A grassy field surrounded by forest under a sunny sky with large white clouds.

National Historic Site · Illinois

New Philadelphia National Historic Site

To a casual observer, New Philadelphia looked like a typical Illinois pioneer town. But a closer look revealed a unique and racially diverse community. New Philadelphia was the first US town platted and registered by an African American. A formerly enslaved man, Free Frank McWorter, founded New Philadelphia in 1836 and purchased freedom for himself and 15 family members.

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Things to do

  • Guided Tours

Weather & when to go

Temperatures at our site can range from 0°F (-18°C) in the winter to 95°F (35°C) or warmer in the summer. Summers can be very humid, with intense sun, rainstorms, thunderstorms possible. Snow and occasional blizzard conditions are possible in the winter. Please dress appropriately for potential weather conditions and plan ahead.

Operating hours

Operating Hours

The site is open to the public with no scheduled operating hours.

FAQ

Is New Philadelphia National Historic Site free to visit?
New Philadelphia National Historic Site does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
What are the hours at New Philadelphia National Historic Site?
The site is open to the public with no scheduled operating hours.
Do I need a reservation for New Philadelphia National Historic Site?
No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter New Philadelphia National Historic Site. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.