Philadelphia is known as the birthplace of American independence, but it’s also where the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps were born.

As the city prepares to host the 250th anniversary celebration of both branches this October and November, visitors don’t have to wait for the official celebrations to dive into the deep Navy and Marine Corps history that lives on in its streets, squares, and museums that you can easily walk to!

Independence Hall & Congress Hall

Start at Independence Hall (520 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA), the site where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were signed, but also where the Continental Congress authorized the creation of the Continental Navy and Marine Corps in 1775. Next door, Congress Hall (600 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA) holds historical weight of its own: it’s where both branches were officially re-established in the 1790s after the American Revolution.

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The Commodore John Barry Statue & Historic Old St. Mary’s

Just outside Independence Hall, you’ll find the statue of Commodore John Barry, often called the “Father of the U.S. Navy”(111 S Independence Mall W, Philadelphia, PA 19106). Pay your respects to his leadership and legacy before heading to the historic Old St. Mary’s Church (252 South 4th St., Philadelphia, PA), where Barry is buried. The church and its cemetery are open to visitors.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution, Philadelphia

Washington Square & the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

A short walk from Independence Mall, Washington Square is home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution (217-231 W Washington Square, Philadelphia, PA). This solemn and beautifully maintained park honors the sacrifices of Revolutionary War soldiers, including early Marines and naval servicemen who fought.

The Tun Tavern

Philadelphia’s historic waterfront is where the legendary Tun Tavern (South Front Street between Chestnut and Walnut Streets, Philadelphia, PA.) once stood. The tavern is widely recognized as the birthplace of the U.S. Marine Corps. While the original structure is long gone, the Tun Legacy Foundation is working to reconstruct The Tun® just a few blocks from its original location in Old City.

The Navy Yard

Once the first and most important Navy installation in the country, Philadelphia’s Navy Yard (4500 S Broad St., Philadelphia, PA) is now a revitalized business and innovation district—but it retains deep ties to its military past. During both World Wars, the yard constructed and repaired countless ships for the U.S. Navy.

Independence Seaport Museum

Located on the Delaware River, the Independence Seaport Museum (211 S Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA) houses exhibits that bring Philadelphia’s naval history to life. From model ships and 19th-century naval artifacts to the cruiser Olympia and the submarine Becuna, both docked outside and open for tours, the museum offers a hands-on experience that connects past and present.

Battleship New Jersey

Just across the river in Camden, the Battleship New Jersey (100 Clinton St., Camden, NJ) is a must-visit for naval enthusiasts. As America’s most decorated battleship, it now serves as a floating museum, offering interactive tours, exhibits on shipbuilding along the Delaware River, and a firsthand look at life aboard a Navy vessel.

Philadelphia offers countless opportunities to walk in the footsteps of the sailors and Marines who helped shape the nation. These living landmarks are more than historic—they’re reminders that America’s maritime legacy began right here.

Learn more about the Navy and Marine Corps