National Constitution Center
| Type | History museum |
|---|---|
| Address | 525 Arch Street |
| Map | View on Google Maps |
| Neighborhood | Old City |
| Phone | (215) 409-6600 |
| Website | Official site |
| Established | 2003 |
| Collection | Constitutional artifacts and exhibits |
| Visitors | 800,000+/year |
| Admission | $19 adults, $14 children |
| Hours | Wed-Sun 10am-5pm |
| Transit | 5th Street Station (MFL), SEPTA buses |
| Architect | Pei Cobb Freed & Partners |
The National Constitution Center is an interactive museum on Independence Mall in Old City, Philadelphia, dedicated to the U.S. Constitution. The only museum devoted to the Constitution, it features interactive exhibits, theatrical performances, and rare documents including an original copy of the Bill of Rights.[1]
History
The National Constitution Center was established by the Constitution Heritage Act of 1988, signed by President Reagan to create "the only institution in America established by Congress to disseminate information about the U.S. Constitution on a nonpartisan basis."
The center opened on July 4, 2003, on Independence Mall, blocks from where the Constitution was signed in 1787.
Exhibits
Freedom Rising
Every visit begins with Freedom Rising, a 17-minute multimedia theatrical presentation in a 360-degree theater. Live actors and projection technology tell the story of "We the People" and the Constitution's journey.
The Story of We the People
The main exhibition hall explores:
- The Constitutional Convention of 1787
- The Bill of Rights
- Constitutional amendments
- Landmark Supreme Court cases
- Civil rights and constitutional change
- Interactive voting and debate activities
Signers' Hall
Life-size bronze statues of the 42 delegates present on signing day, September 17, 1787:
- Visitors can walk among the Founders
- Photo opportunities with Benjamin Franklin, George Washington
- Experience the scale of the Constitutional Convention
Rare Documents
- Original copy of the Bill of Rights
- Rare printings of the Constitution
- Historic documents and artifacts
- Rotating special exhibitions
The Building
Designed by Pei Cobb Freed & Partners:
- 160,000 square feet
- Grand Hall with views of Independence Mall
- Modern architecture on historic site
- Flexible event spaces
- Rooftop with skyline views
Programs
- Town hall debates and discussions
- Constitutional scholars and authors
- Civics education programs
- Annual Naturalization ceremonies
- Presidential programming
Visiting
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Hours | Wed-Sun 10am-5pm |
| Admission | $19 adults, $14 children 6-18, free under 6 |
| Address | 525 Arch Street |
| Time needed | 2 hours |
| Best for | Families, students, civics enthusiasts |
Tips
- Don't miss Freedom Rising—it sets up the exhibits
- Signers' Hall is a highlight for photos
- Interactive exhibits engage children
- Combine with Independence Hall and Liberty Bell
Getting There
- SEPTA Subway — 5th Street Station (Market-Frankford Line)
- SEPTA Bus — Routes 17, 33, 48, 57
- Walking — On Independence Mall at Arch Street
- Parking — AutoPark at Independence Mall
Frequently Asked Questions
See Also
References
- ↑ "National Constitution Center". National Constitution Center. Retrieved December 23, 2025