Visiting Old City Hall

The Supreme Court chamber is undergoing renovation at the current time, but there is a lobby exhibit and store located in the building.

NPS photo

 

Location
Old City Hall is located at the corner of 5th and Chestnut Streets. Enter through the north door on Chestnut Street (turn the knob, then push the door open). This building sits adjacent to the security screening area, but it's best to visit it prior to entering security. The Supreme Court chamber is currently closed for renovation, but there is a store and a women's suffrage exhibit in the lobby.

 

Hours and Fees
The store and lobby exhibit are open daily, 9am to 4:30pm. The Supreme Court chamber is closed for renovations.

Admission is FREE

 

Ticketing
No tickets are required to visit the store or lobby exhibit. Entrance is first-come, first-served.

 

Exhibits
The building currently houses "Raising Their Voices for Women's Suffrage," a temporary exhibit about suffrage activities - rallies, protests, and celebrations - that took place on and around Independence Square, including the unchaining of the Women's Liberty Bell (also known as the Justice Bell) in September 1920. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the suffrage office desk!

 

Accessibility
Old City Hall is wheelchair accessible through the west door (look for the ramp). There is one step up into the courtroom; ask the ranger for the portable ramp. Assistive listening and audio description is available upon request. Learn more about the accessibility services offered throughout the park on our website.

 

America's National Parks Store on Independence Square

The store sits adjacent to the old Supreme Court chamber inside the building. The store is open Wednesday thorugh Sunday, 11am to 3pm. This America's National Parks Store offers a variety of souvenirs, such as miniature Liberty Bells, postcards, magnets, park ranger-recommended books and films, and t-shirts. Many fine gift items are available as well. A portion of the proceeds goes to support programming at Independence National Historical Park.

 

Images and Historical Information
See images of Old City Hall in our photo gallery below. Additional information about the building is available on the park's website.

 

More to Explore on Independence Square
Independence Hall
Great Essentials Exhibit in the West Wing
Congress Hall
Museum of the American Philosophical Society