Editing Independence Hall (section)

== Visiting Independence Hall ==

=== Tickets and Admission ===

All visitors must obtain a timed entry ticket to enter Independence Hall. Tickets are free but required to manage crowd flow and preserve the historic site. Visitors can secure tickets online in advance through [https://www.recreation.gov Recreation.gov] or at the Independence Visitor Center at 6th and Market Streets. Walk-up tickets are available but limited, especially during peak seasons (spring through fall and holiday weekends).<ref name="nps-tickets">{{cite web |url=https://www.nps.gov/inde/planyourvisit/independencehalltickets.htm |title=Independence Hall Tickets |publisher=National Park Service |access-date=December 22, 2025}}</ref>

Admission to Independence Hall is completely free. While timed entry tickets are required, there is no charge for the tickets themselves when obtained at the Visitor Center. Tickets booked online through Recreation.gov carry a small service fee.

=== Tours ===

Standard ranger-led tours of Independence Hall last approximately 20 minutes and depart every 20 minutes throughout the day from 10:40 AM to 4:00 PM. An extended 40-minute tour is offered at 4:20 PM daily. All visits are conducted via mandatory guided tours—visitors cannot explore the building independently.<ref name="nps-visiting">{{cite web |url=https://www.nps.gov/inde/planyourvisit/independencehall.htm |title=Visiting Independence Hall |publisher=National Park Service |access-date=December 22, 2025}}</ref>

Visitors should arrive at the security screening entrance on Chestnut Street at least 15-30 minutes before their scheduled tour time. During peak season (March through Labor Day), arriving 30 minutes early is recommended. The security process is similar to airport screening—large bags, weapons, and certain other items are prohibited.

=== The Liberty Bell ===

The [[Liberty Bell]] is not inside Independence Hall. The bell is displayed in the Liberty Bell Center, a separate building located across Chestnut Street from Independence Hall. The Liberty Bell Center is free to visit and does not require tickets—visitors simply pass through a security screening. The bell originally hung in Independence Hall's steeple from 1753 until it was moved in 1846 after the crack expanded and rendered it unringable.

=== Hours and Closures ===

Independence Hall is open seven days a week, including weekends and most federal holidays. Standard operating hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, with the last tour departing at 4:20 PM. The security screening area closes 15 minutes before building closure or earlier if all tours are full. Hours may vary seasonally; visitors should check the official NPS website before planning their visit.

'''Important:''' Independence Hall will be closed to visitors from November 13, 2025, to January 28, 2026, for comprehensive interior preservation work in preparation for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.<ref name="nps-visiting"/>

=== Photography ===

Photography is permitted inside Independence Hall for personal, non-commercial use. Flash photography and tripods are not allowed, and visitors should be mindful of tour group flow when taking pictures. Video recording is also permitted under the same guidelines.

=== Transportation and Parking ===

There is no dedicated parking lot at Independence Hall, but several public parking garages operate within walking distance in [[Old City, Philadelphia|Old City]] and [[Center City]]. Street parking with meters is available but limited. The most convenient option for visitors is public transportation—the [[SEPTA]] Market-Frankford Line stops at 5th Street Station, one block from Independence Hall. Multiple SEPTA bus routes also serve the area.

=== Accessibility ===

Independence Hall is wheelchair accessible. Ramps provide access to the building, and accessible restrooms are available. Service animals are permitted on tours. Assistive listening devices are available for guided tours upon request at the Independence Visitor Center.