National Constitution Center on Independence Mall

(photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

I stopped by the National Constitution Center to see if it may be a worthwhile attraction. However the center has an admission of $14.50 and the staff at the ticket desk said that I should allow two hours to visit. I had less than an hour to spare before my timed entry to Independence Hall so I opted to skip a visit to the center. The price of admission is likely why this attraction had no line unlike its neighbors the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall.

The center which opened in 2003 is a stunning piece of modern architecture along the Independence Mall. Seen from a distance and etched into the facade is the preamble from the U.S. Bill of Rights. By the way avoid the gift shop if you don't like being hounded by salespeople who act like you're planning to shoplift.

Visit constitutioncenter.org for more info. Hours: Mon-Fri 9:30am-5pm; Sat 9:30am-6pm; Sun 12pm-5pm. Admission: Adults $14.50; Seniors (65+) $13; Students (with ID) $13; Children (ages 4-12) $8. Active military with ID and children under three are admitted for free. Tickets also available online.