Declaration House (Graff House)
Stand where Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence at this historic Philadelphia recreation, now featuring powerful contemporary art...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Art exhibit has a welcoming station.
Declaration House (Graff House)
Best Time
Art exhibit has a welcoming station.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stand where Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence at this historic Philadelphia recreation, now featuring powerful contemporary art.
"Still a great place to check out even if it’s not open! A lot of information is available outside of the building."
🎟️ Book Timed Tickets
Essential for interior tours! Plan ahead to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Explore Outside
Even if closed, the exterior offers historical info and a powerful sense of place.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Declaration House Exterior
700 Market Street, Philadelphia
Stand where history was made! This recreation of Thomas Jefferson's 1776 residence offers a tangible connection to the drafting of the Declaration of Independence.
'The Descendants of Monticello' Installation
Declaration House grounds
Experience Sonya Clark's thought-provoking art, featuring giant blinking eyes symbolizing the overlooked perspectives of enslaved individuals like Robert Hemmings.
Proximity to Independence Hall
Independence National Historical Park
Located within walking distance of other key Revolutionary War sites, making it a perfect stop on a historical walking tour of Philadelphia.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Declaration House
Understanding the Art Installation
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Timed Tickets
Essential for interior tours! Plan ahead to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Explore Outside
Even if closed, the exterior offers historical info and a powerful sense of place.
🖼️ Appreciate the Art
The temporary art installation adds a vital, modern perspective to the historical site.
📍 Walkable History
Easily combined with visits to Independence Hall and other historic sites.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Timed Tickets
Essential for interior tours! Plan ahead to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Explore Outside
Even if closed, the exterior offers historical info and a powerful sense of place.
🖼️ Appreciate the Art
The temporary art installation adds a vital, modern perspective to the historical site.
📍 Walkable History
Easily combined with visits to Independence Hall and other historic sites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Declaration House a historically significant site, offering a tangible connection to the drafting of the Declaration of Independence. Many appreciate the exterior information and the powerful contemporary art installation. However, some have experienced issues with inconsistent hours and the need for timed tickets for interior access.
"Very cool! The site of where the Declaration of Independence was adapted! So much history is from the birth of our nation located right here. I unfortunately visited here on a weekday evening so I wasn’t able to take the tour inside. Still a great place to check out even if it’s not open! A lot of information is available outside of the building. Many other historical sites are within walking distance as well!"
Kylie Mangini
"Unfortunately, this building has been closed for a while, but hopefully they will reopen again soon. Either way, you can’t help but get chills as you walk by here and understand the importance of building had on shaping our entire country."
Gourmand
"You need to plan your trip ahead of time. You need to get timed tickets in order to see the declaration of independence. You can still see a lot of history but getting the tickets is a must"
Doug Ainsworth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Declaration House is located at 700 Market Street in Philadelphia, easily accessible by public transportation. Many visitors find it convenient to walk from other historical sites in Independence National Historical Park.
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the Declaration House, several parking garages are available in the surrounding Market Street area. Consider public transport or ride-sharing for ease.
Absolutely! The Declaration House is a key stop within Independence National Historical Park and is within walking distance of Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and other significant landmarks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, timed tickets are often required for interior tours of the Declaration House. It's highly recommended to plan your visit and book tickets in advance to ensure entry.
Operating hours can vary, and it's important to check the official National Park Service website or local listings before your visit, as some visitors have noted discrepancies.
While the exterior is always accessible, there may be a fee or a timed ticket requirement for interior tours. Check the official NPS website for the most current information on admission.
Even if the interior is closed, you can still learn a lot from the exterior exhibits and the historical context of the site. Many visitors find it impactful to stand outside where the Declaration was written.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Declaration House is a recreation of the Philadelphia home where Thomas Jefferson lived and drafted the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It's a pivotal site in American history.
This temporary installation by Sonya Clark uses large, blinking eyes to represent the overlooked experiences of Robert Hemmings, an enslaved youth who served Jefferson during the Declaration's drafting.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with the site staff upon arrival or look for posted signage regarding photography rules inside the historic building.
Information on accessibility for the Declaration House should be available on the National Park Service website. It's advisable to check for specific details regarding ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While interior tours might be more suited for older children who can appreciate the historical context, the exterior and the art provide visual interest for all ages. Consider making it part of a larger historical outing in Independence National Historical Park. The proximity to other sites like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell means you can tailor the day to your children's stamina and interests. Focus on the visual elements of the art installation and the idea of standing where a very important document was written to make it relatable.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the opportunity to engage with 'The Descendants of Monticello' by Sonya Clark. This contemporary art installation adds a critical layer of interpretation, challenging visitors to confront the complexities of the era, particularly the paradox of slavery alongside the ideals of freedom.
+1 Combine your visit with other sites in Independence National Historical Park for a comprehensive immersion into the Revolutionary War period.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Graff House
It's crucial to understand that this is a recreation, not the original building. However, the NPS has done an admirable job of capturing the essence of the period. The house provides a tangible link to the past, offering a glimpse into the living conditions and environment of a key historical figure during a pivotal moment. The surrounding area is rich with other historical sites, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in American history.
Beyond its direct connection to Jefferson, the Declaration House also serves as a platform for contemporary dialogue. The current art installation, 'The Descendants of Monticello,' by Sonya Clark, adds a vital layer of interpretation, highlighting the often-unseen narratives of those, like the enslaved Robert Hemmings, who were present but not participants in the founding.
+1Experiencing 'The Descendants of Monticello'
+1Clark's installation features large, blinking eyes, symbolizing the watchful presence and overlooked experiences of individuals like Hemmings. These 'eyes' serve as a potent reminder of what Jefferson and the other Founding Fathers 'refused to see' – the inherent contradiction of declaring liberty while upholding slavery. The artwork prompts visitors to consider the complex and often uncomfortable truths woven into the fabric of American history.
+1During weekends, a welcoming station hosted by Monument Lab provides further context and opportunities to learn more about the exhibit and its historical underpinnings. This collaborative approach ensures that visitors can engage with the art and history on multiple levels, fostering a deeper understanding of the site's multifaceted past and present.
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