Visiting Old City Hall

Finished in 1791, Old City Hall served as Philadelphia's City Hall.  During the 1790s, Philadelphia was the nation's temporary capital, and the city often lent its courtroom out to the federal judiciary, including the Supreme Court of the United States.  Here, the U.S. Supreme Court made its first decisions.

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. It's best to visit it prior to entering security.

 

Hours and Fees
Open daily 9 am - 5 pm. Closes at 3pm on Christmas Eve, December 24.
Closed on all major federal holidays except Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, and Veteran's Day.

Admission is FREE.

 

Ticketing
No tickets are required to visit. Entrance to Old City Hall is on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

Exhibits
See the room where the Supreme Court of the United States met from 1791-1800. Most of the furnishings are from the time period, but not original to the room. A park ranger is available to answer questions.

 

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. Learn more about the accessibility services offered throughout the park on our website.

 

Independence Square Museum Store
The store sits adjacent to the old Supreme Court chamber inside the building. This Eastern National 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. 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