Welcome to the Natural History Museum of Philadelphia, a place where visitors can explore the amazing natural world and learn about the creatures that live in it. With a collection of more than 18 million specimens, the museum offers an awe-inspiring experience that is both educational and entertaining. From dinosaur fossils to rare gems and minerals, the museum has something for everyone. It’s a great place to spend a day with family and friends, and to discover the secrets of nature.
Natural History Museum Philadelphia
The Natural History Museum Philadelphia is a revered institution that aims to inspire visitors to connect with the natural world. Founded in 1812, the museum has been dedicated to educating the public and fostering an appreciation for the beauty and complexity of nature. Located in the cultural district of Philadelphia, the museum features a vast collection of specimens and artifacts that represent millions of years of natural history.
Overview
The Natural History Museum Philadelphia, also known as The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, is the oldest natural history museum in the Americas. Its mission is to promote the understanding of the natural world through research, education, and public engagement. The museum is home to over 18 million specimens and artifacts that are used for research and education. It also houses a library with over 200,000 volumes of natural history literature.
In addition to its collection, the museum also offers a range of educational programs and opportunities for visitors of all ages. The museum’s expert staff members conduct research on a variety of topics related to natural science, including ecology, biodiversity, and evolution. Visitors can engage with scientists, take classes, and attend workshops to gain a deeper understanding of the natural world.
Exhibits
The Natural History Museum Philadelphia offers a range of exhibits that showcase the diversity of life on earth. Some of the popular exhibits include the Butterflies! exhibit, which features hundreds of live butterflies fluttering amongst the visitors. The Dinosaur Hall exhibit features a full-scale model of a T-rex and other prehistoric animals, allowing visitors to observe these extinct creatures up close. The museum’s dioramas exhibit offers a glimpse into various natural habitats such as the African savanna and the Amazon rainforest.
The museum’s collections are also a big draw for visitors. The collection of Birds of the World features over 200,000 specimens, making it one of the largest collections in the world. The Invertebrate Zoology collection is another significant collection that contains over 9,000 species of marine invertebrates. Visiting the museum’s many exhibits and collections is an immersive experience that offers visitors an opportunity to learn and appreciate the diversity of life on earth.
Events and Activities
The Natural History Museum Philadelphia hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year. These events offer visitors unique opportunities to engage with the museum’s exhibits and collections. For example, the museum has a Night in the Museum event where visitors can spend the night sleeping amongst the exhibits. The museum also hosts various workshops designed to introduce children to science and nature.
Visitors can also attend lectures and presentations by the museum’s scientists and researchers. These presentations offer an in-depth look at the science behind the museum’s collections and exhibits. The museum also has a Discovery Center where visitors can participate in hands-on learning activities.
In conclusion, the Natural History Museum Philadelphia offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the natural world. With its vast collection and range of exhibits, visitors can explore the diversity of life on earth and gain a deeper appreciation for nature. The museum’s commitment to research and education makes it a world-renowned institution that provides an invaluable resource for the community. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or just curious about the world around us, the Natural History Museum Philadelphia is definitely worth a visit.
Getting to the Museum
Location and Hours
The Natural History Museum in Philadelphia is located at 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19103. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. If you are planning a visit, it’s best to check the museum website for any changes in hours or closures before heading out.
Once you are at the museum, you can purchase tickets at the front desk. General admission costs $22 for adults, $18 for seniors (ages 65+) and students (with a valid ID), and $14 for children (ages 3-12). There are also discounted rates for groups and access programs.
Transportation
The museum is easily accessible by car, public transportation, and bike.
– By car: If you are driving, you can find paid parking options on the streets around the museum or at the nearby parking garages.
– By public transportation: You can take the SEPTA bus or subway to reach the museum. The subway stops at 19th Street and Race Street, while buses stop on the surrounding streets.
– By bike: If you prefer to cycle, the museum has a bike rack outside where you can lock your bike safely.
Parking
If you are driving to the museum, here are some parking options available:
– Parkway Corporation: This parking garage is located at 1845 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA. The parking rates vary by time and day, so it’s best to check their website for updated pricing.
– Central Parking: This parking garage is located at 1500 John F Kennedy Blvd, Philadelphia, PA. The rates are between $15-35 depending on the time of day and day of the week.
– Metered Street Parking: Metered parking is available on the streets surrounding the museum. The rates vary by time and day, so check the signs when you park.
Overall, getting to and parking at the Natural History Museum in Philadelphia is easy and convenient no matter what mode of transportation you choose. Whether you prefer to drive, take public transportation, or bike, you’ll find a way to get to the museum and enjoy all the exhibits and displays it has to offer.
Admission and Tickets
The Natural History Museum Philadelphia is a fantastic place to learn about the wonders of the natural world. The museum is located in the heart of the city and offers visitors a chance to see an impressive collection of exhibits, displays, and artifacts. If you’re planning on visiting this museum, it’s important to know about admission fees, discounts, and membership options. Below are some important details that can help you plan your trip.
Ticket Prices
The admission fee for the Natural History Museum Philadelphia varies depending on your age and the type of ticket you purchase. General admission tickets cost $22 for adults, $18 for seniors (ages 65 and up), $18 for students (with valid ID), $18 for youth (ages 3 to 12), and free for children under 3 years old. If you’re planning to visit with a group of 10 or more, you can call ahead of time to receive a discounted rate.
Additionally, the museum offers a range of special exhibitions, films, and events that require separate ticket purchases. These include the Butterfly Pavilion, which offers visitors a chance to walk through a tropical garden filled with live butterflies, and the Night Skies in the Observatory show.
Discounts and Deals
If you’re looking to save money on admission fees, there are several discounts and deals you can take advantage of. The museum offers discounts to military personnel (active duty and retired), EBT cardholders and their family members, and ACCESS cardholders. Additionally, if you’re a member of another museum or science center, you may be eligible for free or discounted admission to the Natural History Museum Philadelphia. Lastly, the museum occasionally offers discount codes and coupons via their website or social media channels, so be sure to keep an eye out for these.
Membership
If you’re a frequent visitor to the Natural History Museum Philadelphia, becoming a member might be worth considering. Memberships start at $75 per year and offer a range of benefits, including free general admission, early access to special exhibitions, access to members-only events, and a discount at the museum store and cafe. The museum also offers various levels of membership with additional perks, such as free admission to other museums and science centers around the country.
Becoming a member not only gives you many benefits as a visitor, but it also supports the museum’s mission to educate and inspire the public about the natural world. Plus, you’ll be supporting ongoing research and conservation efforts that are critical for the preservation of our planet.
Overall, the Natural History Museum Philadelphia is a wonderful place to explore and learn about the natural world. By understanding the various admission fees, discounts, and membership options available, you can make the most of your visit while saving money.
Visitor Tips
Planning a visit to the Natural History Museum Philadelphia? Here are some helpful visitor tips to make your experience more enjoyable.
Food and Drink Policy
Visitors are not allowed to bring food or drinks inside the museum galleries. However, there are designated areas where you can enjoy your snacks or meals such as the outdoor picnic area and the museum café. The café offers snacks, beverages, and hot meals for visitors, which you can purchase at reasonable prices. The café also caters to vegetarian and gluten-free food options.
What to Bring
To ensure a comfortable visit, there are a few essentials that you should bring. First and foremost, wear comfortable clothing and good walking shoes as you will be walking around for some time. Don’t forget to carry a water bottle as the museum can get warm and staying hydrated is crucial. There are water fountains throughout the museum and you can refill your bottle at any time. A spare battery pack or a power bank is always handy to carry, as taking pictures, updating social media, and using GPS drains the phone’s battery. Lastly, bring cash for parking or café purchases as the museum does not accept debit or credit cards for small transactions.
Accessibility
The Natural History Museum Philadelphia is committed to serving visitors with disabilities and special needs. The museum is wheelchair accessible and has a limited number of wheelchairs available for rental. There are also restrooms, elevators, and ramps to facilitate mobility. Visitors with sight impairments can borrow a tactile map and audio guide to navigate the exhibitions. Visitors who are deaf or hearing-impaired can request sign language interpretation for the docent-led tours or watch videos with closed captions. Service animals are welcomed in the museum, but pets are not allowed. If you have a specific need, you can contact the museum in advance to make arrangements.
In conclusion, the Natural History Museum Philadelphia is a treasure trove of fascinating exhibits and displays that cater to visitors of all ages and interests. With some thoughtful preparation and these visitor tips in mind, you can make the most of your visit to the museum. Don’t forget to take advantage of the special events, workshops, and educational programs that the museum offers throughout the year. Happy Exploring!
Conclusion
Recap
The Natural History Museum Philadelphia is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city. This world-renowned museum has something for everyone, from top-quality exhibitions to hands-on educational experiences.
Visitors can expect a journey through time as they explore the museum’s four floors, filled with fascinating exhibits that cover everything from the beginnings of life on Earth to the latest scientific discoveries. The museum brings to life an impressive range of topics, such as astronomy, ecology, geology, anthropology, and more. Visitors can get close to realistic displays of dinosaurs, watch as the secrets of the human brain are revealed, and explore millions of years’ worth of natural history.
The museum’s mission to inspire curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking is clearly reflected in its approach to education. Visitors of all ages can engage in activities and games designed to encourage active learning and make STEM subjects more accessible and fun. The museum’s programs and events cater to a diverse audience, with everything from guided tours and special exhibits to interactive workshops and summer camps.
Recommendation
The Natural History Museum Philadelphia is a fascinating destination that should not be missed. Whether you are a visitor to the city or a local, this museum offers an unforgettable educational experience that is sure to leave you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of our natural world.
To make the most of your visit, be sure to check out the museum’s website for information on exhibits, programs, and events. The museum also offers group tours and field trips, making it an ideal destination for schools, clubs, and organizations.
We highly recommend this museum to anyone looking for an entertaining and educational way to spend their time in Philadelphia. The museum’s innovative exhibits, engaging programs, and interactive displays are sure to inspire curiosity and excitement in visitors of all ages and backgrounds. So, grab your family and friends and head to the Natural History Museum Philadelphia for an adventure you won’t forget!