6th Street in Philadelphia with storefronts and pedestrians

Congress Hall

Congress Hall Philadelphia: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Located at the historic corner of 6th and Chestnut Streets in Philadelphia, Congress Hall stands as a landmark of early American democracy. Once the meeting place of the United States Congress from 1790 to 1800, this Georgian-style building bore witness to pivotal moments such as the ratification of the Bill of Rights and the peaceful presidential transition from George Washington to John Adams. Today, Congress Hall is preserved within Independence National Historical Park and offers visitors a chance to walk through the birthplace of foundational American ideals (The Constitutional Walking Tour; Lost New England; History Hit; NPS.gov; Visit Philly).

Horse drawn carriage near Independence Hall in Philadelphia

Soldiers parading down Chestnut Street past Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia

Interior of Congress Hall with three rows of desks and chairs arranged in a semi-circle facing a raised dais

Historic Congress Hall government building in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with American flag flying

Congress Hall historic building in Philadelphia under a blue sky

Center medallion of a large Senate Chamber carpet with an eagle and 13 state seals surrounding it

Congress Hall and New Theatre on Chestnut Street, Philadelphia in 1800

Historic Congress Hall building in Philadelphia from 1904

Hand-colored engraving of Congress Hall and New Theatre on Chestnut Street in Philadelphia

Cartoon drawing of Congress Hall, a red brick Georgian style building with a white cupola

Historical etching of Congressional pugilists boxing in a ring

Black and white photo of the Court House and Public Ledger building

Vintage photochrom postcard by Detroit Photographic Company showing a scenic landscape

Illustration of a 1798 altercation between Representatives Matthew Lyon and Roger Griswold on the House floor with Lyon defending himself with fire tongs against Griswold's cane attack

Illustration of Matthew Lyon and Roger Griswold fighting with cane and fire tongs on the House floor in 1798

1798 illustration of political altercation between Representatives Matthew Lyon and Roger Griswold on the House Floor in Philadelphia, featuring Lyon defending himself with fire tongs against Griswold's cane attack

Detailed map of Independence National Historical Park showcasing landmarks and pathways

Independence Hall in Philadelphia, chromolithograph from 1876

Independence Hall historic building in Philadelphia, 1904

Historic Independence Hall in Philadelphia with clock tower and American flag

Independence Hall and the first block of Independence Mall under construction in 1952

Independence Hall and the old cracked Liberty Bell in Philadelphia

Congress Hall North Facade in Independence National Historical Park Philadelphia

Historic Public Ledger Building in Philadelphia in 1876

Origins and Construction
Role as the United States Capitol (1790–1800)
Landmark Events and Legislative Achievements
Architectural Features and Restoration
Visitor Experience: Hours, Tickets, and Tours
Accessibility and Amenities
Special Events and Nearby Attractions
Visitor Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Plan Your Visit
References

Origins and Construction

Congress Hall was originally built between 1787 and 1789 as the Philadelphia County Courthouse (The Constitutional Walking Tour). Its design exemplifies late Georgian architecture, characterized by symmetry, classical details, and red brickwork with white trim. The building’s straightforward two-story structure was intended to complement nearby Independence Hall. When Philadelphia became the temporary U.S. capital in 1790, the courthouse was swiftly adapted to serve as the meeting place for Congress.

Role as the United States Capitol (1790–1800)

Congress Hall played a central role in the nation’s formative years:

First Floor: Housed the House of Representatives, with space designed to accommodate representatives from a growing number of states.
Second Floor: Served as the Senate chamber, smaller and more ornate, reinforcing the distinction between the two legislative bodies.

During this decade, Congress Hall witnessed the inauguration of two presidents, the adoption of foundational legislation, and the establishment of key national institutions (Lost New England; History Hit).

Landmark Events and Legislative Achievements

Presidential Inaugurations

George Washington’s Second Inauguration (1793): Set a precedent for the peaceful continuation of executive power.
John Adams’ Inauguration (1797): Marked the first peaceful transfer of power between presidents of different political parties (The Constitutional Walking Tour; Lost New England).

Constitutional Amendments and Legislation

Bill of Rights (1791): The first ten amendments were ratified here, securing essential liberties (Lost New England).
Foundational Laws: Legislation passed here established the First Bank of the United States, the U.S. Navy, and the federal postal system—crucial to unifying and stabilizing the new nation (History Hit).

Architectural Features and Restoration

Congress Hall is a fine example of Georgian architecture, featuring:

Exterior: Red brick with white trim, a modest portico, symmetrical window placement, and a simple balustraded roof (ushistory.org; experiencepa.com).
Interior: The first-floor chamber, with tall windows and a high ceiling, hosted the House of Representatives; the second floor, where the Senate met, is more intimate and ornately furnished. Both levels included public galleries, reflecting early America’s commitment to transparency (npplan.com).

After Congress moved to Washington, D.C., Congress Hall served as a courthouse before falling into disrepair. Restoration efforts began in the late 19th century and continue today under the National Park Service, ensuring the building remains a living monument to American democracy (Lost New England; ushistory.org).

Visitor Experience: Hours, Tickets, and Tours

Visiting Hours

Standard Hours: Congress Hall is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Seasonal Variations: Hours may change on holidays or due to special events. Always check the official site before visiting.

Admission and Tickets

Admission: Free entry; no tickets required for Congress Hall.
Tours: Ranger-led tours run throughout the day and last about 20–30 minutes. Self-guided visits are available during the off-season, with rangers on hand to answer questions (Visit Philly; whichmuseum.com).

Accessibility and Amenities

Wheelchair Access: The first floor, including the House chamber, is wheelchair accessible; the Senate chamber on the second floor is accessed only by stairs. Rangers provide visual aids and descriptions for those unable to ascend.
Language Support: Printed materials and guides are available in multiple languages.
Facilities: Restrooms and food services are available at the nearby Independence Visitor Center. Water fountains, a café, and a gift shop are also accessible.
Security: All visitors must pass through security screening. Large bags or prohibited items are not allowed (History Hit).

Special Events and Nearby Attractions

Special Events

Congress Hall hosts reenactments, educational programs, and commemorative events throughout the year. Check the event calendar for details.

Nearby Historical Sites

Independence Hall: Site of the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution.
Liberty Bell Center: Home of the iconic Liberty Bell.
Old City Hall: Former site of the U.S. Supreme Court.
Second Bank of the United States Portrait Gallery
Franklin Court

A typical itinerary includes Congress Hall, Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell Center, and lunch in Old City.

Visitor Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Tips for Your Visit

Best Times: Early mornings and late afternoons are least crowded; weekdays outside of holidays offer a quieter experience.
Photography: Permitted without flash or tripods. Be respectful of other visitors and preservation guidelines.
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and prepare for security screening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need tickets to visit Congress Hall?
No, entry is free and does not require tickets or reservations.

What are the visiting hours?
Generally, daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM; check for seasonal updates.

Is Congress Hall accessible?
The first floor is wheelchair accessible; the second floor is stair-access only.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, ranger-led tours are free and offered throughout the day.

Can I take photos inside?
Yes, photography is allowed without flash or tripods.

Plan Your Visit

Start at the Independence Visitor Center: 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106.
For More Information:
- NPS Congress Hall
- Visit Philly
- Phone: 215-965-2305

Download the Audiala app for guided tours and updates, and follow Independence National Historical Park on social media for news and event information.

References

Congress Hall remains a powerful symbol of the birth of the United States, offering visitors the chance to step into the past and connect with the enduring ideals of American democracy. Whether you are a history buff or a casual traveler, this site promises a meaningful and memorable Philadelphia experience.