July4th27Sometimes a press release has such perfect timing and complete information, it has to be shared. The timing is right because I am speaking at Digital Family Summit in Philadelphia June 30 and it is open to families to attend. This list can help round out your weekend with some fun local stuff to do. You can get more info at www.visitphilly.com/july4 and www.uwishunu.com.
Independence Hall “Open House”
  • Learn the art of marching and musket etiquette at 2 & 3 pm daily June 25 – July 4 in Signers’ Garden at 5th & Chestnut Streets.
  • Only on July 4th can you enter Independence Hall without a timed ticket. Visit any time you want throughout the day.
  • Hear a moving reading from the Declaration of Independence at 3:45 pm daily June 25 – July 4 behind Independence Hall.
July4th29Betsy Ross House
10 am every day all summer long kids help raise the flag with Betsy and some of her Colonial friends. On July 4th at 1:30 pm the Betsy Ross House will host a free kids’ U.S. naturalization ceremony.Franklin Square

  • EZ PARK discount at 9th & Race Streets is offering Franklin Square guests an exclusive price of $7 for up to 6 hours with this coupon valid through July 6.
  • Franklin Square is open until 9 pm June 25 – July 4 (weather permitting)
  • Free games and activities will be offered from 12 – 3 pm on July 4

Storytelling Benches

·Open from 11 am – 4 pm June 25 – July 4
·11 benches throughout the Historic District, FREE
1. Independence Visitor Center
2. Historic Philadelphia Center
3. Independence Square, behind Independence Hall
4. Signers’ Garden
5. Second Bank of the United States presented by PNC Bank
6. The ACE INA Foundation Storytelling Bench at Carpenters’ Hall
7. Franklin Court
8. Christ Church
9. Betsy Ross House
10. The Lincoln Storytelling Bench at the National Constitution Center
11. Franklin Square
National Constitution Center
  • Open from 9:30 am – 8 pm July 2, 3 and 5
  • FREE Independence Day events outside June 28 – July 4 and include:
  • Revolutionary War re-enactors set up camp and give demonstrations
  • School of Rock students perform throughout the day
  • Indoor events included with museum admission June 28 – July 4 and include:
  • The Fourth of July Show – from the first Independence Day to today, learn the history of July 4th celebrations
  • Flag Etiquette Workshops – discover the history and symbolism behind the US flag, and learn the proper way to treat it
  • Star Spangled Banner Show – learn the story of Francis Scott Key and his inspiration for our national anthem
  • Colonial demos – butter churning, candle & paper making
  • Arts and crafts – patriotic hats, star wands, wreaths, pinwheels and paper flags

July4th2Adventure Aquarium

  • Best view of the Wawa Welcome America! Taste of Philadelphia Fireworks on June 30
  • Hosting Independence Day Splash from 6 – 9 pm with music and mascots followed by an amazing view of the fireworks from their private balcony open to event guests only
  • Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for kids

Bathroom breaks

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The Historic Philadelphia Center at 6th & Chestnut Streets
The Independence Visitor Center at 5th & Market Streets

Super Scooper All You Can Eat Ice Cream Festival at Penn’s Landing on June 30. The event starts at noon and gets crowded. Arrive early (around 10:30 am) to be one of the first people through.

Credit: Photo by G. Widman for GPTMC