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Liberty Bell
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Historical site
The Liberty Bell is an iconic symbol of American independence, currently located in a glass pavilion within Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia. Originally commissioned in 1752 from the Whitechapel Bell Foundry in London, the massive bronze bell was intended for the steeple of the Pennsylvania State House (now Independence Hall). It bears the famous biblical inscription: 'Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof'. The bell notoriously cracked upon its very first test ring and had to be recast twice by local craftsmen. It gained immense national prominence in the 1830s when abolitionist societies adopted it as a symbol for the movement to end slavery. History K7 — national symbols and abolitionism.
- Location: United States
- Top sights: Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History · African American Museum in Philadelphia · Independence Visitor Center
- Nearby: Heislerville (27 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 0 | 5 | 11 | 17 | 22 | 25 | 24 | 20 | 14 | 7 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 78 | 78 | 100 | 97 | 96 | 121 | 124 | 121 | 102 | 110 | 90 | 111 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Visitors can see the iconic bell year-round inside its glass-enclosed pavilion. The exhibit area allows for close-up viewing and features detailed historical displays about its origins.
Typical hours
The pavilion is typically open daily from morning until late afternoon, though hours can vary slightly by season. Expect much longer lines during summer months and national holidays.
Photography
Photography is fully permitted and encouraged, even with flash. The protective glass enclosure can cause reflections, so position your camera carefully to minimize glare for the best shot.
Time needed
A typical visit lasts about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how much time you spend reading the extensive exhibits. The mandatory security check before entry often adds to the total time.
Combine with
Combine this visit with Independence Hall right across the street, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. The nearby National Constitution Center also makes for an excellent historical addition.
Getting there
The site is easily accessible by public transit within Philadelphia's historic district, with several subway and bus stops nearby. The entire pavilion and the surrounding area are fully wheelchair accessible.
Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning right when the doors open to avoid the notoriously long lines that build up throughout the day. The light inside the pavilion is also often better for photos early on.
Geography
Facts
- The bronze bell was originally cast in 1752 at the Whitechapel Bell Foundry in London.
- It weighs roughly 2,080 pounds and is made mostly of copper and tin.
- The famous crack developed sometime in the early 19th century.
- Abolitionists adopted the bell in the 1830s, giving it the name 'Liberty Bell'.
- The bell was famously hidden in Allentown, Pennsylvania during the Revolutionary War.
- It features an engraving from the biblical Book of Leviticus.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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Sights in the town Liberty Bell (9)
African American Museum in Philadelphia🏛 museum
The African American Museum in Philadelphia is the first museum funded by a major city dedicated to African American history.
🌐 aampmuseum.org🕒 Th-Sa 10:00-17:00, Su 12:00-17:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is it?
A symbol of US freedom.
Where is the bell?
In a pavilion in Philadelphia.
Is it free?
Yes, entry is free.
Is it cracked?
Yes, that is its famous feature.
How long is the wait?
Usually goes fast.
Liberty Bell: where is it located?
Liberty Bell is located in United States.
Liberty Bell: what is there to see?
Highlights include Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, African American Museum in Philadelphia, Independence Visitor Center.
Liberty Bell: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Liberty Bell: why is it worth visiting?
The Liberty Bell is an iconic symbol of American independence, currently located in a glass pavilion within Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia.
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