Travel planners are very accustomed to visiting iconic sites such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and Valley Forge when they head to the Philadelphia area. The U.S. National Park Service manages three other sites in the City of Brotherly Love that offer perspectives on other aspects of the area’s rich history.
Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site
The writings of Edgar Allan Poe have fascinated readers for generations. At this national historic site, travelers can see the house where the author lived for six happy and productive years. Docent-led and self-guided tours of the home are available year-round, and guests also should save time to visit the reading room.
Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial
The house museum pays tribute to Polish freedom fighter Thaddeus Kosciuszko, a brilliant military engineer who designed fortifications that helped the Colonists during the American Revolution. NOTE: The site has a very limited operating season—April to October (weekends only).
Gloria Dei Church National Historic Site
Gloria Dei Church, which was built from 1698 to 1700 by Swedish settlers, is the oldest church in Pennsylvania. The main sites are the simple Colonial sanctuary, where the Lutheran congregation worshipped, and the grounds that feature a cemetery. Guests also can attend a service at Gloria Dei, which became an Episcopal church in 1845.
Top photo: Gloria Dei Church National Historic Site
Photo by National Park Service
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