Top 50 best museums in Philadelphia

The Philadelphia Museum of Art, the largest art museum in Philadelphia, is a hub of diverse art collections from various periods and regions including Europe, America, and Asia. The museum welcomes approximately 800,000 visitors each year, making it a popular destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The Betsy Ross House, a landmark in Philadelphia, is believed to be the place where Betsy Ross, a seamstress and flag-maker, lived when she reportedly sewed the first American Flag. This historical significance makes it a point of interest for visitors interested in the origins of the American flag.

The Rodin Museum, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is an art museum that boasts one of the largest collections of works by the renowned sculptor Auguste Rodin outside of Paris. This makes it a significant destination for art enthusiasts and admirers of Rodin's work.

The Liberty Bell, located in Philadelphia, is a significant symbol of American independence. It was rung when the American Declaration of Independence was first publicly read on July 8, 1776. This historical event has cemented the bell's status as a national symbol of the United States.

The Philadelphia Zoo, located in the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on the west bank of the Schuylkill River, holds the distinction of being the first zoo in the United States. This historical significance adds to the charm and appeal of the zoo, making it a notable destination for tourists visiting the city.

The National Constitution Center, located at the Independence Mall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a non-profit institution dedicated to the study of the U.S. Constitution. This interactive museum serves as a national town hall, hosting a variety of public discussions and Constitution-related events. It is situated in what is often referred to as 'America's most historic square mile' due to its proximity to other significant sites such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

The Museum of the American Revolution, located in Philadelphia, is dedicated to the American Revolution. This period of political changes after 1763 in the thirteen British colonies of North America led to the United States' war of independence against Great Britain. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of this significant period in American history.

The United States Mint is a bureau of the Department of the Treasury responsible for producing coinage for the United States to conduct its trade and commerce , as well as controlling the movement of bullion . It does not produce paper money; that responsibility belongs to the Bureau of Engraving an

Elfreth's Alley, located in the Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a historic street that dates back to 1703. This makes it one of the oldest continuously inhabited residential streets in the United States. The street is named after Jeremiah Elfreth, an 18th-century blacksmith and property owner.

The Independence National Historical Park (NHP) is a significant historical site located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is recognized as the most visited historical district in the United States, attracting a large number of tourists each year. The park preserves and showcases the rich history of the American Revolution and the founding of the nation.

The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) holds the distinction of being the oldest art museum and art school in the United States. It is located in the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and was founded in 1805. This makes it a significant landmark in the history of American art and education.

The Eastern State Penitentiary, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a former prison that operated from 1829 to 1971. Since 1994, it has been repurposed as a museum, offering visitors a unique insight into the history of the American penal system.

The Franklin Institute, located in Philadelphia, is a museum dedicated to science. It serves as the city's primary center for education and research in the scientific field. Founded in 1824, the institute is named after the politician Benjamin Franklin and houses the Benjamin Franklin National Memorial. It is one of the oldest centers for the promotion of science in the United States.

The University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, also known as the Penn Museum, is a renowned institution located on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. The museum is dedicated to the study of archaeology and anthropology, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the rich history and diverse cultures of the world. The museum is housed in a Beaux-Arts style building and has been undergoing extensive renovations under the direction of British architect David Chipperfield since 2006.

The Barnes Foundation is a unique combination of an art museum and school, situated at 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was originally located in Lower Merion, a suburb of Philadelphia, until May 2012 when it moved to its current location. The foundation was established by Albert C. Barnes, a pharmaceutical entrepreneur who amassed a fortune from the invention of an antiseptic in 1907.

The Mütter Museum in Philadelphia is a unique destination for those interested in medical history. Affiliated with the College of Physicians of Philadelphia, the museum boasts a collection of over 20,000 items. These range from anatomical and pathological specimens to medical instruments and illustrations, providing a comprehensive look into the history of medicine.

Very interactive museum guaratees interesting and educational experience for all age groups. Much more fun than in a school!

The Independence Seaport Museum, previously known as the Philadelphia Maritime Museum, is a museum dedicated to the maritime history of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and the Delaware Valley. It is located on the Penn's Landing complex along the Delaware River. The museum was founded in 1961 by J. Welles Henderson and houses several ships, including two National Historic Landmarks.

Congress Hall is conveniently located on Chestnut Street, adjacent to Independence Hall. It is part of the Independence National Historical Park, a site that encompasses several historical landmarks. Its location makes it an accessible destination for tourists interested in exploring the rich history of Philadelphia and the United States.

Located on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway near Logan Circle, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University opened its doors to the public in 1828. It has a history of employing great American scientists of the time, often on a voluntary basis. Some of these include Thomas Say and Thomas Nuttall. Visitors can explore the institution's rich history and its contributions to the field of natural sciences.

This place exhibits first coining press and you can also watch coining operations from above. No reservations are necessary.

The Rosenbach Museum & Library, located in Philadelphia, is a unique institution that was established in 1954. It is dedicated to the preservation and display of manuscripts, rare items, and original book illustrations. The museum's collection includes a wide range of materials, from the Ulysses manuscript by James Joyce to the artistic legacy of Maurice Sendak.

The African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP) holds a significant place in history as the first museum funded and built by a municipality with the specific purpose of preserving, interpreting, and exhibiting the heritage of African Americans. This unique aspect of the museum's establishment sets it apart and adds a layer of historical importance to its existence.

The Parkway Central Library, also known as the Free Library or Central Library, is the primary public library building and administrative headquarters of the Free Library of Philadelphia system. It is the largest library in the system, with 54 branches, and is the only research library. The library is located on Vine Street, between 19th and 20th Street, and opened in 1927. Four stories and the ground floor are open to the public.

The Please Touch Museum is a unique children's museum situated in the Centennial District of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This museum is specifically designed to provide an interactive and educational experience for children, making it an ideal destination for families with young kids.

Franklin Court is a complex of museums, structures, and historic sites located within the Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This site is where Benjamin Franklin, an American printer, scientist, diplomat, and statesman, resided from 1763 until his death in 1790. The complex was designed by the firm of Venturi and Rauch and opened in 1976 as part of the United States Bicentennial celebration.

The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, also known as The Weitzman, is a Smithsonian-affiliated museum situated at 101 South Independence Mall East (S. 5th Street) at Market Street in Center City Philadelphia. The museum was established in 1976 and has since been a significant cultural and historical site. It offers a comprehensive insight into the American Jewish history, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in cultural and historical explorations.

The Institute of Contemporary Art, also known as ICA, is a contemporary art museum situated in Philadelphia. It is closely associated with the University of Pennsylvania and is conveniently located on its campus. This makes it easily accessible for visitors who are exploring the university or the surrounding area.

The Faith and Liberty Discovery Center (FLDC) is a recently opened museum situated on Philadelphia's Independence Mall. It is owned and operated by the American Bible Society. The museum offers a unique perspective on the influence of the Bible on the individuals who shaped America's history.

The Science History Institute, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is an American institution dedicated to promoting the understanding of the history of science. It is a place where visitors can explore the rich history of scientific discovery and its impact on our lives. The institute houses a library, a museum, archives, a research center, and a conference center, offering a comprehensive experience for those interested in the history of science.

Lemon Hill is a Federal-style mansion in Fairmount Park , Philadelphia , built from 1799 to 1800 by Philadelphia merchant Henry Pratt . The house is named after the citrus fruits that Pratt cultivated on the property in the early 19th century.

The Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial is a significant historical site located at 301 Pine Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is dedicated to preserving the home of Tadeusz (Thaddeus) Kościuszko, a Polish patriot and hero of the American Revolution. This memorial offers a unique opportunity to learn about the life and work of this remarkable individual, who played a crucial role in the fight for American independence.

Fort Mifflin, originally known as Fort Island Battery and also referred to as Mud Island Fort, is a historic military fort located on Mud Island, south of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is conveniently situated near the Philadelphia International Airport, making it easily accessible for tourists.

The Wagner Free Institute of Science is located at 1700 West Montgomery Avenue in north Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This natural history museum is a unique example of a Victorian era scientific society, complete with a museum, research center, library, and educational facilities. The buildings, which were developed between 1859 and 1901, house the collections of founder William Wagner and have been designated a National Historic Landmark.

The Center for Architecture and Design is housed in the Smyth Young Field Company Building at 1218 Arch Street. This historic building, which the Center purchased and renovated in 2008, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can appreciate the architectural significance of the building while exploring the Center's offerings.

The National Liberty Museum is situated at 321 Chestnut Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. This location is easily accessible and is in the heart of the city, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring Philadelphia.

One of the best known firemuseums in the country displays many collections of history of firefighting in Philly.

Mount Pleasant is a historic mansion located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This grand structure was built around 1761-62 by John Macpherson and his wife Margaret. The mansion stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the time and offers a glimpse into the lives of its former inhabitants.

Philadelphia's Magic Gardens is a unique non-profit organization, folk art environment, and gallery space located on South Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This distinctive space offers a blend of art, history, and community, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors.

Bartram’s Garden in Philadelphia holds the distinction of being the oldest existing botanical garden in North America. It was established in 1728 by John Bartram, a Quaker, botanist, and co-founder of the American Philosophical Society. This historical significance adds a unique charm to the garden, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in botany and history.

The Ryerss Mansion, also known as the Burholme Mansion, is a historic American mansion situated in the Fox Chase neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This mansion offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style of the time and the rich history associated with it.

The American Swedish Historical Museum, situated in Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park in South Philadelphia, holds the distinction of being the oldest Swedish-American museum in the United States. This museum is a testament to the rich history and cultural ties between Sweden and America, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore this relationship through various exhibits and collections.

Get to know Philadelphia even better and find those collections of historical artefacts describing the rich history of the city.

Lemon Hill is a Federal-style mansion in Fairmount Park , Philadelphia , built from 1799 to 1800 by Philadelphia merchant Henry Pratt . The house is named after the citrus fruits that Pratt cultivated on the property in the early 19th century.

The Marian Anderson House, located in the Southwest Center City neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a historic home that dates back to around 1870. The house was designed in the Italianate style, a popular architectural style during the Victorian era. This two-story, brick rowhouse is a significant part of the city's history and a testament to the life and legacy of Marian Anderson, the renowned opera singer and civil rights advocate.

The John Johnson House, located in the Germantown section of Philadelphia, is a National Historic Landmark. It holds significant historical value due to its role in the antislavery movement and the Underground Railroad. This site offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history of the abolitionist movement in the United States.

The Historic Strawberry Mansion, located in East Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a summer home built between 1783 and 1789. The mansion was originally constructed by Judge William Lewis and was initially named Summerville.

Woodford Mansion is a historic site located at Ford Road and Greenland Drive in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This mansion, built around 1756, is the first of Philadelphia's grand colonial Georgian mansion houses. It stands as a testament to the opulence of such houses during that era. Today, it serves as a historic house museum open to the public.

The Powel House, located at 244 South 3rd Street in the Society Hill neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a historic house museum. This Georgian style house, built in 1765, is a significant part of the city's history and offers a glimpse into the past. Visitors can explore the house and its ornate interiors, which were lavishly redecorated by its second owner, Samuel Powel.