History brought to life
Must See Attractions
Enjoy true stories from Philadelphia’s past when you meet our History Makers and Storytellers.
Storytelling Benches in Historic Philadelphia
May 25, 26, & 27 | 11am – 4pm
May 31 – June 8 | Fridays & Saturdays | 11am – 4pm
June 11 – August 31 | Tuesdays – Saturdays | 11am – 4pm
Settle into any of the eight curved Storytelling Benches and hear some of our nation’s most intriguing behind-the-scenes stories. Trained, uniformed storytellers entertain and delight with free, 3 to 5 minute rarely heard stories. Stories of intrigue. Stories of bravery. Stories of lauded heroes and unsung everyday citizens who helped shape our American nation.
Visit all eight benches and you’ll receive a certificate and earn a special surprise in Franklin Square. Ask your Storyteller for a Storytelling Flag, have a star added at all eight Benches, and redeem for your surprise at Franklin Square.
Once Upon A Nation experiences are created in partnership with Independence National Historical Park
Once Upon A Nation at Valley Forge National Historical Park
Saturdays & Sundays | 11am – 4pm
Guaranteed to educate and entertain, this one-of-a-kind Once Upon A Nation Storytelling Bench will take place at one of two locations in Valley Forge National Historical Park. Storytellers, trained at the Historic Philadelphia, Inc. Benstitute, share riveting stories of the encampment, and how it became a turning point in the Revolutionary War. Short, 3-to-5-minute stories are told for free at the signature 13-foot curved bench.
- Visitor Center
- Varnum’s Quarters
History Makers
May 25, 26, & 27 | 11am – 4pm
May 31 – June 8 | Fridays & Saturdays | 11am – 4pm
June 11 – August 31 | Tuesdays – Saturdays
Don’t be surprised if you happen to meet William Penn roaming Philadelphia’s Historic District. Or the sailmaker James Forten. Or Susanna Cooke, a Colonial-era laundress. They are just a few of Historic Philadelphia Inc.’s History Makers, a sampling of the 18th century residents who have reappeared in 21st century Philadelphia. Chat with these costumed, trained historic interpreters, learn about their stories and snap some memory-making pictures.
Free Quaker Meeting House
May 25 – October 27 | Saturdays & Sundays | 11am – 4pm
Centuries after Betsy Ross and others met and worshiped at the Free Quaker Meeting House, Quaker philosophies still influence Philadelphia culture. Here you can learn about the Quaker religion, the Meeting House and meet some of Historic Philadelphia Inc.’s History Makers with Quaker ties. Spoiler Alert: There’s a connection between the Quakers and the creation of the U.S. Marine Corps. Stop by this Independence National Historical Park landmark and find out more!
Please note: The Free Quaker Meeting House is undergoing renovations, and hours are subject to renovation scheduling.
Colonial Kids’ Quest
May 25 – September 2 | Fridays & Saturdays | 11:30am
New for 2024: Help the animal puppets search for a missing copy of the Declaration of Independence in this kid-friendly, interactive puppet show.
Colonial Muster
May 25, 26, & 27 | 2 & 3pm
May 31 – June 8 | Fridays & Saturdays | 2 & 3pm
June 11 – August 31 | Tuesdays – Saturdays | 2pm & 3pm
New for 2024: Learn the life of a Colonial soldier complete with parading, marching drills, erecting tents, and descriptions of rations and primitive military life. Start at Signer’s Garden and work your way behind the Second Bank of the United States. New recruits will join a soldier in parading, marching, setting up wedge tents, and learning about Colonial food and equipment!
