East Coast Vacations – Bringing History to Life in Philadelphia

If you take your east coast vacations in Philadelphia, you’ll come away with a new appreciation for all the dull history classes you’ve ever taken. This was our original capital and was laid out by William Penn in 1682. The grid system he used became a pattern for the cities across the nation. The historical area where the nation was founded is quaint in itself. Made up largely of ancient townhouses along with the historic governmental buildings, just walking the streets and visiting Fairmount Park are a good way to spend an afternoon.

Penn had in mind a “greene countrie towne” when he laid it out. Downtown Philadelphia is a modern noisy, crowded city. However, this historical area maintains much of the original quaintness, with its cobbled streets, red-brick colonial homes, and tranquil Fairmount Park.

By the 1750s, Philadelphia, founded by Quakers, was the second largest city in the British empire. It became this country’s capital during the War of Independence and remained so except for a brief time in 1777-78 when it was occupied by the British. After the war was won, this extraordinary city remained the US capital until 1800, when construction on Washington, DC, was finished and it was ready for occupation.

The Declaration of Independence was written here and was first read for the public here in 1776. The U.S. Constitution, which was completed ten years later, was also first read publicly here. Besides the independence ferment and furor coming from the city during those revolutionary years, a similar movement was at work in the arts and sciences, led primarily by Benjamin Franklin.

The term “melting pot” probably describes Philadelphia better than any other city in the United States. Because of the spirit of tolerance and liberalism that characterized Philadelphia in the early years, it became a refuge for immigrants from almost every nation in the world. As a part of your vacation here, you might want to take a meal at one of the extraordinary Italian restaurants. For authenticity and flavor, you’ll never forget this culinary experience.

Perhaps the most popular site to visit is the liberty bell at 500 Market Street, near Independence Hall. Besides being rung to call citizens to the first reading of the Declaration of Independence, it became a symbol of the fight for freedom for all Americans. You will be able to listen to a lecture on the history of the bell during open hours, which vary from season to season.

Philadelphia has some very special high-dollar resort getaways such as the Four Seasons at 1800 Benjamin Franklin Parkway. However, there are many very nice yet affordable hotels that cater to families. As far as crowds are concerned, it’s best to visit during the season when schools are in session. If you go in the summertime or on school vacations, you’ll probably find it very crowded. The best parking in the historic area of the city is in the parking garages, and there are several near the sites you’ll want to visit.

If you choose to take your east coast vacations in Philadelphia, you’ll combine a very pleasurable visit plus a new appreciation for our country’s history, which you’ll always remember.

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