Welcome to the National Constitution Center on Independence Mall in Historic Philadelphia—Top 7 Exhibits and Experiences for Students
The National Constitution Center in Philadelphia stands as one of the most compelling and inspiring destinations for anyone interested in the American story. Located just steps from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, the Center is more than a museum; it’s a vibrant hub of history, education and civic dialogue that brings the U.S. Constitution to life for visitors of all ages. Below are some of the most memorable artifacts and experiences you can explore in our exhibits.
1.)Civil War and Reconstruction: The Battle for Freedom and Equality
Students can learn about the story and significance of the new flag Abraham Lincoln raised at Independence Hall on February 22, 1821, when he stopped in Philadelphia while traveling to his inauguration. Listen to recordings of formerly enslaved people recorded during the Great Depression by the Works Progress Administration to preserve their life stories. Gain insight into the experiences and hardships African Americans faced before and after emancipation, such as Laura Smalley’s account of her liberation on June 19, 1865.
2.)The 19th Amendment: How Women Won the Vote
2.)The 19th Amendment: How Women Won the VoteDecades before the 19th Amendment passed, American women fought for the right to vote. Groups can inspect ballot boxes from the period, discover where and when suffragists waged these battles, and learn about their victories.
Step into March 3, 1913, and join the women who marched in the Woman Suffrage Procession in Washington, D.C., demanding the right to vote. Try on sashes, carry pro-suffrage banners, and take your photo as part of the procession. Students can also explore an interactive map showing when states extended women’s voting rights.
3.)Signer’s Hall
Snap a selfie with iconic signers of the Constitution, such as George Washington, Benjamin Franklin and Alexander Hamilton, then join the delegates and sign the Constitution – or respectfully abstain, like the three dissenters (Elbridge Gerry, George Mason, and Edmund Randolph) who objected to the proposal. Students can walk among 42 life-size bronze statues representing delegates and are encouraged to consider the disagreements, compromises and decisions behind America’s founding document.
4.)Governing the Nation
Groups can explore legislative, executive and judicial branches of government through immersive displays. See the wheelchair Justin Dart Jr. used on the day the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law. Dart organized and petitioned for the ADA’s passage and sat beside President George H.W. Bush as he signed it on July 26, 1990, continuing the ongoing pursuit of equal rights.
5.)America’s Founding
Step into revolutionary-era America and glimpse one of the rarest printings of the United States Constitution. Printed in 1787 by John Dunlap and David Claypoole, this is one of only 14 official copies of the nation’s governing document known to exist. Interactive experiences invite learners to debate Federalist and Anti-Federalist arguments as the Constitution was shaped, and consider whether they would have supported independence.
6.)The First Amendment
6.)The First AmendmentDiscover the story of the famous armband behind the landmark student free speech case, Tinker v. Des Moines. The case began when Mary Beth Tinker and other students wore black armbands to school as a silent protest against the Vietnam War and were suspended for doing so. In 1969, the Supreme Court ruled that neither students nor teachers “shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.” Through historical artifacts and interactive challenges, students can explore all five First Amendment freedoms—religion, speech, assembly, press and petition.
7.)Kenneth Griffin Great Hall Overlook
Look up and find your state’s flag or choose a new favorite design on the Overlook, where colorful flags representing the 56 states and territories of the United States are displayed. The Center’s Fun with Flags Challenge offers students opportunities to uncover the stories behind the flags and details about American identity, history and geography.
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