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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
America's first capital city is rich in American history and culture and it's historical roots are very deep. As the seat of American government during the first crucial decades of American independence, Philadelphia was America's greatest city.
Today, the city has progressed into a thriving destination with modern attractions, a wide array of dining options, a booming nightlife scene and a wealth of diverse shopping experiences, from independent boutiques and upscale shops to outlet stores and discount malls.
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 Independence National Historic Park
(215) 965-2305
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143 South Third Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106
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Independence Hall and the related historical buildings which make up the 45-acre park witnessed an exciting time - when 18th century delegates argued over the next step in the dangerous game of rebellion and then issued the Declaration of Independence. The park is also home to the original Liberty Bell that rang to signal American independence and Congress Hall, meeting place of the US Congress from 1790 to 1800.
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Valley Forge National Historical Park
(610) 783-1077
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1400 North Outer Line Drive
King of Prussia, PA 19406
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This 3,600-acre Historical Park is a reminder of freedom won by men's sacrifices long ago. It was here that General George Washington forged his Continental Army into a fighting force during the winter encampment of 1777-78. Though no military battle was fought here, 2000 men died from a fierce winter and lack of adequate supplies.
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Rodin Museum
(215) 763-8100
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Benjamin Franklin Parkway / 22nd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19101
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Opened to the public in 1929, the Rodin Museum houses 124 sculptures, including bronze casts of the artist's greatest works: The Thinker, perhaps the most famous sculpture in the world; The Burghers of Calais, his most heroic and moving historical tribute; Eternal Springtime, one of his most powerful works; and the culminating creation of his career, The Gates of Hell, on which the artist worked from 1880 until his death in 1917.
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Philadelphia Museum of Art
(215) 763-8100
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Benjamin Franklin Parkway / 26nd Street
Philadelphia, PA 19130
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Showcasing more than 2,000 years of exceptional human creativity, the collections and special exhibitions in the 600,000 square foot, neoclassic Philadelphia Museum of Art present more than 200 galleries consisting of some 300,000 masterpieces of painting, sculpture, decorative arts and architectural settings from Europe, Asia and the Americas.
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Philadelphia Zoo
(215) 243-1100
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3400 West Girard Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19104
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The 42-acre zoo, America's first zoo, is home to more than 1600 rare and exotic animals from around the world. Exhibits include the PECO Primate Reserve featuring ten species of primates; the Reptile and Amphibian House exhibiting 87 species of amphibians; and the Treehouse, an activity-oriented discovery center, which features larger-than-life replicas of animal habitats for children to explore and learn about life from the animal's point of view.
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The United States Mint
(215) 408-0209
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151 North Independence Mall East
Philadelphia, PA 19106
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Touring the United States Mint is a fascinating experience for those of all ages and one that will be remembered for a lifetime. Tours cover both the present state of coin manufacturing as well as the history of the Mint. Learn about the craftsmanship required at all stages of the minting process, from the original designs and sculptures to the actual striking of the coins.
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Photo credit: Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation
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