Best Museums & Art Galleries in Philadelphia, United States

1. Philadelphia Museum of Art

Iconic museum with a magnificent collection, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Warhol. Famous for its grand staircase from Rocky.

Extensive Collection: Houses over 240,000 objects ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary works.
Rocky Steps: Famous location for the iconic Rocky movie series.
Free First Sundays: Enjoy free admission every first Sunday of each month.

A unique museum showcasing an extensive collection of impressionist, post-impressionist, and early modern paintings.

Unconventional Layout: Designed with a non-traditional layout for a more immersive experience.
Rare Collections: Features works by Matisse, Renoir, Cézanne, and Picasso not commonly seen in other museums.
Pioneering Educational Programs: Provides innovative educational programs for visitors of all ages.

Science museum and National Historic Landmark featuring interactive exhibits on science and technology.

Hands-On Exhibits: Offers numerous interactive exhibits for a fun, educational experience.
Historic Building: Located in the historic Benjamin Franklin National Memorial building.
IMAX Theatre: Features an IMAX theatre for immersive film experiences.

Explores the history and impact of the U.S. Constitution through interactive exhibits, programs, and debates.

Interactive Exhibits: Offers numerous interactive exhibits, including a replica of Independence Hall.
Historical Perspectives: Provides perspectives on the U.S. Constitution from various historical figures.
Living Constitutional Debates: Features live debates on current constitutional issues.

Dedicated to exploring the rich history and culture of African Americans and their impact on Philadelphia and America.

Community Engagement: Fosters community engagement through educational programs, exhibitions, and events.
Permanent Exhibits: Features permanent exhibits on topics such as the Underground Railroad, Harlem Renaissance, and Civil Rights Movement.
Temporary Exhibits: Offers rotating temporary exhibitions to highlight contemporary issues and artists.

A museum dedicated to the history of medicine featuring an impressive collection of medical specimens and artifacts.

Unique Collections: Houses over 25,000 medical specimens, including the Soap Lady and Harlequin Baby.
Historical Artifacts: Features historical artifacts from famous doctors and surgeons throughout history.
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for visitors interested in the history of medicine.

One of America's oldest natural science research and education organizations with a diverse array of exhibits.

Research and Conservation: Conducts ongoing research and conservation efforts for various species.
Interactive Exhibits: Features interactive exhibits, including the Butterfly House and Dinosaurs Alive!
Live Animals: Houses a variety of live animals, including fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals.

A contemporary art museum focused on the commissioning, creation, and presentation of new works by emerging and established artists.

Artist Residency Programs: Supports artists through residency programs and collaborative projects.
Unique Artworks: Features a diverse collection of large-scale, site-specific installations.
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for visitors to engage with the art and artists.

A museum dedicated to the study of English literature and cultural history, featuring works by the Rosenbach brothers.

Rare Book Collection: Houses one of the largest private collections of rare books in the world.
Manuscripts and Letters: Features original manuscripts and letters from famous authors, such as Charles Dickens and James Joyce.
Exhibitions and Programs: Offers rotating exhibitions and educational programs related to English literature and cultural history.

A museum dedicated to exploring the history of the American Revolution through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive experiences.

Revolutionary Artifacts: Features an impressive collection of artifacts from the American Revolution.
Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits, including a multimedia theater and hands-on experiences.
Educational Programs: Provides educational programs for visitors of all ages to learn about the American Revolution.

A museum dedicated to the celebration of freedom and the inspiring stories of courageous individuals.

Inspirational Exhibits: Features exhibits highlighting stories of heroes, including a Hall of Heroes.
Interactive Experiences: Offers interactive experiences for visitors, such as the Freedom Rising sculpture.
Educational Programs: Provides educational programs for students and educators to learn about freedom and liberty.

A maritime museum dedicated to the story of Philadelphia's waterfront, featuring historic ships and exhibits.

Historic Ships: Features historic ships, including the Olympia and Submarine Becuna.
Exhibits on Philadelphia's Maritime History: Offers exhibits showcasing the history of Philadelphia's waterfront and maritime industry.
Interactive Experiences: Provides interactive experiences, such as boat rides on the Delaware River.

A museum dedicated to exploring the history, culture, and contemporary life of the Jewish community in Philadelphia.

Permanent Exhibits: Features permanent exhibits on topics such as immigration, family, and identity.
Temporary Exhibits: Offers rotating temporary exhibitions to showcase contemporary Jewish art and artists.
Educational Programs: Provides educational programs for visitors to learn about the history, culture, and traditions of Judaism.

A museum dedicated to showcasing the rich artistic heritage of Asia through a diverse collection.

Extensive Collection: Houses over 14,000 objects from China, Japan, Korea, South and Southeast Asia, and the Himalayas.
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for visitors to learn about Asian art, culture, and history.
Community Engagement: Fosters community engagement through cultural events, workshops, and festivals.

A museum dedicated to the history of science and technology, featuring artifacts, exhibits, and interactive experiences.

Unique Collection: Features a collection of artifacts, including Thomas Edison's first light bulb.
Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits for visitors to engage with the history of science and technology.
Educational Programs: Provides educational programs for students, educators, and lifelong learners.