Milepost 4,955 (Exton/Philadelphia)

We're about to conclude our visit to the Philadelphia area.  Yesterday, we drove to downtown Philadelphia to see some of the great historical sites there, especially Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

We weren't entirely sure we'd be able to get into Independence Hall.  We didn't know -- and consider this a tip if you ever plan to visit there -- that you're supposed to get your tickets for Independence Hall in advance.  Fortunately, they had some left-over tickets that were handed out first thing in the morning. 

It was amazing to be in the actual room where the nation's founders wrote the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.  That's the room on the left.  The photo includes our tour guide, who was the best tour guide we've had of any of the places we've visited.  I believe his name was Tom, and he made our visit much more meaningful.

Of course, you also have to see the Liberty Bell.  Here's something neither of us knew -- the bell got its name from abolitionists in 1830, long after the revolutionary war was over.  Before that, it was just the Pennsylvania Statehouse Bell. 

Our plan today was to see the Brandywine Battle Historical Site.  Unfortunately, it was closed.  So we did a little shopping and a lot of loafing.  Which, actually, was just fine.

Tomorrow morning, we drive to Annapolis Baltimore.