The Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia

The words of the Declaration of Independence changed the world. The effects of this revolutionary document continue to reverberate today, inspiring more than 100 similar declarations of human rights and self-government around the world.

“The American Revolution is one of the greatest stories in human history and Philadelphia was its headquarters – the command center – where so many iconic moments took place,” said Michael Quinn, Museum President and CEO. “There is no better place to celebrate the birth of our nation and learn the inspiring – and often surprising – stories behind how it came to be.”

Highlights of the Museum of the American Revolution exhibits include a gallery dedicated to the Declaration of Independence, which features two printings of the Declaration, including a German newspaper printing that is on loan from Gettysburg College, and a Massachusetts broadside, on loan from a private lender. Also in the Museum’s collection, but not currently on display, is the first newspaper printing of the Declaration, which ran in the Pennsylvania Evening Post of July 6, 1776.

In a mini-theater that evokes the inside of Independence Hall, visitors will find themselves amid the unfolding debate and decision-making that took place in the weeks leading up to the adoption of the Declaration during a short film entitled “The Authors of Independence.” Through an interactive touchscreen installation, visitors will learn about the 88 local declarations of support for independence that preceded the one issued by the Continental Congress. The gallery also features a wall that explores what “the promise of equality” meant for all people, including women, enslaved people, and laboring men.

After exploring the Museum’s exhibits, visitors can ponder the question “Would I have joined the mob to pull down the statue of King George in 1776?” Visitors will cast their vote to see where they stand among other visitors.

In the Museum’s outdoor plaza, powerful words from the Declaration are emblazoned in limestone on the Museum’s exterior wall. On the northern side of the building, a large bronze sculptural panel of John Trumbull’s iconic painting “The Declaration of Independence” depicts the presentation of the Declaration of Independence to the Continental Congress by the drafting committee, which included Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson.

You'll find the Museum of the American Revolution located at 101 South Third Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. If you need a zip code for your GPS it's 19106. Admission is $12.00 for adults and $10.00 for children. During the summertime they're open daily from 9:30 AM to 7 PM. Their hours change throughout the season, so please check out their website for the most current & up-to-date schedule and information.