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The Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center and its collection

The Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center
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The Fairmount Water Works in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a historic site that was once the city's second municipal waterworks. It was designed in 1812 by Frederick Graff and constructed over a period of 60 years from 1812 to 1872. The waterworks was operational until 1909 and during its time, it was highly praised for its design and became a popular tourist attraction.

Current Use and Recognition of Fairmount Water Works

Today, the Fairmount Water Works is home to a restaurant and an interpretive center that provides information about the original purpose of the waterworks and the history of the local watershed. In recognition of its architectural and engineering significance, it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976.

Educational Opportunities at Fairmount Water Works

The buildings of the Fairmount Water Works now serve as the Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center (FWWIC), an educational center focusing on science and the environment, established by the Philadelphia Water Department. The FWWIC offers a range of activities including interactive exhibits, lectures, events, and school programs.

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DEFairmount Water Works
ENFairmount Water Works

Science & Technology Science & Technology Nature & Natural History Nature & Natural History Industrial heritage Historic house

#32 Free museums in Philadelphia #8 Nature & Natural History in Philadelphia #9 Science & Technology in Philadelphia #53 Historic houses in Philadelphia #6 Industrial & heritage museums in Philadelphia #78 Free museums in Pennsylvania #37 Nature & Natural History in Pennsylvania #42 Science & Technology in Pennsylvania #157 Historic houses in Pennsylvania #34 Industrial & heritage museums in Pennsylvania

#32 Free museums in Philadelphia #8 Nature & Natural History in Philadelphia #9 Science & Technology in Philadelphia #53 Historic houses in Philadelphia #6 Industrial & heritage museums in Philadelphia #78 Free museums in Pennsylvania #37 Nature & Natural History in Pennsylvania #42 Science & Technology in Pennsylvania #157 Historic houses in Pennsylvania #34 Industrial & heritage museums in Pennsylvania

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The Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center
640 Waterworks Dr
PA 19130 Philadelphia
Pennsylvania

Images of The Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center

Visitor information The Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday
11:00 – 17:00
Thursday
11:00 – 17:00
Friday
11:00 – 17:00
Saturday
10:00 – 17:00
Sunday Closed

Admission

0+Free

Donations are accepted.

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of The Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center.

Location & Map

640 Waterworks Dr, Philadelphia

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in The Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center have been found.

The Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center Reviews

The Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center in Philadelphia offers visitors an informative look into the city's water system history and environmental science. Located along the Schuylkill River, the center provides educational exhibits on water management, ecology, and the importance of water conservation. Many visitors appreciate the interactive displays and hands-on activities, which make learning about water systems engaging for both adults and children. The center's historical significance as part of Philadelphia's early water supply infrastructure adds depth to the experience. While some reviewers note that the exhibits could benefit from updates, the majority find the content valuable and the staff knowledgeable. The picturesque setting by the river and the well-preserved 19th-century architecture of the building itself are often highlighted as additional draws. However, a few visitors mention that the center is relatively small and can be thoroughly explored in a short time. Despite this, the Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center is generally regarded as a worthwhile stop for those interested in environmental history and urban planning, offering a solid educational experience in a scenic location.

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