5 of the Best Museums in Philadelphia Pennsylvania in 2024

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a city rich in history and culture, offering a treasure trove of experiences for all explorers. Home to an impressive array of museums, the city provides visitors with a unique glimpse into the past, present, and future through its diverse collections and exhibitions. From world-renowned institutions to specialized museums preserving the heritage of various communities, there’s something for everyone. 

We’re breaking down the best museums in Philadelphia that range from iconic to museums you might not have heard of. We’ll provide all the details you need, including which exhibits are worth seeing, how to get to each museum, and where to park. Sit back and relax as we explore what Philadelphia PA, has to offer.

Philadelphia Museum of Art

Also referred to as the “Fairmount Art Museum of Philadelphia” because it’s location of Fairmount Street, this city staple has a lot to offer to both visitors and locals. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the country’s oldest art museums. This museum has over 200,000 objects curated by generations of Philadelphia creators. 

With wings dedicated to unique mediums like textiles, and art forms like costume design, it’ll be hard to find something that doesn’t grab your attention. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a casual observer, the museum’s extensive collection, which spans centuries and continents, promises a captivating and enriching experience. 

Notable exhibits and pieces at the Philadelphia Museum of Art 

• Vincent Van Gogh’s Sunflowers 

• Fountain by Marcel Duchamp 

• Portrait of Yallow Mamont by Charles Wilson Peale 

• The Peale Family Collection 

• The Philadelphia Silver Collection 

How much does it cost? 

The Philadelphia Museum of Art’s cost varies based on age and if you’re a member. Adult admission is $30 while youths under 18 are free. This museum also offers a “pay what you wish” admission day on the first Sunday of the month.  

How to get there 

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is a short distance from Center City Philadelphia. This museum sits end of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, close to I-76 and is only a 20-minute drive (depending on traffic) from the closest airport. Bus and train transportation is available with only a one mile walk from the nearest train station to the museum. 

The Philadelphia Museum of Art’s location is: 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19130 

Where to park 

Philadelphia Museum of Art parking is easy to find with a parking garage available near the main building. According to Philadelphia Museum of Art’s website, if you’re approaching via Kelly Drive, turn onto Anne d’Harnoncourt Drive or Waterworks Drive and follow the signs directing you to parking. If you’re coming from Spring Garden Street, follow Anne d’Harnoncourt Drive around the curve; the garage will be on your left. 

Mummers Museum

The Mummers Museum in Philadelphia is devoted to preserving and documenting the citizens who celebrate the New Year. The Mummers Museum shares costumes, oral histories, video and audio archives of the long-running Philadelphia tradition. This “out-of-the-box” also has a fun interactive exhibit that teaches you how to “strut” like a true Mummer.  

Notable exhibits at the Philadelphia Mummers Museum 

• Play around on a glockenspiel, one of the most important instruments to play the Mummers anthem of “Oh, Dem Golden Slippers” 

• The “Strut Like a Native Mummer” exhibit 

• Rows of Mummer costumes from throughout the decades 

How much does it cost? 

Admission to the Mummers Museum in Philadelphia only costs about $3 for general admission. If you’re curious about purchasing a Membership to the Mummers Museum, packages can range anywhere from $25 to $1,500 annually. 

How to get there 

If you’re coming from Center City, head south on Broad Street and turn left onto Washington Avenue. Turn right onto South 2nd Street. The Mummers Museum location is at 1100 South 2nd Street. 

While there is no dedicated parking lot for the Mummers Museum, there is street parking available near the museum. Be sure to check parking signs for any restrictions. 

Woodmere Art Museum

The Woodmere Art Museum in Philadelphia centers around art and artists right in Philadelphia. This museum celebrates the achievements and social ideas of the city’s artists. Most notably, the Woodmere Art Museum carries a large focus on female artists with pieces curated by former museum director Edith Emerson.  

The Woodmere Museum in Philadelphia also houses a variety of special mediums you might not find anywhere else. These include a “land-sculpting” installation, a fountain sculpture, and even a children’s gallery with art produced by children in local Philadelphia area schools. (This exhibit is available until August 25th, 2024.) This museum also offers guests unique experiences like jazz shows, lectures, Tuesday night movie selections, and art and wellness events where visitors with dementia and their care partners can visit artwork in a comfortable environment. 

Notable exhibits and pieces at the Woodmere Art Museum 

• Charles Know Smith’s Hudson River paintings 

• A New House for Violet Oakley’s House of Wisdom 

• Woodmere’s Outdoor Wonder Exhibit 

•  Sarah Fisher Ames’ marble bust, Abraham Lincoln 

How much does it cost? 

Admission to the Woodmere Art Museum in Philadelphia costs $10. Seniors 55+ cost $7, while children and students with IDs and museum members receive free admission. The Woodmere Museum also offers free admission on Sundays.  

How to get there 

Woodmere is located a few blocks from the Chestnut Hill East and West train stations. Woodmere is also accessible by SEPTA bus #23. The Woodmere Museum of Art’s location is: 9201 Germantown Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19118. 

Where to park 

This is a free parking lot available for museum visitors. While wheelchair accessible parking is available at the Widener Studio building, located to the right of the museum. 

Please Touch Museum

If you’re looking for a children’s museum in Philadelphia, the Please Touch Museum should be on your list! The Please Touch Museum has two floors of engaging exhibits for your child to explore and learn from. Some of the most captivating attractions include a 3,000+ square foot interactive exhibit exploring food and family, a “Markerspace”, an art studio, and so much more! 

The Please Touch children’s museum in Philadelphia also features an extensive collection of more than 25,000 historic toys and games. This museum also houses cultural artifacts representing the history of American child-life.  

Notable exhibits at the Please Touch Museum 

• Woodside Park Dentzel Carousel  

• Please Touch Museum’s indoor treehouse 

• “Cents and Sensibility: Fun with Money!” exhibit 

• Storytime Cabin 

• Fairytale Garden 

How much does it cost? 

General admission to the Please Touch Museum will cost $22 for both adults and children. A reservation is required prior to entering the Please Touch Museum while Members receive free general admission for 12 months and free parking. 

How to get there 

Getting to Please Touch Museum can be done by car with ride shares being able to be dropped off at the main entrance. For bus routes, SEPTA Bus Route 38 stops at Please Touch Museum while bus routes 40, 43, and 64 stop within walking distance of the Museum. The Please Touch museum’s location is 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131. 

Where to park 

There’s free on-street parking available near the Please Touch Museum. Off-street parking is available in a gated lot provided by the museum that costs $16; payment can be made upon arrival at the admissions desk. 

The Franklin Institute

The Franklin Institute aims to help visitors understand science and technology through exciting and interactive exhibits. This museum has hands-on experiences that engage all ages, making complex concepts accessible and fun. From exploring the mysteries of space in the Fels Planetarium to experiencing the innovation of the LEGO in the “Art of the Brick” exhibit, there’s something for everyone. 

Notable exhibits at The Franklin Institute 

• “The Art of the Brick” exhibit with a 9,000 square foot brick play space. (Available until September 2024) 

• “Make-a-Maze” interactive activity 

• The Bejamin Franklin memorial 

• The “Sports Zone” exhibit 

• The “Navigate Your Neural Network” 18-foot-tall climb 

How much does it cost? 

General admission to The Franklin Institute costs adults $25 while children 3-11 costs $21. Admission to other temporary exhibits like the “Art of Bricks” exhibit costs extra but also includes general museum admission. 

How to get there 

According to TFI’s website, The Franklin Institute science museum is located in Center City Philadelphia, at the intersection of 20th Street and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The museum is also accessible by bus, train, and within walking distance of certain locations.  

The Franklin Institute’s location is: 22 N 20th Street Philadelphia, PA 19103 

Where to park 

The museum parking garage is located at the intersection of 21st Street and Winter Street. The exact GPS address to get to TFI’s parking garage is: 271 North 21st Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103. Space is limited and parking is $25 per vehicle. 

Philadelphia’s vibrant museum scene offers a wealth experiences that cater to a wide range of interests. From iconic institutions to hidden gems, these museums not only preserve and celebrate Philadelphia’s diverse heritage but also inspire and educate visitors of all ages. So, plan your visit and dive into the fascinating world of Philadelphia’s best museums – there’s always something new to discover in this historic city.