Last updated: January 11, 2023
Thing to Do
Hear the Centennial Bell Ring
NPS Photo
Waiting for your Independence Hall tour? Grabbing some photos of Independence Square? Take a moment and listen for the Centennial Bell. It rings on the hour, every hour.
The Centennial Bell first rang to celebrate the nation’s 100th birthday in 1876. Hanging in the same spot the Liberty Bell once did, the Centennial Bell includes a unique mix of materials. It contains four melted cannons--one from both the British and American sides from the American Revolution and one from both the Union and Confederate armies from the Civil War. It's hard to tell from the ground, but it's a big bell--big enough for an adult to stand up inside. Weighing in at 13,000 pounds, it is almost six times heavier than the Liberty Bell.
Just like the crowds celebrating in 1876, you can listen to the Centennial Bell ring on Independence Square (try to find out how many blocks away you can still hear it).
The Centennial Bell first rang to celebrate the nation’s 100th birthday in 1876. Hanging in the same spot the Liberty Bell once did, the Centennial Bell includes a unique mix of materials. It contains four melted cannons--one from both the British and American sides from the American Revolution and one from both the Union and Confederate armies from the Civil War. It's hard to tell from the ground, but it's a big bell--big enough for an adult to stand up inside. Weighing in at 13,000 pounds, it is almost six times heavier than the Liberty Bell.
Just like the crowds celebrating in 1876, you can listen to the Centennial Bell ring on Independence Square (try to find out how many blocks away you can still hear it).
Details
Duration
1-5 Minutes
The ringing of the Centennial Bell can be quite short or up to a few minutes, depending on the time of day or if there is a special event including the bell.
Activity
Self-Guided Tours - Walking
Pets Allowed
Yes with Restrictions
Pets are permitted in the non-secure area of Independence Square. Dogs must be leashed.
Pets are not allowed inside the secure area of Independence Square, unless a designated assistive dog or miniature horse. Read the regulations concerning pets and service animals in the Superintendent's Compendium.
Pets are not allowed inside the secure area of Independence Square, unless a designated assistive dog or miniature horse. Read the regulations concerning pets and service animals in the Superintendent's Compendium.
Activity Fee
No
Activity is Free
Location
Independence Square
Independence Square can be accessed two ways. To access the secure part of the square, enter through the security tent at 5th and Chestnut Streets. Entrance to the back of the square is available without security, and can be accessed with staircases on 5th and 6th Streets, and from Walnut Street between 5th and 6th Streets.
Reservations
No
Season
Check the Operating Hours web page for up-to-date information on building hours.
Accessibility Information
The secure area of Independence Square is wheelchair accessible. There are NO restrooms (accessible or otherwise) on Independence Square, but restrooms are available in the nearby Independence Visitor Center. Learn more about the accessibility services offered throughout the park.