We had a decent long wait for our car to get out of the garage. I think its was because of some construction on the front of our building limited the space a car could pull up. But soon enough, we were loaded up and on our way.
Because of the previous concern with my battery charge, the parking lot attendant had it charged to 100% so we could head right out of the city. Tyler decided to drive us today so he too could brag about his driving prowess.
We were on the road only for about 2 hours. Because it was only lunchtime and our hotel room wasn't available, we decided to go right to the Independence Hall area and enjoy some of the area's history before checking in.
We saw the Liberty Bell.
We took a tour of Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed and where are forefathers met to debate and discuss how our government should be run. It was pretty cool to be in the very place George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton and Ben Franklin (among others) stood and worked out the details of our independence.
Then we took a break and had lunch. Tyler found a quiet spot to rest his feet while waiting for us girls.
Then we went to the US Mint. Unfortunately, because of security we weren't allowed to take photos but it was incredible. We all enjoyed it! This Mint is different from the one in DC which Tyler has visited. The U.S. Mint in Philadelphia, established in 1792, is the original and largest mint facility in the United States, responsible for producing circulating coins, coin and medal dies, and engraving designs. It houses the engraving department and is the only mint with a public tour where visitors can see coin production in action, looking out over the factory floor as they walk the length of the building. Unlike other mints such as Denver or San Francisco, Philadelphia produces the majority of coin dies and test coins used across all facilities. Coins minted in Philadelphia typically bear a “P” mint mark—except for the penny, which usually has none.
After we wrapped up at the Independence National Historic Park, we headed up a few blocks to our hotel and got settled in.
Then we headed across the street to Reading Terminal Market which is a historic indoor market featuring over 80 diverse vendors offering fresh produce, meats, baked goods, international cuisine, and Pennsylvania Dutch specialties. It’s a bustling hub for locals and tourists alike to experience the city’s culinary culture. Honestly, I would LOVE to have one near home for my shopping. But for today we used it as a glorified food court and got supper.
Tyler had to work tonight and I had to send out a prayer guide for church, so we settled in for the night.
Over dinner we decided to change our plans for the remainder of our trip and add in Washington DC. So, I worked to get our hotel and tour reservations made. We are excited to continue the trip!
