I cried… I didn’t intend it…I wasn’t expecting it. But I did. It got to me.

The multi-media Show at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is called “Freedom Rising” and is one of the most powerful experiences I’ve had at an attraction.

I can’t begin to tell you how much I enjoyed this Aquarium! Don’t let the location keep you from going. The Adventure Aquarium is located in Camden, New Jersey just across the river from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. River Shuttle is the best method but you can also take a bus or taxi there.

The Independence Seaport Museum is spread out on the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania waterfront at Penn’s Landing and you have to see it all. The building, ship and submarine. It’s the only way to get the full effect.

Inside the building you learn amazing maritime history from shipbuilding to navigation. Wonderful figureheads and an interactive ship construction area. Once you are armed with nautical knowledge you must visit the 1892 ship Olympia and WWII Submarine Becuna. One of the highlights here is the Submarine veterans who work there and share real life adventures with the guests! I can’t imagine living on a submarine for months at a time given the cramped quarters. All seafaring fans will enjoy this authentic attraction and a chance to step back in time.

The giant, walk-through heart at the Franklin Institute Science Museum in Philadelphia Pennsylvania is a blast! Where else can you explore massive aortas and walk around circulation systems?

This tribute to Benjamin Franklin includes many of his personal items and encourages hands-on science. Lots of buttons, levers and switches. While much of it is kid-friendly, there is plenty for adults and kids of all ages. They even have a very nice Food Cafe. Travelling exhibits and an IMAX Theater keep the museum fresh while old favorites, like the giant heart, still inspire.

The Zoo, like many things in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is America’s first Zoo. Forty-two acres of animal delight! They do a great job of blending the old and the new here.

I really loved the old stone zoo buildings and modern exhibits like “Big Cat Falls” will keep you entertained for hours watching the cats explore their environment.

While they have unusual animals like White Tigers and Giant River Otters, they also have more common species in interesting settings like the Flamingos. When I walked around one corner past a large rock, I came face to face with a bear! He looked at me and I looked at him before I realized there was a deep moat between us. After sniffing the air he turned and walked away but I have to admit my heart was pounding.