Top Monuments in Pennsylvania

Bring a good pair of walking shoes. The trails are gorgeous, but I totally regretted wearing flip flops! You'll want to explore beyond the monument.

If you can, visit early in the morning, around 7 AM. The morning light is beautiful for photos and there are fewer crowds – I totally loved the peace before it got busy!

Check the weather before you go. I got caught in a sudden rainstorm, and it wasn't fun! Dress in layers just in case – it can change quickly!

I think parking can get pricey, so my advice is to use the shuttle service offered by the park. It's affordable and saves you the hassle of finding a spot!

Check out the surrounding area too! Independence Hall is right next door, and there’s so much history. I suggest planning at least a couple of hours to explore this entire area

Make sure your camera is charged! The bell and the whole park are super photogenic. I regretted not having my camera ready for some incredible shots with the backdrop of Independence Hall.

Grab a quick breakfast at one of the nearby cafes before you go. You can even pack a little snack and enjoy it while you take in the views. It’ll save you time and give you more energy!

If you can, go on a weekday morning right when it opens at 9 AM. It gets pretty crowded later, and you'll get great photos without throngs of people. I really enjoyed the peace before the rush.