Independence Living History Center

The Independence Living History Center contains an active archaeology lab devoted almost entirely to discovering and examining artifacts excavated on the site of the National Constitution Center [1]. Large windows allow visitors to watch scientists work on thousands of artifacts that continue to reveal fascinating details about Philadelphia’s [2] early history.

It is operated by Independence National Historical Park [3] and Once Upon a Nation, a nonprofit that operates tours and programming in historic Philadelphia, many of which take place or depart from here.

One of these programs is 1776: The Movie-Musical, which plays every Friday in summer at 7 p.m. ($12 adult, $8 children 8–12, $10 senior, student, and military). The three-hour interactive event, with sing-alongs and props, is educational and enjoyable for the whole family, but is particularly a big hit with children under 12. Tickets can be purchased at the gift shop in the lobby.