Historic Philadelphia
What would you ask Benjamin Franklin if you had the chance?
Meet Dr. Franklin at Franklin Court and discover the man behind the legend. Ask questions, hear stories from his remarkable life, and learn how one Philadelphian helped shape a nation.
📅 Fridays & Saturdays, May 23 - September 5
🕦 1 PM & 2:30 PM
Plan your visit at https://historicphiladelphia.org/once-upon-a-nation/visit/
07/08/2026
📖🌟 Who's your History Hero?
We're inviting young historians ages 8–12 to share the story of a historical figure who inspires them. From famous changemakers to overlooked heroes, tell us about someone whose actions, courage, or values made a lasting impact.
As you write, think about:
✨ What made this person extraordinary?
✨ What moment shaped their life?
✨ Why are they remembered today?
✨ Why do they inspire you?
✨ How can you inspire others to learn about them?
Ready to enter?
📝 Write an original story (50–200 words, or no more than one handwritten or typed page)
📚 Include the sources you used for research
📧 Email your submission to [email protected]
🎭 Entering as a History Maker? Include your story plus a photo of yourself in costume portraying your historical figure.
Entries are due by Friday, July 17.
Visit https://bit.ly/4vkHTXg for full contest details!
Experience a unique after-hours tour of Independence Hall.
Watch history unfold through live, immersive encounters with the Founding Fathers, experiencing their conversations up close and without the daytime crowds.
Transport yourself back to the summer of 1776 at Independence After Hours. This exclusive evening experience begins as your Colonial host “sneaks” you into the Pennsylvania State House, setting the stage for an intimate look at the debates, tensions, and personalities that defined a nation.
The evening concludes at a local watering hole, with a cocktail or mocktail and appearances by History Makers. Limited to 30 guests per night.
Purchase your tickets today at https://historicphiladelphia.org/events/independence-after-hours/
07/06/2026
Last week, Historic Philadelphia, Inc. celebrated our nation’s 250th Birthday, welcoming visitors from all over the city, country, and world. On July 2, we joined partners across the Historic District for Red, White, & Blue To-Do, featuring a Living Liberty Bell, parade, concerts, and a drone show over Independence Mall. It was the perfect way to mark America’s semiquincentennial.
The summer’s not over yet! Once Upon A Nation fun continues all summer long through Labor Day. Experience history where it happened and plan your visit today at https://historicphiladelphia.org/
Photos by Elevated Angles for Visit Philadelphia, Joseph Kaczmarek, and Christopher Brown
Ben Franklin wishes everyone a happy 4th of July and welcomes French fans into the city for the big game today! He hopes you have as much fun in Philadelphia as he did in France 😌😉
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601 Walnut Street, Suite 130
Philadelphia, PA
19106