Liberty Bell, Philadelphia

Favorite thing: Buy the PHLASH day pass. As it happens, the hotel I stayed for the night (Marriott Philadelphia) was at the 1st stop (12th & Filbert Street, across from Reading Terminal Market) of this convenient & economical shuttle service which operates every 10-15 minutes. For a price of US$4 a day, I get to see the major attractions of Philadelphia!

Along its route, the first attraction is at Stop No. 4, which is the LIBERTY BELL. This pavilion forms part of the INDEPENDENCE NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK where many park rangers are at hand to answer any question you have about the origin of the independence movement & the legacy of the Declaration of Independence.

The LIBERTY BELL symbolises the movement, the crusades' inspiration for liberty & freedom. It was first given the name by 19th century abolitionists who sought to end slavery. This very famous bell was originally cast in London, England & brought to Philadelphia in 1752 for the 50th anniversary celebration of the Pennsylvania's charter of privileges. The bell cracked at its 1st ring & was recast a second & third time. Thus the inscription of 'Pass & Stow' on the bell.

Official Site: NPS.gov.

Fondest memory: To stroll along the streets of Philadelphia is amounting to making one's way back in time & walking along the paths of the very famous & legendary Americans in the world. Imagine this, not so long ago, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams & John Hancock were all here, struggling with the choices, directing the consequences & eternally changing the country's way of life & the world's destiny.

Somewhere in Time, what we hold dear today (freedom, independence & happiness) were given form here & the world was reborned. This to me is the most exciting feature of Philadelphia.

Favorite thing: When you visit the Liberty Bell, first know that you might want to go to the Liberty Bell Center on Market between 5th and 6th. The Bell itself is in a separate building a block or two away.

The Center has all the information, videos, and presentations about the Bell. The actual location of the Bell has only...the Bell - and metal detectors and security...

You must stand in line to see the Bell itself, as access is limited (because of the size of the space or lack thereof). Therefore, you will want to go see the Bell real early in the day, before the tour buses arrive.

Fondest memory: When you see the Bell, you are only a few feet away - despite the crowd in the picture, you can get close to the Bell with a little effort (it helps if you want to hear the Park Ranger speak, anyway).

Favorite thing: attend the presentation of the Liberty Bell by the Ranger. You will know why the Bell is broken. But I prefer the complete report of Ladyfisher I copy on the Travelogue.

Fondest memory: The visit is free and, during the high season there is a line. The Liberty Bell pavillion is in front of the Independence Hall.

Favorite thing: When visiting Philly, you absolutely must see Liberty Bell. It is most important site for tourists. Liberty Bell will tell you about Our country history and how our freedom started.

Fondest memory: If I have to leave Philly,thing I miss most will be Philly cheese stakes.