As Ben Franklin said, “Genius without education is like silver in the mine.”
Half-Day Itinerary:
Start with a guided tour of Independence National Historical Park – America’s most historic square mile – where you’ll view the award-winning film Independence, see the site where Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence and where our Constitution was drafted. Before you leave be sure to snap a picture of the Liberty Bell, an international symbol of freedom!
Once your group has worked up an appetite head over to Franklin Square. Located in one of William Penn's original parks as part of his effort to create a “green country town” Franklin Square offers a student-friendly elective in the heart of the historic district. Grab lunch at Square Burger- a tasty lunch spot by famed restaurateur Steven Starr and enjoy the Philadelphia Park Liberty Carousel, an 18-hole miniature golf course, sand sculptures, and storytelling benches.
Did you know the Philadelphia Zoo is 150 years-old and holds the title of America’s first zoo?! See more than 1,300 rare and endangered animals from around the world, take a ride on the Amazon Rainforest Carousel, and soar to new heights with the Channel 6 Zooballoon.
Make It a Full Day:
Board the River Link Ferry from Penn’s Landing and cross the Delaware River to New Jersey to visit the Adventure Aquarium. Take in a 4D movie as the Aquarium provides an immersive movie experience combining unique special effects and 3D projection.
Back in Philadelphia take the ultimate taste test, and sample a classic “Philly Cheesesteak” from Philadelphia’s two most famous cheesesteak purveyors at 9th and Passyunk streets.
Independence After Hours takes your group on an evening walking tour led by Colonial characters bringing history to life right in the place where it happened. The tour begins with a three-course meal at historic City Tavern, where Colonial townspeople entertain. The Colonial host then “sneaks” you back to the Pennsylvania State House (Independence Hall) where your entire group will witness several Founding Fathers deep in discussion over the creation of the Declaration of Independence. Keep your eyes out for the night watchman!
Make It a Weekend: Day 2
The day begins with a museum tour that takes you through the giant model of a human heart at The Franklin Institute, over to the dinosaur exhibit at The Academy of Natural Sciences, and then reenact Rocky’s triumphant run up the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps.
Stop at the Comcast Center, the tallest building in Philadelphia and the tallest LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified building in the United States. Watch the lobby walls come to life with high definition video on the world’s largest TV, and then enjoy lunch at The Market, the food court on the lower level.
Visit the National Liberty Museum, dedicated to world heroes and their struggle to protect and preserve freedom.