Christ Church
The basics
Christ Church is revered both as an important historical landmark in Philadelphia and as a pioneering piece of architecture. The building that stands today debuted in 1754 and is renowned for its soaring white steeple (once the tallest building in the country), its well-preserved Georgian architecture, and its accompanying Burial Ground, where numerous Founding Fathers and signers of the Constitution are buried. Today, the National Historic Landmark is both a popular tourist attraction and a functioning Episcopalian parish.
Christ Church is a stop on numerous hop-on hop-off bus tours, history-themed itineraries, walking tours through Old City, and more. Given its proximity to other major historical landmarks, it’s also easy to visit independently.
Things to know before you go
- Be sure to carry some extra pennies in your pocket: leaving coins on Benjamin Franklin’s grave is a popular Philadelphia tradition.
- Venture inside to admire the church’s calm interior, as well as the baptismal font where William Penn (who founded the colony of Pennsylvania) was christened.
- Guided tours of the landmark are available, and can be requested in advance.
- There are small, separate admission fees for the church and its cemetery.
How to get there
Christ Church is located at 2nd and Church Streets in Old City, while the Burial Ground is located several blocks away, at 5th and Arch Streets. Both can be reached via numerous bus lines and via the underground Market-Frankford Line, which stops at 2nd Street and 5th Street Independence Hall. You can also reach both on foot, by bike, or by car or taxi.
Trip ideas
When to get there
Christ Church is open to visitors during typical daytime hours every day except Monday and Tuesday (in winter); its Burial Ground is also closed in January and February. If visiting during the church services on Sunday mornings or Wednesday afternoon, be sure to be quiet and respectful of worshippers.
Attractions Near Christ Church
Christ Church is conveniently located near many of Old City’s top tourist destinations. Combine your visit with a trip to other noteworthy landmarks, including Elfreth’s Alley (the oldest residential street in America), the National Constitution Center, Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Betsy Ross House, and much more.
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