Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial
- Home
- National Sites
- Pennsylvania
- Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial
In most of America, Thaddeus Kosciuszko's name is not only hard to pronounce, but it is also unfamiliar. Kosciuszko came to America late in 1776 to help create an enduring nation because of his recognition that freedom is a fundamental human right. He is considered a genius in constructing fortifications and was instrumental in bringing the British forces under General John Burgoyne to a complete halt at Saratoga, leading to the destruction of the British Army. Kosciuszko also designed and constructed the defenses at West Point, which effectively cut the British fleet off from rampaging up and down the Hudson River. After the American Revolution, he returned to Poland to seek its independence from Czarist Russia but was wounded and returned to America to recuperate in the building that is his memorial. The Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial in Philadelphia is an honorarium for his contributions to the American Revolution.
Things To Do Near Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial
Though the Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial is only 0.2 acres in size, it packs a considerable amount of information about what it was like to be a patriot during the American Revolution. The memorial is the house Kosciuszko stayed in to recuperate from his wounds received during the conflict for the independence of Poland. Here, he was visited by such luminaries as Thomas Jefferson and Chief Little Turtle of the Miami people. At this reconstructed building, you enter Kosciuszko's quarters as it was in 1797-98 and discover documents telling the story of his contribution to the Revolution. Walk up the stairs to view a video of Kosciuszko's life as a patriot and revolutionary, not only in America but also in Europe.
Hiking Trails
-
Wissahickon Creek Gorge Loop Trail
Within an hour's drive of downtown Philadelphia is the Wissahickon Creek Gorge Loop Trail. After experiencing the hustle and bustle of Philadelphia, hiking this trail takes you back to nature. Along the path that winds with the creek, you find waterfalls and pools of clear water hidden beneath a thick canopy of trees.
Location
Wissahickon Park at the end of Forbidden Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19128
Length
9.4 miles
Intensity
Intermediate
-
Schuylkill River Trail: Philadelphia to Valley Forge
Only residents of the area realize how close the British forces in Philadelphia and the American Continental forces in Valley Forge, PA, sat during the winter of 1777-78. When you hike this trail, the realization of the short distance between the opponents and the possibility of disaster for the American forces sinks in. The path is paved the entire length and has a slight grade here and there, making the hike an easy one that is ADA accessible.
Location
City Center Philadelphia on the north side of the Schuylkill River
Length
24.6 miles
Intensity
Easy to Intermediate
Sightseeing
-
Independence Hall
Independence Hall is the site of many beginnings. In 1776, it housed the Second Continental Congress, which created the Declaration of Independence. Eleven years later, the hall saw the deliberations and writing that brought about the United States Constitution. Today, it stands as a National Historical Park and is open to visitors throughout the year.
Location
Chestnut Street between 5th and 6th Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19106
-
One Liberty Observation Deck
Get a view of Philadelphia from 57 floors up at the One Liberty Observation Deck. Located in Philadelphia's center, this observation deck offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city's skyline. Visitors learn about Philadelphia's rich history via interactive touchscreens that augment the incredible view.
Location
1560 Market Street, Suite 5700, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Museums
-
Museum of the American Revolution
The Museum of the American Revolution brings to life the past through interactive media. You experience the forces that created the revolt and helped to rip down the statue of King George III. Then, you feel the fear of battle for an uncertain future that promised freedom.
Location
101 S 3rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
-
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Visit the cultural heart of Philadelphia at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Here, you find famous art pieces from around the world, including Van Gogh's Sunflowers. The museum celebrates new artists worldwide with displays that revolve from one artist to the next.
Location
2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
-
Sweet Magnolia
Sweet Magnolia is one of the more unique gift shops in the Philadelphia area. Their varied choices include such items as candles, tote bags, jewelry, and coffee mugs. The shop fosters local artists with displays of their work.
Location
117 S Easton Road, Glenside, PA 19038
-
The Random Tea Room and Curiosity Shop
The Random Tea Room and Curiosity Shop offers a unique mix of soothing teas and gifts for friends and family. This shop opened intending to introduce the concept of health through relaxation. Visitors who enter this shop immediately notice the fragrant aromas of teas infused with spices and herbs.
Location
713 North 4th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123
-
Ristorante Pesto
One of the finest Italian restaurants in Philadelphia, Ristorante Pesto presents meals constructed from the freshest products available. Just as in the old country restaurants in Italy, these chefs use spices that bring tears of joy to Italian connoisseurs. Try their stuffed steak for a meal you will talk about for the rest of your life.
Location
1915 S Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148
-
The Original Turkey
The Original Turkey is a one-of-a-kind restaurant that specializes in the preparation and presentation of turkey. Everything about their meals is focused on turkey, potatoes, and cranberry sauce. Look for the turkey breasts rubbed in unique spices for a delicious meal.
Location
45 N 12th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
How To Get To Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial
To get to the Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Monument from the site of the Continental Army's first victory in Trenton, NJ, get onto United States Highway 1 South (US-1 S) and drive for 7.13 miles. Then, merge onto Interstate 295 West (I-295 W) and go for 5.33 Miles. Stay straight as the road becomes Interstate 95 South (I-95 S) and travel another 17.82 miles to Exit 22. At Exit 22, turn right and follow the signs to Independence Hall. You can park anywhere near Independence Hall, as the Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial is a short walk away.
The Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial is open year-round. Parking is sometimes difficult. The recommendation is to park and walk from one of the many parking garages around Independence Hall.
Address
301 Pine Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Fee: Entry fee $0
The Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial is a small part of the Philadelphia experience. Its importance lies in the commemoration of a man who came to America to support the freedom of others. Once you see this memorial, you realize the importance of the efforts of each person to build, maintain, and keep a free society. You and your family will take these memories home with you and find inspiration in them for those trying times that always come later. To get the most of your trip to the memorial, rent an RV from RVshare and enjoy all the comforts of home on the road.


