Historic Philadelphia

Storytelling Benches

Hear riveting stories of American history even most adults have never heard at 13 charming Storytelling Benches scattered around the Historic Philadelphia area. Our Once Upon A Nation storytellers aren’t dressed in colonial garb, but they’ll effortlessly transport you back in time as you sit on spacious and comfortable teak benches, all an easy stroll from one another. Stories last just a few minutes each and are told continuously during operating hours. You can start at any of the benches, all clearly marked with a “Once Upon A Nation” sign. And it’s completely FREE!

More Fun for Kids: Wherever you elect to start you storytelling journey, be sure to ask your storyteller for a flag. Kids collect one star from each bench they visit; flags complete with all 13 stars may be presented for a coupon book and fun prizes at the Independence Living History Center (115 South Third Street) or at Franklin Square (6th and Race Streets.)

Operating Hours: Memorial Day through Labor Day, 11 AM- 4 PM

Bench Locations:There are 13 benches in Historic Philadelphia. See below for list of benches and rain locations – or click for printable interactive map.

1. Independence Visitor Center
   Rain location: 5th Street entrance area
2. Washington Square
   Rain location: Lights of Liberty, 6th & Chestnut Sts.
3. Independence Square
   Rain location: Lights of Liberty, 6th & Chestnut Sts.
4. Signers’ Garden ~ Presented by The Avery Foundation
   Rain location: Lights of Liberty, 6th & Chestnut Sts.
5. Second Bank of the United States
   Rain location: Under the North Portico
6. Carpenters’ Hall ~ Presented by the ACE Charitable Foundation
   Rain location: Inside the Independence Living History Center
7. Harmony Lane
   Rain location: Inside the Independence Living History Center
8. Franklin Court
   Rain location: Under canopy by museum entrance
9. Christ Church
   Rain location: Inside Christ Church
10. Betsy Ross House
    Rain location: Inside the Betsy Ross House
11. Arch Street Meeting House
    Rain location: Inside the Meeting House
12. National Constitution Center ~ Presented by Lincoln Financial Group
    Rain location: Same as regular location
13. Franklin Square
    Rain location: Inside the Gift Shop

Ask a Storyteller! Once Upon A Nation storytellers know more than just their history. Ask them for suggestions on where to find all the fun Historic Philadelphia has to offer!

Don’t miss our Valley Forge benches! Sorry there aren’t more benches? There are… in Valley Forge! If you’ve got time, don’t miss the gripping stories of a winter that sorely tested Washington’s young army.