Philadelphia’s reputation as a city of firsts extends deep into its cultural fabric, where colonial history meets contemporary expression. While the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall draw millions, the city’s museum scene offers a quieter, more profound revolution.
For art lovers, Philadelphia is a walkable treasure trove of masterpieces, from intimate collector estates to sprawling neoclassical institutions. Navigating this landscape can be overwhelming, especially when you only have a weekend or a short stay.
The city is not just about the iconic “Rocky Steps”; it is a global art capital with deep roots in American craftsmanship and avant-garde thinking. Understanding the distinct personality of each institution helps you curate a visit that matches your aesthetic taste, whether you crave Impressionism, modern sculpture, or medical oddities.
This guide is designed to cut through the noise and deliver the essential stops for any cultural itinerary. We have prioritized venues based on the quality of their permanent collections, the uniqueness of their architecture, and the overall visitor experience.
You will find a mix of world-famous landmarks and hidden gems that locals cherish. Rather than simply listing addresses, we aim to explain why these spaces matter in the broader context of art history.
Philadelphia’s museums are often deeply personal, born from the private collections of industrialists and doctors who wanted to educate the public. This legacy of philanthropy has resulted in an unusually diverse array of viewing experiences.
Whether you are a first-time visitor trying to hit the highlights or a local looking to rediscover your city, this list provides a comprehensive starting point. We focus on the practical value of each visit, ensuring you know what to expect before you walk through the doors.
Below, you will find a curated selection of the twelve best art museums Philadelphia has to offer, followed by expert tips to maximize your cultural excursion.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
| Address | 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:45 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 763-8100 |
Simply among the best in the world! Get you walking shoes ready & be prepared to maximize your step count because there is so much to see. I thought Detroit’s DIA was amazing, yet Philly’s was much larger in scope. This might be the best art museum in the US. I felt it competed in a much higher league, such as Berlin’s Pergamon or London’s British Museum. For the most part most major museums maintain quality collections, however Philly’s stands out to me because of the immersion factor and large scale. I’ve travelled all over the world and have patroned large & small. The only negatives is the entrance cost is steep ($30 for an adult) and the halls are brimming with people and it can feel like being sardine in some areas.
Over the weekend, I visited the Philadelphia Museum of Art in downtown Philadelphia. The neoclassical building itself is a work of art, looking from a distance like a majestic ancient Greek temple.
The collection is extraordinarily rich, with over 300,000 pieces spanning from ancient sculpture to modern masterpieces. The Impressionist gallery is one of the finest in the country. Seeing van Gogh's Sunflowers in person was overwhelming—the intensity of the colors far exceeded anything I'd imagined. Picasso's Three Musicians was equally delightful. The Asian art section was also a pleasant surprise, even featuring a complete Ming Dynasty hall from China.
The museum's famous "Rocky Steps" at the entrance are a must-visit photo spot, and from the top you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Philadelphia skyline. Adult tickets are $30, and I'd recommend setting aside at least three hours for your visit. On Friday evenings, the museum stays open until 8:45 PM and often hosts special events. An unmissable art treasure in Philadelphia!
The Philadelphia Museum of Art has a beautiful collection and is definitely worth visiting if you’re in the city. I’ve been to both this museum and the MET, and while I personally think the MET has a larger and more impressive collection, I still really enjoyed my visit here. The exhibits are well curated, and it’s a great place to spend a few hours appreciating art. If you’re already in Philadelphia, I’d definitely recommend adding it to your itinerary.
Beautiful musuem with alot of famous and intricate paintings. Blew my mind on how many things were on display as well as the range from paintings and pots to whole ruins you can walk through. As well as a nice gift shop with very cute trinkets. Would love to go again
An incredible museum with a world-class collection! The galleries are spacious, beautifully curated, and offer something for everyone. Running up the iconic steps for the view of the city skyline is the perfect bonus. Highly recommended!
Barnes Foundation
| Address | 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 278-7000 |
This place really blew my mind. It’s overwhelmingly beautiful with so much to look at you’ll get a headache if you don’t take a break at the cafe. I’ve been to some of the best museums in the Western World and there is nothing like it. Take your time. Think about the collector’s vision. See how the artists develop. And then you can argue about whether this fits Barnes vision while admiring the gorgeous architecture of the building.
You will be asked to put any large bags in a free locker. Plan accordingly.
I never herd of this museum. Stumbled upon it on my way to the Philadelphia museum of art. And I was shocked by how amazing this museum is. They have a billion dollars worth of art and have it laid out in a series of small and intimate rooms. Just so very unique. If you are a museum goer please do not miss this museum. Modigliani, Renoir, Matisse, Cezanne, and 7 Van Goghs!
So happy I stumbled on this museum. I think they need to rename it to the Barnes Museum. It will get more recognition .
Beautiful, minimalist architecture... The Garden restaurant was a wonderful culinary experience. All the staff were friendly and extremely helpful. I bought a lot of gifts from the shop. The art exhibition was quite memorable. There was live music in the evening as well. Definitely recommend for a solo, date, wedding venue....
One of the most beautiful and interesting museum I have ever visited. It housed world’s largest french impressionism paintings from Renoir, Monet, Manet to Degas, Matisse, Van Gough and Picasso. The architecture is simple but impressive and the way they arranged the paintings and other arts are interesting, you should get a guide to tell the story behind, though…worth it.
I haven't seen the collection since the old location and it was even better. It was the most beautiful day in Philadelphia history I think, and the restaurant and museum was perfect. I got to show my son why I became an artist, the Barns.
Institute of Contemporary Art
| Address | 118 S 36th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 898-5911 |
Stopped by this gallery when I took a trip down to Philly for work and enjoyed the experience. The staff/curators were super friendly and welcoming too! One of the artists with a solo exhibition was there to discuss their work so there was music, drinks, and snacks available as part of the event. They had both a group exhibit as well as a solo exhibit at the gallery and both of the overall topics and themes of the exhibits were so interesting and I enjoyed reading the story and ideas behind each artists' work. There were a variety of super thoughtful and intricate pieces as seen in the photos I captured. And it was just great to get out of that more strategic and business-centric state of mind and get the right side of my brain more active. Additional things to note - parking was a bit tough as the gallery is located on the UPenn campus so I had to find parking in a nearby lot and took a short walk to the gallery, so just one thing to keep in mind/plan ahead for. But overall had a pleasant time here and encourage others to stop by!!
Wonderful institution on Penn's campus with changing feature exhibits. Briefly toured the Mavis Pusey feature. Enjoyed the explanation of her work which comprised three phases and which all addressed color, her consistent muted tones palette, form and the body, and relationship to civics and society.
The Philadelphia Institute of Contemporary Art is definitely one of my newest favorite museums in the city. This place was really refreshing, not just in terms of the open space and naturally available light, but also the exhibits.
I was forging enough to be able to see an exhibit by David Antonio Cruz a Puerto Rican born in Philadelphia and lived in New York. The exhibit was great and it is possible to find Puerto Rican artist and exhibited in places like the Institute of Contemporary Art. If you have an opportunity I would suggest checking this show Out. It offers a look into the artists thinking of what constitutes family and extended family. Another exhibit was called Movables and it was super funky I thoroughly enjoyed the sculptures and creative use of both materials and space. You can see many of the pieces in my photos.
The staff at this place are super chill! You can ask them questions and they gladly help you. Especially, the guard which you see in my photo. She actually gave my wife her own private tour and explained the sculptures to her. She is funny and very relatable. Kudos for a very cool staff. if you are in the area are close by you should definitely check out these exhibits.
The museum was thoroughly accessible. There is no place that a wheelchair cannot get to at this museum. The bathrooms were fully accessible as you can tell from the photos. As many of you know I do like a Museum gift shop. This one has a very small one which is fine as they are not a huge museum. It was street parking that was accessible which we were fortunate enough to find. I would recommend going to this place early as more parking tends to be available. Always remember if you're parsing Philadelphia and have a disability placard you must park between the two disability parking signs. That is the way they do it otherwise you will get a ticket. Believe me I know.
Super cool place, a little far away from Philly downtown but it’s well connected with the metro. There’s no entrance fee and the staff is really kind and helping, only thing missing a cafeteria 🙂
I only saw Carl Cheng's exhibit, but it was up to par with the best art museums I've been to. The exhibition overturned some of my core beliefs around technology, humanity, and nature. Plus, it's free.
Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
| Address | 1020 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 733-0390 |
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens is a very unique and creative place, and I can see why many people find it interesting. The mosaic work is detailed, colorful, and definitely different from a typical museum or attraction.
That said, for me personally, it was a bit underwhelming. The photos online looked more impressive than the actual experience, and the space felt smaller than I expected. We walked through it fairly quickly and didn’t feel there was a lot to explore beyond taking a few pictures.
I’m glad I saw it once, but I probably would not consider it a must-see attraction in Philadelphia. It may be more enjoyable for people who are especially interested in mosaic art, folk art, or unusual urban art spaces.
It's a magical world of an artist with mosaics of ordinary objects interspersed with artistic pieces with lots of symbolism. Although you can spend a long time looking at the different pieces, I'd recommend an hour. You need to buy the time slot in advance and the timeslot we wanted was sold out. We ended up going a half hour later. If you are visiting from elsewhere I'd buy tickets day of. It's like walking in someone's daydream. It was $15 for admission, and they got a scavenger hunt you can play. The art is everywhere on the stairs, walls and inbetween. I liked how they had some chairs and different things to look at. It opens at 11 and I think closes at 6pm.
Such a beautiful spot, right in the middle of the city..!! Staff are very friendly and helpful. I had to reschedule my ticket and was able to do so without any hassle. I did visit during a weekday, so the place wasn't too crowded and I was able to get some really good photos. I guess it might be more tricky during weekends.
Definitely worth a visit..!
Went to Philadelphia's Magic Gardens on a weekday in the summer. It was during the FIFA World Cup games so there were a lot of tourists that day. Great place for families and pictures. Beautiful eclectic folk art mosaic art garden. I spent about 40 minutes there. There is an indoor gallery and a gift shop with handmade stuff. Good destination if you are doing a South St. jawnt along with the thrift stores and good lunch spots nearby. I did not take a tour just a self-guided walk. The outside garden has narrow pathways and stairs, no good for wheelchairs. Staff was nice.
This was such a fun side quest experience. I definitely recommend checking it out. I suggest you get tickets in advance so you can secure a time slot. I got the first time slot (11am) on a Monday and they were busy when I got there. Stairs are STEEP so be careful and they have a scavenger hunt if you're into that type of addition to your adventure.
Rodin Museum
| Address | 2151 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: Closed Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 763-8100 |
Love the museum. Perfect gallery and I love the sketchbooks! Such a cool feature to be able to draw inspiration at the museum and sketch it in the moment. I drew a lil something in the Bal Zaç room before the garden bat party. The party was amazing and not too crowded! Rodin makes a lot more sense after a cup of prosecco! Plenty of seating if you want to sit and take in the art. I recommend watching a couple of YouTube videos while viewing the art. I loved learning about how Rodin would intentionally leave his sculptures slightly unfinished. Very clean bathrooms by the way? The garden bar event is amazing and perfectly curated. A MUST SEE for visiting Philly on a Friday. Thank you for an amazing time.
A very pleasant surprise at the Rodin Museum in Philadelphia. The setting itself is beautiful, both inside and in the surrounding gardens, which add real value to the visit.
Despite its relatively small size and limited number of works, the museum remains highly interesting and well curated. In about an hour, you can comfortably explore the collection and enjoy a focused, high-quality artistic experience. It is probably the second museum with the largest number of Rodin works and casts outside of Paris.
Ideally combined with a visit to the nearby Barnes Foundation, just a short walk away — together, they make for an excellent three-hour art-focused morning that is absolutely worth the detour.
Very small museum easy to do in between other activities and well worth the visit. This is supposed to be the largest collection of Rodin outside of Paris and the pieces are spectacular. There are a couple of sculptures in the garden as well as tables and a lovely fountain and the inside is full of beauty.
Small museum but has the largest collection of Rodin’s sculptures outside France. If you visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art, tick includes the Rodin Museum. A ticket for two days and two museums.
I honestly couldn't believe the Rodin Museum was right here in Philadelphia. It was such a privilege to finally see masterpieces I only knew from books with my own eyes.
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
| Address | 118-128 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19102 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 972-7600 |
This is an amazing art academy it's school is world renowned and they offer many creative opportunities. They currently are displaying American artists in the newer building and the original building has some of America's classic artist's creations. The gift store has a selection of different prints to purchase.
We stopped by PAFA looking for a good art museum to visit when we had limited time and energy on a busy trip from out of state. It was the perfect stop for a museum that is not overwhelmingly large but still has an excellent range of pieces! The building itself is also beautiful and wonderful architectural history. Highly recommend checking out this place out if you are looking for an art museum in the area!
Went after having not been in several years, very much enjoyed how much of the art was displayed by theme rather than a strict association with time period or even style. Made for a very thought provoking experience, well done! Of course the building is worth the price of admission by itself, masterful inside and out, entry stairs just a marvel.
The main building is closed for renovation, I've visited exebition only. Around 4:00 PM they were already rushing to close the second floor. The young woman at the ticket office was staring at me without even attempting to smile, as if I had personally offended her. Overall, William Villalongo's work is worth a look, but if you are not a connoisseur - do not waste your time.
Spent roughly one and half hours in two buildings.
Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps
| Address | 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:45 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 763-8100 |
The Philadelphia Museum of Art completely exceeded my expectations. Every gallery is beautifully curated, with an incredible collection that lets you experience centuries of art in one place.
Whether you love history, classical masterpieces, or modern art, this museum is absolutely worth visiting. I could have spent the entire day exploring.
A truly unforgettable experience—I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Philadelphia. 🎨✨
Visiting the Rocky Steps was such a fun and iconic experience. Running up the stairs and recreating the famous movie scene made the visit really special. The view from the top is amazing, with a beautiful panorama of Philadelphia. It is also completely free, which is a great bonus for visitors. Many people were taking photos and enjoying the atmosphere, but there was still plenty of space. The Rocky statue at the bottom is a must for a picture as well. I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting the city
Worth a stop as one of the most iconic statues relating to film. It was a cool visit! There is parole close for a fee and very few free spots.
Pretty cool - visiting the iconic "Rocky Steps" was fun for the family - however given my age, I resisted the temptation to re-enact the 'running up the stairs'. Much to my wife's relief.
The view from the top is pretty good offering an expansive panorama of Philadelphia. Lots of tourists and photos - but there was still plenty of space. Well recommended to anyone visiting the city
The Rocky Steps in Philadelphia are an iconic spot and a fun place to visit, especially if you’re a fan of the Rocky movies. Climbing the steps and reaching the top gives a nice sense of achievement, and the view of the city from there is quite enjoyable. It’s always lively with people recreating the famous run, which adds to the energy of the place. A great quick stop with a classic vibe.
Museum of Illusions Philadelphia
| Address | 401 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 608-8521 |
Our family recently visited the Museum of Illusions Philadelphia, and we had an absolute blast! From the moment we walked in, the exhibits were fun, interactive, and had all of us questioning what our eyes were seeing. It was the perfect mix of entertainment, creativity, and learning.
What impressed me most was how much fun both the adults and the kids had. We brought our children, and every room sparked curiosity, laughter, and plenty of “How is that even possible?” moments. The staff was friendly, helpful, and eager to explain the science and illusions behind many of the exhibits.
The photo opportunities alone make the visit worthwhile. We left with some incredible pictures and memories that we’ll be talking about for a long time. It is one of those places where you can truly let your imagination run wild and experience something completely different from the typical museum visit.
The only reason I am not giving it more than five stars is because I wish it were bigger. We were having such a great time that it felt like we reached the end too quickly. The experience was so enjoyable that we wanted even more exhibits to explore.
Overall, if you’re looking for a unique family outing, date night, or something fun to do with friends, I highly recommend the Museum of Illusions Philadelphia. It is engaging, memorable, family friendly, and packed with moments that will leave you amazed. We will definitely be back again.
An interesting visit to this place. My daughter enjoyed. It's a bit pricey and difficult to get tickets during weekends.
It is an interactive edutainment attraction located at 401 Market Street in Old City, Philadelphia, offering over 60 mind-bending exhibits that challenge perception through optical illusions, holograms, and immersive rooms. Opened in March 2022, it’s part of a global franchise that began in Croatia and now spans more than 35 cities, including New York, Chicago, and Toronto.
Monday–Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Adults (13–59): $28
Children (5–12): $22.40
Seniors/Military (65+): $25.76
Children under 5: Free (no ticket needed)
Tickets are timed and sold online; advance booking is strongly recommended to avoid sold-out times.
Features unique Philly-themed installations like an eyes-following Ben Franklin mural, an upside-down diner with Rocky and The Philadelphia Story posters, and the Infinity Room with endless reflections.
Designed for all ages, with hands-on puzzles, photo ops, and educational insights into how the brain interprets visual information.
You typically can spend about 1 hour, though time varies based on engagement with brain teasers.
Bring a charged phone for photos.
No food or drinks are sold inside—eat beforehand.
Located near Independence National Historical Park and SEPTA’s 5th Street/Independence Hall stop—easy to access during a day trip.
Consider pairing with the Visit Philly Overnight Package for hotel perks.
It was an amazing experience! Anyone that comes here will enjoy it cuz we did! My girlfriends son and I finished the hard puzzle that took us an hour and a half to figure out! It was money well spent!
This was so much fun, spent over an hour in here with my 9 year old. He did the entire disc tower move from one peg to another and took a long time and Ciera helped him. Ciera was patient and kind and even my son said she helped just enough without giving it away or being critical - we really enjoyed her presence around the museum. All the other staff were great too!
Great but small, a bit pricey for the number of illusions. However some of them were really good, for me the spinning tunnel room was the most fun, but lots of great photo opportunities and simple mind bending illusions. Great time but only spent an hour or so here before we had seen it all a few times.
Penn Museum
| Address | 3260 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19104 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 898-4000 |
The various displays provide a history of human cultures worldwide over nearly 12,000 years. Thoroughly enjoyed the visit.
The cafe has a limited but adequate selection of sandwiches and bagged items like potatoe chips. I has a tuna fish sandwich which surprisingly had no mayonnaise but still tasted good. The cafe closes at 3 PM.
The Penn Museum has been on our to do list for a while and finally we managed to make the time to visit.
The museum boasts 3 floors of ancient artefacts from across the globe, from ancient Egypt, Greece, Chinese, Africa, Rome, Middle East and America. What makes Penn stand out is that there is something for everyone’s interest.
The artefacts are beautiful presented and the descriptions are easy to understand.
I had the absolute pleasure of meeting a lovely young lady named Ivy in the Egyptology section. I loved talking to Ivy and I think we covered so many topics in the space of about 45 minutes! Well done Penn for having amazingly friendly, approachable and educated staff.
Of note at this time are the exhibits on the peoples of the Americas, Asian and Buddhist artefacts, although not new, the Etruscan displays.
I also have to mention the gift shop. It has to be one of the most beautiful gift shops I’ve seen. Tastefully displayed with a huge range of gifts or souvenirs. I couldn’t resist buying some chocolate!
The grounds were stunning with the ornamental Cherry trees in bloom.
If you are confused about the entrance to the museum then lookout for the pic of them in my review. These 2 lovely ladies have been showing people where the entrance to the Penn Museum is and apparently they have been doing this for years! Absolute gems!
Penn Museum in Philadelphia is a relaxed, quietly impressive museum that focuses on archaeology and world cultures rather than flashy, crowded exhibits. Set on the University of Pennsylvania campus, it has a historic, academic feel with beautiful architecture, courtyards, and high-ceilinged galleries. Inside, you’ll find well-curated artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas, with standout pieces that really capture how people lived, traded, and worshiped across time. The layout is easy to navigate and calm, making it ideal for wandering at your own pace without feeling rushed. Plan on spending about two to three hours to properly enjoy the galleries and read the displays. There’s also a small cafe and gift shop, rounding out a low-key but deeply rewarding museum experience.
What a lovely and informative museum! It's an archeological museum with areas for Middle Eastern, Native American, Greek, Roman and Asian history. The exhibits are displayed beautifully and there's plenty of room to walk around. I really appreciated the fact that a Native American historian curated that section. They do have tours that you can take at an additional price. There's a parking garage on the same block that cost us $28 for the 5-ish hours we were there. The museum costs $23 which I feel was fair for the size and type of museum it is. There's a museum Cafe but be aware that it closes at 3:00. You can buy tickets online if you think it might be a busy time but you don't need to.
Just found a blog post I wrote in 10/14/2009 and adding here with the pictures I took to remember in the future.
Last summer we visit Penn Museum with my family. I am very interesting in Egypt History especially Paraoh's time. I found gorgeous jeweleries that showing over there and want to share some of them with you.
There is art everytime, everywhere in the world. Everybody put their life style, cultures to their art. When you see everything at the same time , you understand one more time we are only a small part of this system.
Museum for Art in Wood
| Address | 141 N 3rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 923-8000 |
I come here all the time for First Fridays and it’s honestly one of my favorite small museums in Philadelphia. The fact that it’s generally free makes it even better.
What I really appreciate is how often they rotate the exhibits on the first floor. It gives you a reason to keep coming back because there’s usually something new to see. The second floor houses the permanent collection, which is thoughtfully curated and showcases just how creative artists can be when working with wood and natural materials.
The pieces range from traditional woodworking to contemporary art that really pushes the boundaries of what you expect from the medium. Some are incredibly intricate, others are playful, and some are just plain impressive. It always makes me stop and look a little longer than I planned.
The gift shop is also dangerous for my wallet 😂. It’s filled with beautiful handcrafted wood pieces, jewelry, home goods, and small art objects that feel more like gallery pieces than souvenirs. Every time I walk through, I find something I want to take home. If money were no object, I’d probably buy half the store.
The staff are consistently friendly and welcoming too, which adds to the experience and makes the space feel approachable.
It’s definitely a niche museum, but that’s exactly what makes it special. There aren’t many places dedicated to this kind of art, and it’s fascinating to see how artists transform wood, fiber, and other natural materials into something completely unexpected.
Always a fun visit and one of those hidden gems I find myself coming back to again and again.
Amazing museum. Never I would thought that there would be a museum dedicated solely to art made from wood.
And it was beyond expectation. The temporary exhibition was amazing. And the permanent collection is amazing. And it is a large collection.
Entrance is free. There is a requested donation of $5 that still is a small amount for what the museum exhibits.
Highly recommended.
Very cool for the wood working nerds out there. The upstairs is a bunch of very unique wood projects. The downstairs is a rotating art exhibit.
Also, one of the best gift shops i’ve come across.
The exhibit we saw was super cool, but I wish they had videos to show how each statue moves. Instead, we asked one of the staff if she could show us -ans she did! Museum staff were super nice. And the store has gorgeous items!
Loved it! Small museum filled with interesting wood art. Free to enter and enjoy, but they really deserve a generous donation. We were welcomed warmly, introduced to the museum and offered a tour. The displays are well organized, the museum space is bright. It’s fully accessible, with accessible entrances, restroom and an elevator to the second floor. There are displays at all heights, and an audio tour available.
Woodmere Smith Hall
| Address | Charles Knox Smith Hall, 9201 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19118 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 247-0476 |
Beautiful grounds, interesting old house and tons of wonderful art! We went on Father’s Day with the whole family, fortunately it was not too crowded and you could move through the galleries at your leisure. There was something for everyone, sculpture, paintings, photographs and jewelry. An historic and modern eclectic selection, all the art was created by artists from the Philadelphia area. There is also a very nice gift shop with unique and artsy gifts available. Definitely worth a visit and bonus, Sunday was free!
The Woodmere Art Museum is a wonderful destination for anyone who appreciates art and creativity. The museum is divided between two separate buildings, each offering its own unique exhibitions and impressive collection of artwork. Every gallery feels thoughtfully curated, making it easy to spend time admiring the variety of paintings, sculptures, and other artistic works.
If you're visiting this museum, I highly recommend stopping by Woodmere Maguire Hall as well. It's conveniently located on the same street and is only a short walk away, making it easy to experience both locations in one trip. Together, they provide a more complete look at the museum's collection and rotating exhibitions.
This museum is amazing perfect place to bring your friends and family. They have concerts during the summertime and a lot of outdoor sculptures for you to enjoy with your family. The membership is very reasonable and they have lots of different activities for all ages. Highly suggest suggested for anyone looking for something to do in the Chestnut Hill area.
It was a wonderful experience and beautiful day to go. Sundays are indeed free but please leave a donation so they can continue doing what we love! Sculptures were awesome but this guy was my favorite.
Great exhibitions and collections. Sometimes host music but the main auditorium is acoustically very poor. The art, grounds and statuary are well worth a visit. My photos are all of many pieces of work by the ceramist, Syd Carpenter, displaying 50 years of the creative process to the present day.
Art Museum Tickets
| Address | 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:45 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (215) 763-8100 |
Entry fee should be more accessible.
Great art collection.
1940’s Boom exhibition until Sept 2025
Right behind the building, there is access to much more. Most ppl don't know it..it has been a few yrs since we have been here but it was gorgeous day.
Incredible experience! Especially for those that are detail oriented.
The Philadelphia Art Museum was outstanding. The displays were awesome and amazing! I spent over six hours there exploring all three floors of wonderful, and beautiful works of Art. I enjoyed the Armory and especially The Japanese Tea House. I would highly recommend this Art Museum!
Essential Tips for Visiting Philadelphia’s Art Museums
Navigating the Philadelphia museum scene requires a bit of strategy to avoid fatigue and maximize your budget. While the art is the main attraction, knowing the logistical quirks of the city can significantly enhance your experience. Here are five essential tips to help you plan a seamless cultural itinerary.
1. Leverage the “Pay What You Wish” Days
Philadelphia is remarkably accessible compared to other major US cities. The Philadelphia Museum of Art offers “Pay What You Wish” admission on the first Sunday of the month and every Friday night from 5:00 PM to 8:45 PM.
The Barnes Foundation also offers free access on the first Sunday. If you are traveling on a budget, aligning your trip with these dates can save you significant money while allowing you to see world-class art for a donation of your choosing.
2. Buy the Philadelphia CityPASS or Attraction Pass
If you plan to visit three or more major ticketed venues, purchasing a bundled pass is almost always the most economical choice.
The CityPASS typically includes admission to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation, among other historical sites. This not only saves money but often allows you to skip the general admission line, giving you more time inside the galleries.
3. Respect the Strict Photography and Bag Policies
Philadelphia’s museums have some of the strictest collection protection policies in the country. The Barnes Foundation, in particular, enforces a strict no-photography rule inside the galleries and requires all bags—even small purses—to be checked or placed in lockers.
The Rosenbach also prohibits photography. Always check the specific museum’s website before you go to avoid being turned away at the security checkpoint or having to wait in a long coat-check line.
4. Plan Your Route by Neighborhood
Don’t try to see the Barnes and the Philadelphia Museum of Art on the same day as the Pennsylvania Academy if you are on foot. Group your visits geographically.
The “Museum Mile” along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway is walkable and includes the PMA, the Barnes, and The Rodin Museum. For the Old City galleries and the PAFA, plan a separate day that allows you to explore the historic streets and public art in between.
5. Allow Time for the Museum Stores and Cafes
In Philadelphia, the gift shops are often curated as carefully as the galleries themselves. The store at the Fabric Workshop and Museum and the PMA offer unique, locally made artisan goods that you won’t find anywhere else.
Additionally, dining inside the museums—such as the Stir Restaurant at the PMA or the Garden Restaurant at the Barnes—offers a much-needed rest for your feet and a chance to process what you have seen without leaving the artistic atmosphere.
Philadelphia’s artistic identity is not a static relic of the past; it is a living, breathing ecosystem that continues to evolve. Whether you find yourself lost in the contemplative silence of the Barnes ensemble or standing in awe beneath the architectural whimsy of the Magic Gardens, the city demands that you engage with art on a personal level.
Ultimately, the best museum experience is the one that moves you. Use this guide as a map, but allow yourself the freedom to wander. In a city that gave birth to a nation, the art found here tells the story of who we were, who we are, and who we aspire to be.
