The National Constitution Center - View this location on map Philadelphia is where the US Constitution was written and signed, making it a major tourist attraction not just for school parties. The area around Independence Hall, where it was actually signed, is devoted to telling the history of the site and the constitution. Most attention is focused on visiting the Liberty Bell and being guided around the historical buildings, but I enjoyed the museum devoted to the constitution much more. 'Museum' makes it sound dusty and antiquated, but what this is, is a multi-media festival, charting the history of the United States through the constitution, its upholders and detractors, and the battle to amend it. The experience starts with a live-action show, telling visitors about the circumstances that led up to the signing of the Constitution. You then go up to the gallery, where interactive displays allow visitors to be sworn in as President or become a Supreme Court Justice, and there are sound and visual displays alongside more traditional glass cases of artefacts. The story is told through the battles of the times - about slavery and states' rights, votes for women, prohibition, desegregation and civil rights, the Equal Rights amendment, right up to the present-day debate about gay marriage. After travelling through the displays, visitors get a chance to add their names to the constitution, in the giant visitors' book, standing among the statues of the original signers. I can't think of a UK museum that so powerfully demonstrates the impact of politics and political decisions. This is a must-see on any visit to Philadelphia, for adults and children alike. 525 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA Historical, Cultural, Kids, Landmark

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