPTA Airport Line connects the airport with Center City. Car - By car: the Park is easily reached via I-95, I-76 and I- 676. From South: Take I-95 north. Follow signs for "Central Phila./I-676". Exit onto 6th Street. Take 6th Street south to the underground parking garage entrance between Arch and Market Streets. From West: PA Turnpike (I-76) and exit at interchange 24, the Schuykill Expressway (I-76). Take Schuykill Expressway (I-76) to I-676 exit, Central Philadelphia. This is a left lane exit. Take I-676 to 8th Street exit and follow the signs for Independence Hall. Take 8th Street south to Market Street, turn left on Market Street. Take Market Street to 5th Street, turn left on 5th Street. . A parking garage will be in the middle of the block on the left. From North: Take N.J. Turnpike to exit 4. Take Rt. 73 north to Rt. 38. Take Rt. 38 west to US 30. Take US 30 west over the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. At the base of the bridge follow the signs for 6th Street. Take 6th Street south. there is an underground parking garage on the left between Arch and Market Streets. Bus - The Independence Transportation Center (ITC), a motor coach loading and unloading area located adjacent to the National Constitution Center, serves as the drop-off and pick-up point for groups visiting all of the attractions in and around Independence National Historical Park. Motorcoaches can enter the ITC from Race Street, between Fifth and Sixth streets. The area has 11 spots for loading and unloading visitors and there are an additional three spots for loading and unloading on Race Street. This is the only area where motorcoaches are able to load and unload in the historic area and parking and idling regulations will be strictly enforced. In addition to the Independence Transportation Center, a new designated motor coach parking facility is located on Callowhill Street between Front and Second Streets. This secured lot has 40 parking spots and is open 24 hours a day. The fee for the lot will be $20.00 for the day and will be collected upon entry to the ITC drop-off location. All motor coaches loading and unloading in the historic district must use this lot. Fines of up to $250 will be assessed for parking in any other area in the historic district. Public Transportation - Philadelphia is served by Amtrak which operates rail service along the Northeast Corridor (Boston to Washington, Atlantic City, NJ to Harrisburg, PA). Intercity service is provided to many points south and west. By Bus: Intercity bus service is excellent, with daily arrivals from all parts of the country. The Greyhound Terminal is located at 10th & Filbert Streets, within walking distance of the park. Philadelphia has an excellent transit system (SEPTA). SEPTA offers commuter rail service between the city and the suburbs. SEPTA also operates a large fleet of buses and street cars through the city and suburbs. Day passees are good for unlimited riding on all city transit vehicles. Route 76 (bus) makes a loop through the park to other cultural attractions in the city. . Philly Phlash is another bus service which has a route connecting attractions throughout the city. Independence National Historical Park 143 South Third Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 Phone: Visitor Information (215) 597-8974 Visitor Information (TTY) (215) 597-1785 (TTY) Headquarters (215) 597-8787 Email: frank_eidmann@nps.gov Detailed web page for Independence National Historical Park Independence National Historical Park Map Independence National Historical Park Reservations Recreational Opportunities Educational Programs Restaurant/Snack Bar Museums/Visitor Center |
