Philadelphia Pennsylvania is a city proud of its heritage as the birthplace of American democracy. Philly was the cradle of liberty (the Declaration of Independence was written, signed and first publicly read here in 1776, as was the US Constitution ten years later), and has been a major economic center for centuries. Early History of Philadelphia: The original capital of the United States, Philadelphia, was laid out by William Penn Jr in 1682 on a grid system that was to provide the pattern for most American cities. It was envisaged as a "greene countrie towne", and it still manages to retain a certain quaintness. In addition to world class Philadelphia hotels and restaurants, you will find shady cobbled alleys lined with red-brick colonial houses, while the peace and quiet of huge Fairmount Park make it easy to forget you're in the 6th largest city in America. Notable Philadelphia attractions include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Philadelphia Zoo, the Franklin Mint, Washington Square, the Please Touch Museum and the Edgar Allen Poe National Historic Site. Professional Philadelphia sports teams include the 76ers (Basketball), Flyers (Hockey), Eagles (Football) and Phillies (Baseball).