Can You Touch the Bell?
Security has been tighter since the bell moved into the Liberty Bell Center on 9 October 2003, following a 2001 attack on it by a visitor with a hammer. Every visitor and bag goes through an airport-style screening before entering, and entry is free, with no ticket, on a first come, first served basis. The touchable casting is of the inscription, which begins “Proclaim LIBERTY throughout all the Land”, from Leviticus 25:10; the inscription page gives the full text. Practical details on the hall, from security to accessibility, are on the Liberty Bell Center page.
Frequently asked questions
Can you touch the Liberty Bell?
No. The bell cannot be touched, but the exhibit has a casting of the inscription that visitors are encouraged to touch (NPS).
How close can you get to the Liberty Bell?
Inside the Liberty Bell Center visitors see the bell itself, but they cannot touch it. The Liberty Bell Center page covers the visit.
Why can’t visitors touch the Liberty Bell?
It is a cracked, centuries-old bronze bell kept as a national symbol. Security was tightened after a visitor attacked it with a hammer in 2001, and it moved to its current hall in 2003.