Christ Church Burial Ground
Step back in time at Christ Church Burial Ground, the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin and other American patriots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful stroll
Christ Church Burial Ground
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful stroll
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Christ Church Burial Ground, the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin and other American patriots.
"A walk through history, connecting with the figures who shaped America."
🎯 Follow Your Map Closely
The burial ground is a few blocks from Christ Church. Don't get lost! :world_map:
💰 Descendant Perks
Direct descendants might get free entry. Check ahead! :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Benjamin Franklin's Grave
Main section
See where the iconic Founding Father and his wife Deborah are laid to rest. A must-see for history buffs!
Signers of the Declaration of Independence
Various locations
Pay respects to multiple signers, including Benjamin Rush, a testament to their revolutionary contributions.
Revolutionary War & War of 1812 Veterans
Various locations
Honor those who served in pivotal American conflicts, a solemn reminder of the nation's founding.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating to Franklin's Final Resting Place
Understanding Entry Fees & Descendant Perks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Follow Your Map Closely
The burial ground is a few blocks from Christ Church. Don't get lost! :world_map:
💰 Descendant Perks
Direct descendants might get free entry. Check ahead! :ticket:
🪙 Penny Tradition
Toss a penny on Ben Franklin's grave for good luck and to support upkeep. :moneybag:
🚶♀️ History Walk
Combine with other Old City sites for a comprehensive historical tour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Follow Your Map Closely
The burial ground is a few blocks from Christ Church. Don't get lost! :world_map:
💰 Descendant Perks
Direct descendants might get free entry. Check ahead! :ticket:
🪙 Penny Tradition
Toss a penny on Ben Franklin's grave for good luck and to support upkeep. :moneybag:
🚶♀️ History Walk
Combine with other Old City sites for a comprehensive historical tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Christ Church Burial Ground for its rich history and the opportunity to connect with America's Founding Fathers, especially Benjamin Franklin. The penny-tossing tradition is a unique highlight. Some note the need for clear directions to find the correct location and mention admission fees.
"A historic cemetery that is home to several US patriots including Ben Franklin. Strolling the grounds is a walk through history. Despite the name, the burial grounds is a few blocks from Christ Church so pay attention to your directions when locating or you'll wind up a few blocks away."
JD
"I really enjoyed all the history of Philadelphia.
Next time we visit im going inside this cemetery, I would've if we had more time."
Shannon Bomboy
"Benjamin Franklin's grave is a must-visit historical site located in the Christ Church Burial Ground in Philadelphia, just a short walk from the Independence Visitor Center. Franklin, one of the most prominent Founding Fathers and a true polymath, is interred alongside his wife, Deborah, in this historic cemetery. Visitors can easily spot his grave, marked by a simple, flat marble stone engraved with “Benjamin and Deborah Franklin.”
Tradition has it that people toss pennies onto his grave, inspired by Franklin's famous quote, “A penny saved is a penny earned,” as a tribute to his legacy. The coins, which help fund the cemetery’s upkeep, glimmer atop the marker—a testament to Franklin's enduring influence.
Christ Church Burial Ground itself is a beautiful, serene spot steeped in history, holding the graves of many other prominent figures from the Revolutionary era. A visit here offers a quiet moment of reflection and a chance to connect with America's rich past."
Marisa Balletti-Lavoie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The burial ground is located a few blocks from Christ Church itself. It's easily accessible on foot from the Independence Visitor Center. Many visitors combine their visit with other historic sites in Old City Philadelphia.
Yes, it's a short walk from Independence Hall and other key historical landmarks in Philadelphia's Old City.
Benjamin Franklin's grave is a prominent feature and usually easy to spot. Look for the flat marble stone marked 'Benjamin and Deborah Franklin'.
Philadelphia's Old City is well-served by public transport. SEPTA buses and trolleys stop nearby, making it convenient to reach the area. Check SEPTA's website for routes and schedules.
Street parking can be challenging in Old City. Several parking garages are available nearby, offering paid parking for visitors. Consider using a parking app to find the closest and most affordable options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an admission fee for most visitors. However, direct descendants of those buried in the ground may receive free entry.
Admission fees can vary. It's best to check the official Christ Church website for the most current pricing information before your visit.
The burial ground is typically open daily from 11 am to 5 pm, but hours can change seasonally. Always verify the current operating hours on their official website.
Generally, there's a fee to enter. However, tradition dictates tossing a penny onto his grave, which helps fund the cemetery's upkeep.
Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the history and notable figures buried there. Tour guides can share fascinating stories, like the origin of the penny tradition.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find 30 to 60 minutes sufficient to explore the grounds, appreciate the history, and visit key graves.
Besides Benjamin Franklin, the burial ground is the final resting place for five signers of the Declaration of Independence, including Benjamin Rush, and veterans of the Revolutionary War and War of 1812.
Yes, it's a long-standing tradition inspired by Franklin's quote, 'A penny saved is a penny earned.' The coins contribute to the cemetery's maintenance.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use. However, always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site and other visitors.
The grounds are mostly flat, but pathways can be uneven due to age. Visitors with mobility concerns should proceed with caution.
📸 📸 Photography
The area around Benjamin Franklin's grave, with the pennies, is very popular. Also, look for interesting old headstones and the overall serene atmosphere of the grounds.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in historic cemeteries and urban areas due to privacy and safety regulations. Check with the site management for specific rules.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the atmospheric quality of the historic cemetery.
While personal photography is usually allowed, avoid intrusive flash photography, especially near any ongoing services or events. Always be respectful.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial. A wide-angle lens can capture the expanse of the grounds, while a prime lens can focus on intricate details of the headstones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The tradition of tossing pennies onto Franklin's grave is often a hit with younger visitors, making history interactive and memorable. Keep the visit engaging by turning it into a scavenger hunt for specific names or dates on headstones. Consider combining it with other nearby historical sites like the Liberty Bell or Independence Hall for a full day of discovery in Old City Philadelphia. Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes and water, especially during warmer months.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts & Patriots
Consider booking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the lives and contributions of the notable figures buried here. The stories shared by knowledgeable guides can truly bring the history of Philadelphia and the birth of the United States to life.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers
The serene atmosphere offers a moment of quiet reflection amidst the bustling city.Use your phone to research the notable figures buried here before or during your visit. This will enhance your experience and help you appreciate the historical significance of each grave.
The proximity to other attractions like the Betsy Ross House and Independence Hall makes it an efficient addition to your exploration of Philadelphia's rich past. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Benjamin Franklin
Franklin was a true polymath – a writer, inventor, scientist, diplomat, and statesman. His contributions to the United States are immeasurable, from helping draft the Declaration of Independence to negotiating the Treaty of Paris. Visiting his grave offers a tangible connection to this pivotal figure in American history and a moment for reflection on his enduring impact.
The cemetery itself holds a significant place in Philadelphia's history, serving as a resting ground for many prominent citizens of the colonial and revolutionary eras. The simple, flat marble stone marking Franklin's grave stands in contrast to the elaborate monuments of some other figures, reflecting a certain humility often associated with his persona.
More Than Just Franklin: Revolutionary Figures
Beyond the Declaration's signers, the grounds also honor veterans of the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812, such as Commodore William Bainbridge.
Exploring the burial ground is akin to walking through a living history book. Each headstone tells a story, from prominent politicians and military heroes to influential figures in medicine and society. It’s a place for quiet contemplation and a powerful reminder of the collective efforts that forged the United States.
The Penny Tradition: A Symbol of Legacy
These collected pennies are not just symbolic; they play a crucial role in the upkeep and preservation of the cemetery. The funds generated help maintain the historic grounds, protect the aging headstones, and ensure that this significant historical site can be enjoyed by future generations. It’s a beautiful example of how visitors can directly contribute to the site's preservation while engaging in a meaningful ritual.
Seeing the glimmering coins atop Franklin's grave is a visual testament to his lasting influence and the continued respect he commands. It transforms a simple grave marker into a dynamic display of ongoing appreciation and a reminder of the practical wisdom Franklin imparted.
Social
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