Liberty Bell Center

The Basics

Visit the Liberty Bell Center to see the bell up close and read its famous inscription, which has been an inspiration to US leaders such as George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and the heroes of the Civil Rights movement. Many Philadelphia city tours include a visit to the center, including walking excursions, Segway tours, small-group driving tours, and hop-on hop-off bus tours. Most excursions also include stops at nearby landmarks such as the National Constitution Center and Betsy Ross House.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There’s almost always a line to enter the Liberty Bell Center, but you can also view the bell through a window on the western side of the building.

• Wheelchairs are available to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis at the Independence Visitor Center, and most buildings in the Independence National Historic Park are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

• You must pass through security to visit the Liberty Bell Center; bring only small bags to minimize screening time.

How to Get There

The Liberty Bell Center is part of the Independence National Historical Park, located in Philadelphia’s Old City historic district. The nearest train station is located at 8th and Market streets, and the nearest Metro station is 5th Street Station. Street parking is scarce, but there are paid lots nearby. The PHLASH bus operates seasonally (spring and summer) with stops at 20 locations, including the Independence Visitor Center, the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Philadelphia Zoo.

When to Get There

You can visit the Liberty Bell Center year-round, although the site is typically packed with visitors during summer and school vacation weeks. Opt for an early morning visit to avoid lines and crowds.

The Liberty Bell’s Famous Crack

Originally cracked during a test ring in 1752, the bell was fixed, cracked again after almost 100 years of regular use, then fixed again in 1846, prior to the anniversary of George Washington's birthday. The bell seen today is proof that “stop drilling,” the technique used to repair that last crack, worked.

What is the Liberty Bell, and what does the Liberty Bell symbolize?

The Liberty Bell is a bell made of copper and tin that was installed in 1752 in Philadelphia as a symbol of US freedom and justice. Many Americans are inspired by the bell’s symbolism and what’s engraved on it: “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof.”

Can you still see the Liberty Bell crack?

Yes, you can still see the crack in the Liberty Bell in Philly. The bell was recast after it cracked, but the crack reappeared in the bell. People come from all over to see the Liberty Bell, which represents freedom and justice in the United States.

Is there an admission fee to visit the Liberty Bell Center?

No, there’s no admission fee to visit Liberty Bell Center and see the Liberty Bell. The center, located at 6th and Market Street in Philadelphia, is open daily, typically from 9am to 5pm, and you can arrive at any time to see the bell.

How long should I plan to spend at the Liberty Bell Center?

Plan to spend about 30 minutes at Liberty Bell Center, keeping in mind that you’ll need more time if it’s crowded on the day you visit. Most visitors spend about 5 minutes taking in views (and taking pictures) of the Liberty Bell and about 20 minutes at the center’s exhibits.

Are there guided tours available at the Liberty Bell Center?

No, there aren’t guided tours offered at Liberty Bell Center. However, there are many walking, trolley, and small group tours in Philadelphia that focus on American history and the founders of the United States. Some stops on those tours may include the Betsy Ross House and Congress Hall.

What other attractions are near the Liberty Bell Center?

Other Philadelphia attractions to visit near the Liberty Bell Center include Philadelphia City Hall, Independence Hall, the Museum of American Revolution, Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, the Betsy Ross House, the Second Bank of the United States Portrait Gallery, and the President's House Site.

Ways to explore

Visit the Liberty Bell Center to see the bell up close and learn more about its history (and how it got its famous crack). The free-to-visit landmark is easy to explore independently—most visits are relatively quick and can be slotted into a full day spent discovering Philadelphia’s Independence National Historical Park.

Many Philadelphia tours include a visit to the center, including walking excursions, Segway tours, small-group driving tours, and hop-on hop-off bus tours. Most excursions also include stops at nearby landmarks such as the National Constitution Center and Betsy Ross House.

Accessibility

The Liberty Bell Center is accessible to people who use wheelchairs.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, handheld bag, water bottle with screw-on lid, sun or rain gear

What to wear

Wear comfortable layers and good walking shoes, especially if visiting as part of a full-day sightseeing tour.

Not allowed

Open food or drink containers, firearms

Amenities

Park rangers, proximity to Independence Visitor Center

Address

The Liberty Bell Center is located between Market and Chestnut streets, near Philadelphia’s Old City neighborhood. The area is easy to reach by car, taxi, public transit, or on foot. Many guided tours that visit the landmark also include transportation.

Driving

The Liberty Bell Center is easily accessible via major thoroughfares, such as Market Street. Paid parking lots are located near the Liberty Bell Center, and some street parking may also be available.

Public transportation

Take the Market-Frankford line (also known as the L) to Fifth Street Independence Hall. Alternatively, take commuter trains to nearby Jefferson Station, or use the seasonal PHLASH bus.

Best times to visit

The Liberty Bell Center is open daily, from mid-morning until early evening. Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds.

Best days to visit

As a general rule, the Liberty Bell Center is busiest on weekends, particularly in summer—aim for a weekday instead.

Best months to visit

Summer can bring crowds and soaring temperatures to Philadelphia; other times of year may offer more comfortable sightseeing.

Special events

Independence Day, celebrated on July 4, is a great time to visit the Liberty Bell and other patriotic Philly attractions.