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
Free — you won’t need your pass here.
Free entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
- Fee type No fee — No fee is charged here.
- HoursThe site is open to the public with no scheduled operating hours.
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact 217-492-4241 · NEPH_Information@nps.gov
New Philadelphia National Historic Site is in rural western Illinois between the Mississippi and Illinois rivers near Interstate 72. The site can be reached by turning onto 306th Lane from County Highway 2. An informational kiosk is immediately on the left after turning onto 306th Lane. The small ci
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for New Philadelphia National Historic Site — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
No Is there a fee at New Philadelphia National Historic Site?
No — it’s free to enter, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Depends What are the hours?
The site is open to the public with no scheduled operating hours.
Nearby sites
Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Illinois River - Riverlands
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
