Philadelphia museums are some of the most diverse and exciting in the country, showcasing everything from art and history to science and technology. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the most popular museums in the city, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Franklin Institute, and the National Museum of American Jewish History.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of the most visited museums in the city, and for good reason. With a collection of over 240,000 works of art spanning 2,000 years of world culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The museum’s permanent collection includes everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art, with a particular emphasis on American art and European masterpieces.
Special Exhibitions
The museum regularly hosts special exhibitions, which feature art from around the world and throughout history. Past exhibitions have included works by famous artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. The museum also has a dedicated space for contemporary art, which features works by up-and-coming artists and thought-provoking installations.
History and Background
The Philadelphia Museum of Art was founded in 1876 and has been located in its current building since 1928. The museum’s iconic main building was designed by architect Horace Trumbauer, and is modeled after the famous French palace, the Louvre. The museum’s main building also features a grand staircase that was famously featured in the movie “Rocky.”
Guided Tours
The museum offers a variety of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the collection and learn more about the art and artifacts on display. Tours are available in English and Spanish and can be booked in advance.
The Franklin Institute
The Franklin Institute is one of the most popular science museums in the country, and is a must-visit destination for families and science enthusiasts. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of scientific topics, from astronomy and physics to biology and engineering.
Special Exhibitions
The museum regularly hosts special exhibitions that highlight cutting-edge research and technology. Past exhibitions have included interactive displays on topics such as robotics and virtual reality, as well as traveling exhibits from other science museums around the world.
History and Background
The Franklin Institute was founded in 1824 in honor of Benjamin Franklin, one of America’s most famous scientists and inventors. The museum is located in the heart of Philadelphia and has been in its current building since 1934. The museum’s mission is to inspire a passion for learning about science and technology.
Guided Tours
The Franklin Institute offers a variety of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the museum’s exhibits and learn more about the science behind them. Tours are available in English and Spanish and can be booked in advance.
National Museum of American Jewish History
The National Museum of American Jewish History is a Smithsonian Affiliate museum that tells the story of Jewish Americans and their contributions to American life and culture. The museum’s collection includes artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits that explore the Jewish American experience from colonial times to the present day.
Special Exhibitions
The museum regularly hosts special exhibitions that delve deeper into specific aspects of Jewish American history and culture. Past exhibitions have included displays on Jewish American women, Jewish American soldiers, and Jewish American artists.
History and Background
The National Museum of American Jewish History was founded in 1976 and is located in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic district. The museum’s mission is to tell the story of Jewish Americans and their contributions to American society through its collection of artifacts, photographs, and interactive exhibits. The museum’s building was designed by world-renowned architect James Polshek, and features a striking glass tower that serves as a beacon in the city’s skyline.
Guided Tours
The National Museum of American Jewish History offers a variety of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the museum’s exhibits and learn more about Jewish American history and culture. Guided tours are available in English, Hebrew and Spanish and can be booked in advance. The museum also offers an Audio tour which can be accessed through a phone with the museum’s app.
In conclusion, Philadelphia museums offer a wide range of experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. From world-class art and science to unique perspectives on American history and culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in ancient artifacts or cutting-edge technology, these museums offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. So if you’re ever in Philadelphia, be sure to take the time to visit one or all of these fantastic institutions.
