Philadelphia Science, History & Cultural Museums

Science, History & Cultural Museums

• African American Museum in Philadelphia: This museum celebrates and preserves the rich cultural heritage and contributions of African Americans, featuring exhibits on history, art, and culture in the United States. www.aampmuseum.org
• Atwater Kent Collection: This online resource offers access to a collection of Philadelphia’s historical artifacts, providing insight into the city’s past through photographs, documents, and objects. philadelphiahistory.catalogaccess.com/home
• American Swedish Historical Museum: Dedicated to preserving Swedish-American heritage, the museum showcases the history, art, and culture of Swedish immigrants in the United States. www.americanswedish.org
• Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Education Center: Located along the Schuylkill River, this center educates visitors about water history, technology, and the significance of clean water in urban development. fairmountwaterworks.org
• Historic Register Designations: Go on a virtual tour of our city by visiting Historic Register Designations to shed light on little-known Philadelphia history.
  hiddencityphila.org/2025/03/new-historic-register-designations-shed-light-on-little-known-philadelphia-history/
• Independence Seaport Museum: (Penn’s landing)This museum showcases Philadelphia’s rich maritime history with exhibits on naval warfare, the history of the Delaware River, and the city’s role in the development of American industry. It is also home to the USS Olympia, the oldest steel warship still afloat, and the Submarine Becuna. Visitors can explore the museum’s diverse exhibits and participate in hands-on activities. www.phillyseaport.org
• Mütter Museum: Part of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia, this museum displays a collection of medical specimens, anatomical and pathological artifacts, and antique medical equipment, providing a glimpse into the history of medicine. www.muttermuseum.org
• Science History Institute: (Old City) This museum explores the history of chemistry and its impact on society, featuring interactive exhibits and historical artifacts. www.sciencehistory.org
• Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center: A traditional Japanese house and garden in Philadelphia, offering cultural programs and events to introduce visitors to Japanese art, architecture, and customs. japanphilly.org/shofuso
• The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University: Established in 1812, this museum is the oldest natural science research institution in the Americas, featuring extensive exhibits on natural history, including dinosaur fossils and a live butterfly garden. www.ansp.org
• The Athenaeum of Philadelphia: (Old City)  A historic library and museum that offers a wealth of resources on Philadelphia’s architecture, history, and culture, housing rare books and unique collections. philaathenaeum.org/about/
• The Colored Girls Museum: A museum dedicated to honoring the stories, experiences, and cultural contributions of Black women. thecoloredgirlsmuseum.com
• The Franklin Institute: A leading science museum offering interactive exhibits, an IMAX theater, and a planetarium, focusing on science and technology. www.fi.edu
• The Insectarium: (Holmesburg) A fascinating educational center focused on the world of insects, showcasing live specimens and exhibits that highlight the ecological importance of insects. insectariuminstitute.com
• The National Constitution Center: (Old City) An interactive museum dedicated to the U.S. Constitution, offering engaging exhibits and programs that explore the Constitution’s history and relevance. constitutioncenter.org
• The Please Touch Museum: Designed for young children, this museum offers interactive exhibits that encourage learning through play, focusing on themes like transportation, city life, and the environment. www.pleasetouchmuseum.org
• The Rosenbach Museum & Library: (Rittenhouse Square) This museum houses rare books and manuscripts, including works by James Joyce and Maurice Sendak, offering insights into literary history. www.rosenbach.org
• The Wagner Free Institute of Science: A Victorian-era natural history museum offering a glimpse into 19th-century scientific education, with exhibits on geology, zoology, and paleontology. www.wagnerfreeinstitute.org
• The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History: This museum traces the history and heritage of American Jews, featuring exhibitions that highlight their contributions to American society. theweitzman.org