After a 42-day closure caused by the federal government shutdown, the Liberty Bell has reopened to visitors, but just as one major historic site welcomes guests back, another is temporarily closing its doors. Independence Hall has announced a two-month shutdown as preparations begin for America’s 250th anniversary.
For many tourists, Philadelphia’s historic landmarks are more than just attractions.
“Oh my God, this is where the history happened,” said Markeisha Suggs, a visitor from Iowa. “It’s an inspiring moment where you can see that my forefathers and the people who paved the way for me were here.”
The Liberty Bell’s reopening has been a welcome surprise for guests like Nick and Caitilin, who didn’t realize it would be open during their visit.
“We were just kind of scrolling through and didn’t plan to be around it,” they said. “But we stopped by and we’re glad we got to see it.”
While the Liberty Bell is back in operation, Independence Hall is now closed for renovations tied to America’s 250th anniversary. Visitors can only view the building from the outside.
“It’s still monumental,” said Joey, Dylan, and Allisyn, filmmakers and actors visiting from out of town. “It’s an amazing experience… even if it’s from the outside.”
The trio said they came to Philadelphia partly because of the movie National Treasure, which features the historic site.
“We’re here because of National Treasure,” they said. “We’re filmmakers, and we watched it last night.”
Although they were disappointed to miss the chance to tour Independence Hall, they said it only gives them another reason to return.
“Anytime you travel anywhere, you’re going to miss 99% of the city,” they said. “Next time we’re here, hopefully it’s open again and we can go inside to see all the different rooms where the Declaration was signed.”
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