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Once Upon A Nation: A Journey Through Philadelphia's Stories

Explore Philadelphia's rich history through captivating storytelling at Once Upon A Nation, a unique tourist attraction in the heart of the city.

★★★★★4.9 (23)

Once Upon A Nation is a captivating tourist attraction in Philadelphia that offers a unique blend of storytelling and performance, perfect for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the city's rich history. This engaging experience is set in the heart of the city, making it an ideal stop for families and curious travelers alike.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Once Upon A Nation

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
600 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, Center City East, Pennsylvania, 19106, US
Monday
6 pm-10 pm
Tuesday
6 pm-10 pm
Wednesday
6 pm-10 pm
Thursday
6 pm-10 pm
Friday
6 pm-11 pm
Saturday
6 pm-11 pm
Sunday
6 pm-10 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Once Upon A Nation.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Arrive early to secure a good seat, as the venue can fill up quickly.
Check the schedule online to plan your visit around specific storytelling sessions.
Consider visiting nearby historic sites before or after your session for a full day of exploration.
Dress comfortably, as the storytelling sessions can last for a while.
Engage with the storytellers after the performance to learn more about the stories behind the tales.

Discover more about Once Upon A Nation

Once Upon A Nation is a delightful fusion of history and entertainment that transports visitors through the vibrant stories of Philadelphia. Nestled in the bustling Center City East, this immersive experience captivates audiences of all ages with its engaging tales told by talented storytellers. As you take part in this enchanting journey, you'll discover the city's rich heritage, from its founding days to modern times, all brought to life through captivating narratives and performances. The charm of Once Upon A Nation lies in its ability to weave together historical facts with lively storytelling, making it not only educational but also thoroughly entertaining. The attraction stands out as a must-visit for tourists seeking to delve deeper into Philadelphia's past. Each performance is crafted to connect audiences with the rich tapestry of the city's history, while the intimate setting fosters a personal experience. The storytelling sessions are held in the evenings, providing a cozy atmosphere for visitors to unwind and absorb the tales being shared. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or on your own, Once Upon A Nation is an enriching experience that enhances your understanding of Philadelphia's cultural landscape. Moreover, the location is conveniently situated near other historical sites and attractions, allowing visitors to easily incorporate it into their travel itinerary. The combination of storytelling and the surrounding historical context makes this venue a unique gem in Philadelphia's vibrant tapestry of cultural attractions. Don't miss the chance to engage with history in a way that is both unique and entertaining at Once Upon A Nation.

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    Getting There

    Car

    If you're traveling by car, start by heading southwest on your current road towards the nearest major highway. Depending on your starting point in Main Line, you may take Route 30 or Route 476 South to connect to I-76 East. Follow I-76 East and take exit 344B for I-95 North. Keep left to stay on I-95 North, then take exit 22 toward Columbus Blvd. Merge onto Columbus Blvd and turn right onto Chestnut St. Once Upon A Nation is located at 600 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Parking is available in nearby garages; expect to pay around $20 for parking.

    Public Transportation - Train

    For public transportation, you can take the SEPTA Regional Rail from any station in Main Line (such as Ardmore or Bryn Mawr) towards Center City Philadelphia. Board the train heading to Suburban Station. Once you arrive at Suburban Station, exit and walk to the City Hall stop to transfer to the Broad Street Line (Orange Line). Take the Broad Street Line to the 15th Street station. From there, walk east on Chestnut St for about 10 minutes to reach Once Upon A Nation at 600 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106. The train fare will be approximately $10 each way.

    Public Transportation - Bus

    If you prefer bus travel, catch the SEPTA bus route 105 or 106 from Main Line locations, which head towards the King of Prussia area. Transfer to the 124 or 125 bus towards the 69th Street Terminal. From there, take the 104 bus toward the 69th Street Terminal and get off at 15th and Chestnut St. Walk east on Chestnut St for about 5 minutes to reach Once Upon A Nation at 600 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106. The total bus fare is approximately $2.50.

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