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Sightseeing

Second Bank of the United States

📍 Philadelphia · USA
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3.5/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Quick Facts

Location
USA, Philadelphia
Category
Sightseeing
Duration
Recommended 45-60 minutes
Coordinates
40.7068, -77.0233

Introduction

The Second Bank of the United States, built 1819-1824 by architect William Strickland in Greek Revival style, is one of America's finest neoclassical buildings. This former federal central bank features a facade of eight magnificent Doric columns of Pennsylvania marble, resembling an Athenian temple transplanted to Philadelphia. The bank closed in 1836 when its charter expired, later serving as a customs house and exchange. Now part of Independence National Historical Park, it houses the permanent exhibition "Portraits of the People: A Gallery of Founders" with over 200 oil portraits including Washington, Jefferson and Franklin by masters like Charles Willson Peale, making it an essential destination for understanding America's founding era.

✨ Highlights

1
Doric Portico
Eight marble columns forming a stunning Greek temple facade
2
Founders Portraits
Over 200 oil portraits of Washington, Jefferson and more
3
Peale Gallery
Charles Willson Peale's Revolutionary era figure portraits
4
Bank History
Learn early US financial system and central bank debates
5
Neoclassical Icon
Strickland's benchmark Greek Revival building in America

🛈 Practical Info

→Transit:SEPTA 5th Street Station, 3-minute walk
→Cost:Completely free, no reservation needed
→Visit:Security screening; large backpacks not permitted
→Nearby:Adjacent to Independence Hall and Liberty Bell
→Transportation:Independence National Historical Park, 420 Chestnut St; SEPTA to 5th Street, 3-min walk

Opening Hours

Opening Hours
Wednesday09:00-17:00
Thursday09:00-17:00
Friday09:00-17:00
Saturday09:00-17:00
Sunday09:00-17:00

Wed-Sun 9:00-17:00; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day

Ticket Information

Ticket Information
AdultFree

Free admission, no ticket required

💡 Tips

• Combine with Independence Hall and Liberty Bell for full history experience
• Rent audio guide to deeply understand each portrait in the gallery
• Morning light is best for photographing the exterior facade
• Open Wed-Sun only; note Mon-Tue closure to avoid disappointment

FAQ

What are the opening hours of Second Bank of the United States?

Wednesday: 09:00-17:00; Thursday: 09:00-17:00; Friday: 09:00-17:00; Saturday: 09:00-17:00; Sunday: 09:00-17:00; Wed-Sun 9:00-17:00; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day

How much is the admission for Second Bank of the United States?

Adult: Free; Free admission, no ticket required

Any practical tips for visiting Second Bank of the United States?

Combine with Independence Hall and Liberty Bell for full history experience Rent audio guide to deeply understand each portrait in the gallery

How long should I spend at Second Bank of the United States?

A typical visit takes Recommended 45-60 minutes.

As a federal facility, security procedures and hours may change; check official park notices