Liberty Bell

LOVED that this was a free exhibit! Really cool piece of history with a lot of information to read. We had the opportunity to use an authentic quill and write our names. We parked at Bourse Garage on 44 S 4th St. (400 Ranstead St.), and also were able to see the American Revolution Museum.

Visiting the Liberty Bell was something I really wanted to do — not just because of history, but also because of pop culture (yes, How I Met Your Mother fans will understand). We arrived later in the day, so everything was already closed, and the bell was behind glass — no chance to get close to it. But honestly, just seeing it in person was still worth it. It’s simple, symbolic, and surprisingly emotional once you’re actually there. The crack, the inscription, and the quiet atmosphere around it really make you pause and think about what freedom meant back then — and what it still means now. Even without going inside, the experience felt meaningful. Quick stop, strong impression. If you’re in Philadelphia, it’s definitely worth seeing — even if you’re just passing through.

The Liberty Bell is a must‑see landmark in Philadelphia. The exhibit is free, easy to visit, and gives a clear look at the bell’s history and its famous crack. With Independence Hall right behind it, the setting makes the experience even more meaningful. It’s a quick but powerful stop for anyone exploring the city’s historic district.

The birthplace of the United States Constitution, the Liberty Bell at the Independence Historical National Park is a fun way to spend a few hours exploring and learning more about our country’s history. Surrounded by 18th century architect, visitors can still enter the very same buildings where our founding fathers wrote and signed the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution, passed law, and came together as a nation.

There was a line to enter but it moved along. You have to go through TSA to get inside, but it was smooth. You walk a little further down the hallway and it’s right there. In the hallway they have signs and information about the bell. They have some guidelines about taking photos. Then you exit. It was a little underwhelming but cool to experience.

This exhibit is more powerful now than when I visited in 6th grade. I loved the way the exhibit told the story of the bell so that by the time you arrived at the actual artifact you were struck by its significance. A ranger told me that the ground had been intentionally sloped upward by just a few degrees to represent to that the path to freedom is an uphill climb.

A place all Americans should visit. The building is small and concise. First you enter the area where the history of the Liberty Bell is explained, then you enter the area where the Liberty Bell is displayed. The entire exhibition is well worth visiting.

This is something I have always wanted to see, the history is fascinating. I had planned a whole day but there definitely is not enough to keep you busy for the whole day so do research and take in the city, it is unbelievably walkable, easy to navigate and a beautiful city

When in Philly, it's a must. The Liberty Bell is a timeless symbol of American independence and resilience. Cast in 1752, it initially was used to remind lawmakers of legal sessions and alert citizens to meetings. It famously cracked soon after its arrival in Philadelphia, but its message of freedom only grew stronger. Its iconic inscription, "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land," became a rallying cry during the Revolutionary War and unto today. Having visited the Liberty Bell multiple times, but its history always has more to reveal. The more I go, I realize it's not just a bell, it's a piece of America's story and a symbol of freedom and liberty.

You're a replica also, then! I wonder if the James A. Byrne they named the nearby courthouse after is related to the Jayne Byrne in Chicago --- because that stopped being cool a while ago. There's the Liberty Bell, the Gong Show (it was game show in the 70's), the Closing Bell, and Last Call. I'll have you youngsters know that I didn't get here via the Statue of Liberty at Ellis Island, and my English is perfectly-adequate for not expressing how I really feel. I will be independent of you people yet! "Gentlefolk may cry 'pizza, pizza!' But there is no pizza. Is cheese so dear or slices so sweet As to be purchased at the price of trillions. I don't care what you think, powers that be. For I care not what choices others may make. But as for me, as for me..."

We came here to see history. Before seeing the bell, I read the reviews. How can you get mad about seeing the bell. We went there and yes there are guards. It's a national treasure ! The bell was cool. It's a bell but a famous one that our countries history is a part of. Grow up for the people who don't respect the liberty bell.

When my brother first told me he was moving to Philadelphia, one of my first thoughts was "oh! The Liberty Bell is there!" Fast forward a few years later, I'm paying him a visit and it's time to see this bell. The bell was everything I hoped and more. There was a self-led tour leading up to the bell, allowing visitors to learn more about its history and the "main characters" in its creation. Park Rangers were speckled about to answer questions and corral visitors as needed. I was so excited to get a stamp for the bell in my National Park passport!

Having lived in Philly for two years now, it was time to see the Liberty Bell. A long walk to 6th and Market found me at the entrance to the entire center. I went on a random weekday afternoon so the line was fairly short. I do not think any Philadelphian would wait in a long line to see the bell. Primarily because you can see it from the window, and the inside of the center leaves a bit to be desired. I went through security and belined it for the bell since i was short on time. I said, there's the bell, and then I left. Okay so yes it is a bit underwhelming but HEY history is here! In Philly! We all gotta take it in and I am glad I went. A fine free activity for tourists and a good stop by if it's not too busy.

A definite must see when visiting Philly! It's free to visit but definitely expect a line no matter what time of day. We tried visiting towards the end of the day, which wasn't the best idea since the line was crazy and they were getting ready to close. We decided to go the following morning when they opened, which was a much better decision. The line wasn't as crazy. You'll also go through a security line so expect to take your jacket and belt off if you're wearing either. After you're through security, you can walk around and learn more about the history of the Liberty Bell. There's a ton of information to absorb so leave some time to read it. The Liberty Bell is in the rear of the building and the security guards will give everyone the opportunity to see it. They don't allow people to stand in the middle and block it, which is nice. Overall, a must in the Philly history lesson!

"So what exactly is the significance of the Liberty Bell?" I asked my husband. He fumfered a little, then said, "I'm not exactly sure." Aha! Neither was I. The Liberty Bell is a symbol of the American Revolution. It's a symbol of liberties gained and a reminder of liberties denied. And what about that wide crack? It's a result of an attempt to fix a thin crack that destroyed the bell's tone after the American Revolution. If you're visiting Philadelphia, drop by. It's free. You wait on line -- in the dead of summer the line was much longer than it was this Tuesday. You'll go through a metal detector, stick your bag on a conveyer belt and then enter what's akin to a mini-museum. Keep walking ... and there it is! You can even wait on another line if you want your companion to snap a photo of you standing next to the bell. And if you don't want to deal with lines? You can actually see the bell pretty clearly outside through a window.

It's a must see for all Americans. It has a small history museum. Be advised that lines might get very long during the weekend. Security is very tight, they ask you to take out all metals, belt, phone etc. It probably takes 15-30 mins depending how much time you spend for the museum part.

Free and historic and iconic site in Philadelphia. The like to get in was pretty long but went quickly and security was easy. Super historic and great place.

The Liberty Bell is a must see in Philly and guess what? It's also FREE! I highly recommend visiting! It is a symbol of so many things for so many people still relevant to do this day. Across the street is independence hall, which you need to buy tickets for. It's an awesome place to visit too.

Be prepared for lines! I was not adequately prepared when I decided to go see the bell, so I had no idea it was now enclosed in a building. So I was not prepared to go through security and have to wait in a line. At first, it was difficult to find the entrance and where the line started, but I believe that was because they were doing some work in the area. The lines move quickly, but just keep in mind obviously no outside food or drink is allowed inside and everything goes through a security scanner. There is a mini museum before you reach the bell at the end, but you can always just skip that and go straight to the bell itself. I definitely think it's worth seeing at least once just for the history.

This is a nice, free piece of history to visit while in Philly. Because it's a government regulated area, be prepared to remove your jackets etc, similar to TSA. lol. In the building you can learn a lot about the importance of the Liberty Bell in history and you get to take pics of and with the actual bell. It should go without saying but "do NOT touch the bell. Definitely witnessed some people being scolded for this.

They did such a nice job when they designed this place. The Liberty Bell Center is located across the street from Independence Hall. You get a nice view of it through the window behind the bell. The Liberty Bell was once located in the steeple of Independence Hall back when it was known as the Pennsylvania State House. This center was build around 20 years ago and has lots of educational material to read as you wait in line to see the bell. Security is tight here and you have to go through metal detectors. But the great thing is that admission is free. I have been here a number of times and always enjoy seeing the Liberty Bell up close. The Liberty Bell was commissioned in 1752 and has been a symbol of freedom for centuries. In the early days, it was used to alert the public of proclamations that needed to be read or if danger was near. It most likely rang when the Declaration of Independence was first read to the public on July 8, 1776. They think the bell cracked after many years of heavy use. The Liberty Bell weighs 2,080 pounds and moved around a lot in later centuries before its permanent place here at the Liberty Bell Center. Next door is the Independence Visitor Center if you want to buy gifts, food or use the restrooms.

This is a must in Philly! The wait isn't too bad. Maybe about 15 minutes waiting to go through security and waiting in line for photo ops. It is very informative before you see the bell. Try driving around nearby streets for free parking!

Definitely recommend seeing the liberty bell if want something quick and historical to see in Philly. As you enter they have you put your items and coats through a security check and xray like the airport. Plenty of security was there to make sure things were safe and I liked reading the history of visitors that come from around the world to see the bell.

We were on vacation and saw this online. We decided to come. There wasn't too many people. You go through a metal detector. It's fast to take a picture in front of the bell. This activity is completely free. It's a family activity that's free you can't beat that.

It was about 20 or 30 minutes wait to get in, but once you are in the line moves pretty well. There is a lot to see while you make your way to the bell itself. Once there, there are plenty of ways to get a selfie or great images of your group. Definitely recommend seeing it if you get a chance.

The last time I saw the Liberty Bell was from outside and I still thought it was super cool, this visit being able to go in the Center and learn so much about it was awesome! We didn't wait longer than 15minutes and it was totally worth it. History! Philly has some serious swag, I've always known this but their history swag is what's most impressive. For those who love to touch, there's a great display where you can do just that which takes the pressure off once you're up close. A must visit, and steps from Independence Hall so definitely do both!

After visiting Independence Hall, my coworkers and I walked over to the Liberty Bell Center because we had our hearts set on seeing the liberty bell. Honestly I wanted photos with the liberty bell... and for all of the How I Met Your Mother fans, I wanted to lick the liberty bell. Don't worry I didn't get to lick it. The Liberty Bell Center is a first come first serve, get in line, no reservation type of place. There is a security check point at the entrance where there is a metal detector and your items will be scanned. This was my 3rd check within 24 hours. After entering, there were many facts about the origin and life of the liberty bell, quotes from those who fought for civil rights like the Dalai Lama and Nelson Mendela. This self guided tour takes about 20-30 minutes, and it ends at a photo opportunity with THEE Liberty Bell. There is a little perimeter fence set up around the bell but you can still get fairly close for a good picture. I came, I saw, I took my picture. Definitely an iconic must see, must visit, and must take that picture if you are visiting Philly.

The line to see the bell from inside looked to be an hour long so we just peeked at it from the outside.

What a great place to visit with so much history. It doesn't open until 9am, and when I went on a Tuesday morning, there was a line forming around 8:50am to get inside. But there's plenty to see and read outside the center as well! The inside is nice and cool, with lots of artifacts, information, videos, and of course, the Liberty Bell. No restrooms inside. To get in, there's a screening process, similar to TSA. So I recommend consolidating everything into one bag for the scanner before walking through.

What can I saw, it's the Liberty Bell. It's a must do. They have it in a nice center with displays leading up to the bell. You are able to get pictures of the bell up fairly close. We actually went through on 2 separate days.

A small museum in a modern-looking building featuring, of course, the Liberty Bell. I'm not sure if it's free year-round, but it was free when I went there. Didn't need to reserve or register. There's a security screening process, similar to TSA at airports. As a museum, it's probably not more than 20 minutes of content, so it's smaller than most.

This was interesting to go to and learn more about the Liberty bell. Also nice to get a picture in front of Liberty bell.

I am so grateful that I can say that I have seen The liberty bell!! It was a Thursday so there was no lines we literally walked right in and were able to take our time and read and take in this historic place and landmark. If you can please go and see it, your inner history buff will thank you.

Small but packed with alot of knowledge the guard on duty helped us so much and explained everything we needed ti know about the crack you can see and the original crack that you need to look a bit more closely to see. Only downside I would say is the security at the fronts demeanor as well as there's no bathrooms

Very interesting. And a great piece of US history. The Liberty Bell is on full display for you to enjoy and appreciate

The amount of history enveloped in this, Liberty Bell is unfathomable. This place is busy at all times of the day, so you can expect at least a 15 minute wait. To see the bell itself, there are no tickets required. Simply join the line and go through security before you are able to see it. The exhibit is pretty nice, and it is incredible to see the bell itself. I highly recommend going across the street to the visitor center for even more exhibits and videos.

Definitely put liberty bell on your list to see and do while in Philadelphia. There is much history behind the bell and the symbolism for our freedom and liberty as a country. There are many artifacts to see and history for you to read. The liberty bell is towards the back and can be seen from the outside if you happen to get there when the visitor center is closed. It is free to see and there can be a line that wraps around the building but they are efficient about moving people through. A big recommendation from me and a must do.

If you're like me and saw the Liberty Bell as a kid, it's worth returning now. The entire exhibit is all new and is very well done. It's also free and doesn't require an appointment or tickets like Independence Hall does. The Park Ranger usually has some interesting history bits which are fun. Kids that don't like history may find it a little boring (as with a lot of historical sites) but luckily it's a quick visit so they shouldn't be too upset if they aren't enjoying it. Get there early for the best experience. It opens pretty promptly at 9:00 and the crowd only gets larger as the day goes on.

It was ok. Lots of security to go through. The parking garage was very expensive. We were here at the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall for about an hour and it cost us $21.

Bring your cap, sun glasses and sun screen! No shade if waiting in line! See video for reference

If you're a history nerd, this is a must see and do. I went first in 1990 at age 6, before there was a lot to see and do around the Bell. The plaza is great, you'll learn a lot of our history and it's a Philly staple. Make it a point to go!

I had never visited the Liberty Bell before, but if you're in Philly, it's worth a stop! Seeing the Liberty Bell is free, and the center is very informative. The building itself is really nice and well-maintained. There is usually a line to see the bell, but it moves fast. After a quick bag check inside the center, you're good to go!

I failed to see the Liberty Bell the last time I made it out to Philadelphia, so I placed it as a high priority on my bucket list to visit while in the city for Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run. After picking up my bib for the Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run at The Pennsylvania Convention Center, I took a walk over to see this iconic symbol along with any other piece of history in the area. Admission into the center is free, but sadly by the time I arrived, the center was closed! I only saw the actual bell from the outside which is acceptable, but still, I would like to someday see it inside the center for a better viewing. Along with a glimpse of the Liberty Bell from the outside, I encountered Independence Hall, which is where both the United States Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were debated and adopted by America's Founding Fathers. I must say that seeing Independence Hall left me less bothered about not arriving at the Liberty Bell Center on time. On a future visit to Philadelphia, I can surely see myself returning to the Liberty Bell Center at a much earlier time of the day. I recommend adding the Liberty Bell Center along with Independence Hall to your bucket list if you are planning a visit to Philadelphia. ~ Be Kind. ALWAYS. ~ Thomas G

History is cool and this is a must see if you are visiting Philly. It's a simple process to visit. Find parking, walk to the center and get in line.

MUSEUM The Liberty Bell Center is a wonderful, informative museum with historic artifacts, descriptions with historical contexts, and, of course, the Liberty Bell itself. It's great to visit at least once during your visit(s) to Philadelphia. The park rangers also provide insightful commentary about the Liberty Bell and other histories. PARKING Parking lots are available throughout the area, and paid street parking at adjacent streets are available in a limited capacity.

The Liberty Bell hasn't changed at all since I saw it last in 1980 on a school trip. Lots of crowds, lots of queueing and entirely too many people today for me to revisit a forty-year-old memory. I'm not planning on being home for another three or four weeks, let's not spend it with the sniffles! Thankfully, the Liberty Bell is still visible from the outside and that's pretty okay too. Other than the Rocky Steps https://www.yelp.com/biz/rocky-steps-philadelphia?hrid=nyY2JPZaK6fH1mq39LjrJg and the Rocky Statue https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-rocky-statue-philadelphia?hrid=cIZegSVO9vseuM4rc_MBeg at the Museum of Art https://www.yelp.com/biz/philadelphia-museum-of-art-philadelphia?hrid=-hUO58DYy0mrDmqp5v9L7w, the Liberty Bell is the "must see" when you visit this wonderful city. (I'd also recommend the Constitution Center https://www.yelp.com/biz/national-constitution-center-philadelphia?hrid=jOCXhg90iiXICabHzXhPJg and the Betsy Ross House https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-betsy-ross-house-philadelphia?hrid=B_WvCh69r52hnBTpACGN6A as required touristing). The Liberty Bell Center takes you through the history of this icon of American independence and freedom. The bell was commissioned in 1751 and the wording around the top is a quote from the Book of Leviticus, "Proclaim LIBERTY Throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants Thereof". While you can see it, and I did, from the outside through a very clear window, if you've never felt the direct presence of the history from this icon, do so. It is FREE. [Review 18306 overall - 598 in Pennsylvania - 1828 of 2022.]

Liberty Bell Center was a bit underwhelming, but still a must-see. Luckily, we didn't have to wait in a very long line to get in. They have historical information as you walk up to the bell. The bell was a bit smaller than I was picturing; however, it was still cool to see just for the historical factor. That was about it. They have a large park surrounding it that was well taken care of, but that was it for the Liberty Bell Center. If there isn't a line, it should be a quick stop for you to say you saw it.

Definitely a must visit place when you're in Philadelphia. It's free admission though sometimes the wine may wrap-around the building. Though you do get in pretty quickly. There is plenty of historical information before you actually see the bell. Definitely learned quite a bit while I walked through. The bell itself is towards the back and you can actually see it from the outside through the glass if you have limited time and don't want to wait in line. Overall a great piece of history and a place you can visit even with limited time.

Such a great and historic piece that everyone in the area can visit. See the bell that rang so loud with freedom that it cracked! Did you know it predates the Revolution? It rang and begged for freedommmm (sounds like Mel Gibson's William Wallace) with some saying on its first ring when it was tested upon arrival in 1752. The bell was originally known as the State House Bell. In the late 1830s, it acquired the name of the Liberty Bell when it became a symbol of the anti-slavery movement. Go see it and learn all types of facts. Please be respectful and don't touch the bell and if crowded take your photos and then move aside to not be in everyone else's photos.

Lovely place to be able to see historical items. The liberty Bell is something to behold. My only gripe was the parking fee, $12 for 1 hour! As we were travelling throughout Philadelphia, we found that street parking is your best, reasonable option.

Everyone should visit the Liberty Bell center at least once to learn more about the history and add it to your Philly historical walking or food tour. Free to enter. Steps from Independence Hall with beautiful garden landscaping in between. The guides are very informative as well throwing in fun facts. May be long lines due to security and bag screening but once you're inside, you can peruse at your own pace. Not including wait times, would allocate 30-60 minutes for exploring inside in case you are someone who reads the plaques.

If American history is your thing, get there early or plan on standing in line for awhile.

Went there as a chaperone on a 5th grade field trip. The kids loved it. There are many historical sites in the same are (Few block radius) and many of them are free to the public. The line for the Liberty Bell was quite long, but you can walk around the side of the building and see the Bell through the glass as well as read some history and info about it without waiting in line. The independence hall exhibit is also great with tons of historical information. Great day trip.

Liberty Bell is one of the must see tourist attractions in Philly... and best of all it's free! Been here a couple of times and there is usually a line and wait to get through security to see the Liberty Bell...but worth it to see a piece of history. After getting through security, there are a couple of displays and history to read through...or you can just go straight to the Liberty Bell and come back. Be respectful wait your turn at the Liberty Bell. There is someone there who tells folks that they can stand on either side of the Liberty Bell so that folks don't have to wait one at a time...just make sure to stand on the side of the bell and not in front of it...if you take the picture at the right angle, you will not have others in your picture Another tip: Go early vs middle of the day during peak time or on the weekends.

The Liberty Bell used to be at Independence Hall until its first move Jan 1,1976 to a pavillion. In 2003 it was moved to its present site noted here. Although it is free to visit you must go through rugged security to get into the building. Once inside there are displays regarding its history. Two special items people are most interested are as follows: First is the Scripture verse engraved on it "Proclaim liberty to all the land and unto all their inhabitants thereof"-Lev.25:10 marking the the year of Jubilee. The other is how did the bell get it's famous crack? Weighing about 2000 pounds the bell was very fragile. It is believed to have gotten its first crack when it arrived in Phila in 1752. It cracked again on Feb 22, 1846 when it was rung for Washington's birthday. Yes, they actually rang this bell during its functioning lifetime. It rang for the signing of the Constitution, and marking the deaths of Franklin, Washington, A Hamilton, and Jefferson. Oddly enough it did not ring on July 4,1776 nor on July 8 of that same year when the Declaration was read to the people of the city. Also the bell was originally known as the State house bell. The name was changed in the 1830s when it became a symbol of the antislavery movement. At the very end of the hall itself is the actual bell. It's easier to have someone take your picture but you can do a selfie. Take the time to go around and see the other side of the bell. Remember you didn't just come to see the famous "crack." The windows behind it form a beautiful background of Independence Hall. There is garage parking near the Independence Hall visitor's center but it can be pricey since you are in a tourist neighborhood. Still a trip to Independence Hall would not be complete without a visit to the famous Liberty Bell.

I'll admit I missed that day in elementary school when they taught about the Liberty Bell, so when my cousin took us here during our Philly tour I had to look it up on Wikipedia! Now I know it symbolizes Freedom and Justice. It was also completed in 1752 and re-casted in 1753. The bell is made out mostly out of Copper and Tin. It weighs over 2,000 lbs., however it was surprisingly small in person. You have to pass through security before viewing the bell and luckily there's no fee to visit.

There was a very long line, and we almost didn't wait, but Thankfully it moved very fast. The line was to get through security, but you have free range and plenty of room to move around once inside. The bell is enormous and worth seeing.