​Philadelphia also had the nation's first university, the University of Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia Packet and Daily Advertiser its first daily newspaper along with America's first post office, firefighting service, hospital, zoo and the first World Fair.

The Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and signed in Philadelphia at Independence Hall, a World Heritage Site, and the city was one of the early capitals of the United States (1790 to 1800).

George Washington was inaugurated as the first President of the United States in Congress Hall, located in Independence National Historical Park.

The Liberty Bell, originally the State House Bell, was located in the Pennsylvania State House now Independence Hall.

It is also rumoured to be the spot where Benjamin Franklin performed his famous kite-and-key experiment to show the connection between lightning and electricity.

The patriot and Philadelphia Betsy Ross is credited with sewing the first American Flag with the Betsy Ross House on Arch Street.

Philadelphia's Walnut Street Theatre is the oldest continuously operating performance theatre in the entire English-speaking world, having opened in 1809.

The first performance was attended by President Thomas Jefferson and the Marquis de Lafayette.

The 32-house Elfreth's Alley is the oldest continuously inhabited street in the nation, with houses dating back to 1720–1830.

Useful links

​ www.discoverPHL.com