First Bank of the United States

A beautiful Greek Revival building that stands as a lasting testament to Alexander Hamilton’s vision for nation-building and the strength of America’s financial institutions.

After the Revolutionary War, the United States faced overwhelming debt and an uncertain commercial future. As a response, Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton stepped forward with a plan to establish a national bank, which would give the federal government more authority to handle the fiscal situation. His proposal incited a heated debate that tested the U.S. Constitution’s boundaries and laid the foundation for the country’s financial system. Located on 3rd Street between Walnut and Chestnut, the First Bank of the United States is currently closed to the public, but its compelling history and stunning exterior continually draw observers from all over the world.

Unfortunately, it’s currently under construction but from the outside it looks like a nice historical building.

Neither First Bank nor Second Bank were open during my visit as they undergo renovations in preparation for America250. First Bank is a red brick Georgian style building that will have its roof replaced, the exterior walls repaired, the interiors refreshed, and an accessible entrance constructed in the back so visitors of all abilities can enjoy the space. While I wish I could have gone inside these buildings, I did appreciate that they are being preserved for future visitors, and I enjoyed watching the construction.

A very cool space inside with an exhibition of diplomatic gifts received by the U.S. over the years. It's worth a quick visit. Reopened July 1 after 50 years!

A beautiful restoration. Check out the marble staircase! And it is air conditioned!

Renovations means brining it back to its original state. That’s not what happened here. Not worth the visit anyways, there’s only a few loaned out exhibit pieces.

Good

The First Bank is free for walk-in visits as part of the National Park Service Independence Mall area.The bank's golden dome and rotunda are spectacular! The Park Rangers offer free talks on the hour. The Bank reopened to visitors in July 2026. It has an ADA-compliant entrance and elevator, if you can't manage the historic winding staircase to the second floor. They are seeking government funding to add permanent exhibits about the bank's history. Current exhibits celebrate highlights of the Philadelphia 1876 and 1926 expositions. There is also an exhibit with luxurious artifacts of diplomatic gifts from countries around the world. Another highlight was seeing Alexander Hamilton's marble fireplace tucked in a corner. The Second Bank Portrait Gallery is nearby and worth the visit.

One of the many national Park stops In historic Philadelphia free entry. Very cool rooms to see here no line and good public bathrooms.