Historic Philadelphia

Liberty Bell

The old State House bell, the Liberty Bell hung in the Independence Hall steeple during the formative years of the young United States. It was rung to announce the opening of the First Continental Congress in 1774, and after the revolutionary battles of Lexington and Concord in 1775. Later, in the 1800s, it was adopted as a symbol of the abolitionist (anti-slavery) movement. After the Civil War, it became a symbol of unity – in the 1880s, to help heal the lingering wounds of the war, the Bell traveled to cities throughout the land.

The Bell is 12 feet in circumference and weighs just over a ton. It was originally cast in London, but cracked soon after it arrived in Philadelphia. Local craftsmen John Pass and John Stow cast a new bell in 1753, using metal from the original bell, but this too began to crack in 1846. After a George Washington birthday celebration in that year, the bell has not been rung since.

Today, the bell is displayed in the Liberty Bell Center, where it can be viewed in a glass chamber that looks out on Independence Hall. The Liberty Bell Center also offers a video presentation and exhibits about the Liberty Bell, focusing on its origins and its modern day role as an international icon of freedom. Taped presentations are offered in a dozen languages for the convenience of foreign visitors.

Getting Tickets

Unlike Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell Center does not require tickets. You will go through an airport-like security screening, however – the National Park Service recommends you bring only small bags and packages, if necessary. More »

THERE ARE NO RESTROOMS IN THE LIBERTY BELL CENTER OR THE INDEPENDENCE HALL SECURED AREA. The closest restrooms are located at the Independence Visitor Center at 6th and Market Streets, and at 5th and Chestnut Streets.