Philadelphia is home to a vibrant and diverse array of children’s museums that offer endless opportunities for learning and exploration. From the immersive exhibits at the Please Touch Museum to the interactive displays at the Franklin Institute, there is something for every young mind to discover and enjoy. Whether it’s uncovering the wonders of science, diving into the world of art, or embarking on hands-on adventures, these popular children’s museums in Philadelphia provide an engaging and educational experience that will leave children and their families with lasting memories.
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Please Touch Museum
Location
The Please Touch Museum is located in Fairmount Park, at 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131. It is conveniently situated near the west bank of the Schuylkill River, making it easily accessible by both car and public transportation.
Exhibits
This museum offers a wide variety of interactive exhibits that cater to children’s curiosity and encourage hands-on learning. One of the most popular exhibits is “River Adventures,” where kids can explore the natural wonders of the river ecosystem, build their own dams, and learn about the importance of water conservation.
Another favorite exhibit is “Wonderland,” inspired by the works of Lewis Carroll. Children can step into a whimsical world, where they can grow and shrink like Alice in Wonderland. They can also interact with oversized playing cards and explore a giant chessboard.
Activities
In addition to the exhibits, the Please Touch Museum offers a range of activities that provide educational fun for children of all ages. They have daily storytimes, where kids can listen to engaging tales and participate in interactive storytelling activities. There are also art workshops where children can unleash their creativity and create their own masterpieces.
The museum also hosts special events throughout the year, such as holiday-themed activities, sensory-friendly sessions, and live performances. With a diverse range of activities, the Please Touch Museum ensures that there is always something exciting for children to experience.
Franklin Institute
Location
The Franklin Institute can be found at 222 N 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103. It is located in the heart of Philadelphia, near the iconic Benjamin Franklin Parkway, which houses many other cultural landmarks.
Exhibits
The Franklin Institute is known for its interactive and engaging exhibits that bring science to life. One of the most popular exhibits is the “Giant Heart,” where you can walk through a model of the human heart and learn all about its functions and anatomy. It’s a truly memorable experience for children and adults alike.
Another notable exhibit is the “Your Brain,” a hands-on exploration of the human brain and how it controls our thoughts, movements, and senses. From playing interactive games that test memory and reaction time to exploring the inner workings of the brain, this exhibit offers a fascinating glimpse into the complex world of neuroscience.
Activities
Apart from the exhibits, the Franklin Institute offers a variety of activities and programs that allow children to further engage with science. They have daily live science demonstrations, where visitors can witness mind-blowing experiments and learn about scientific concepts in a dynamic and entertaining way.
The institute also features a state-of-the-art planetarium, where you can embark on immersive journeys through space and witness astronomical phenomena up close. Additionally, they offer workshops and classes on topics such as robotics, coding, and engineering, providing children with valuable hands-on learning experiences.
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Academy of Natural Sciences
Location
The Academy of Natural Sciences is situated at 1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19103. It is located in the Logan Square neighborhood, near other prominent cultural institutions such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Franklin Institute.
Exhibits
As the oldest natural science research institution and museum in the Americas, the Academy of Natural Sciences boasts an impressive collection of over 18 million specimens and artifacts. Their exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including paleontology, botany, zoology, and geology.
One of the main attractions is the “Dinosaurs Unearthed” exhibit, where visitors can come face-to-face with lifelike dinosaur replicas and learn about their habits and habitats. There is also the “Butterflies!” exhibit, a tropical garden filled with hundreds of colorful butterflies from around the world. Families can admire these magnificent creatures up close and learn about their life cycles and importance.
Activities
In addition to the exhibits, the Academy of Natural Sciences offers various activities geared towards children. They have themed scavenger hunts, where kids can embark on exciting quests to find hidden treasures within the museum. There are also fossil-digging stations, where young paleontologists can unearth replicas of ancient fossils and learn about prehistoric life.
The museum regularly organizes family-friendly events, such as nature walks, insect workshops, and even sleepovers under the watchful eyes of dinosaurs. These activities provide unique opportunities for children to explore the natural world and foster a deep appreciation for the wonders of science.
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Location
The Philadelphia Museum of Art is located at 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130. Situated at the end of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, it is a prominent cultural landmark within the city.
Exhibits
As one of the largest art museums in the United States, the Philadelphia Museum of Art houses an extensive collection of artwork spanning various periods and styles. From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, there is something to pique every child’s interest.
The museum is famous for its collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, including works by artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Paul Cézanne. The “Impressionism and Post-Impressionism” exhibit provides children with the opportunity to view these iconic artworks up close and learn about the artistic techniques employed during this influential period.
Activities
The Philadelphia Museum of Art offers a range of activities to engage young visitors in the world of art. They have family-friendly tours led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the artwork and encourage interactive discussions. The museum also provides art-making stations where children can unleash their creativity and create their own masterpieces inspired by the artwork on display.
In addition, the museum organizes special events and workshops throughout the year. These include art-themed festivals, live performances, and hands-on workshops led by professional artists. These activities allow children to explore different art forms and gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the world of art.
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Smith Memorial Playground
Location
Smith Memorial Playground is located at 3500 Reservoir Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19121. Situated within East Fairmount Park, it is an expansive play space nestled amidst lush greenery.
Exhibits
Unlike traditional museums, Smith Memorial Playground is an outdoor playground designed specifically for children. It features a wide array of play equipment, including slides, swings, climbing structures, and a giant wooden boat.
Activities
Smith Memorial Playground offers a variety of activities that promote active play and exploration. Children can climb the sprawling wooden play structure known as the “Playhouse,” which provides ample opportunities for imaginative play. They can also explore the nearby century-old, fully-restored Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide, which offers an exhilarating ride down a grassy hill.
The playground also hosts special events, such as storytimes, nature walks, and performances by local artists. Families can enjoy picnics on the spacious grounds or simply bask in the beauty of nature while their children engage in unstructured play.
Eastern State Penitentiary
Location
The Eastern State Penitentiary is located at 2027 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130. It is situated in the Fairmount neighborhood, just a short distance from the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Exhibits
The Eastern State Penitentiary is a fascinating historical site that offers a glimpse into the world of early prison systems. Once a working prison, it now stands as a hauntingly beautiful ruin. The exhibits explore the penitentiary’s history, notorious inmates, and the impact of solitary confinement.
Visitors can walk through the eerie cellblocks and see the relatively small and isolating cells that were used to house criminals in the 19th century. The exhibit also delves into the penitentiary’s role in shaping modern punishment and prison architecture.
Activities
The Eastern State Penitentiary offers various activities that educate and entertain visitors, including children. They provide interactive audio tours that are designed to be family-friendly, offering stories and insights into the daily lives of prisoners.
During the Halloween season, the penitentiary hosts an annual event called “Terror Behind the Walls,” where visitors can experience a spooky haunted house inside the old cells. This popular attraction is not recommended for very young children, but older kids who enjoy a thrill are sure to have a memorable experience.
The Barnes Foundation
Location
The Barnes Foundation is located at 2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130. It is situated near other prominent cultural institutions on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Exhibits
The Barnes Foundation is renowned for its collection of fine art, featuring works by world-famous artists such as Picasso, Matisse, and Renoir. The museum’s layout is unique, as it maintains its founder’s original arrangement of the artwork, with pieces displayed in ensembles alongside decorative objects and furniture.
The collection spans various styles and time periods, providing an incredible opportunity for children to experience the beauty and diversity of art. The “Old Masters” exhibit showcases works by European artists from the 14th to the 19th century, while the “Modern and Contemporary Art” exhibit features pieces from the early 20th century to the present.
Activities
The Barnes Foundation offers activities aimed at providing children with a deeper understanding and appreciation of art. They have family art programs where children can create their own artwork inspired by the collection. The museum also offers Young Artist and Teen programs that provide more in-depth art education and mentorship opportunities for aspiring artists.
Furthermore, the Barnes Foundation hosts community events, such as outdoor concerts and film screenings. These events allow families to enjoy the museum’s beautiful gardens while engaging with different forms of artistic expression.
Rodin Museum
Location
The Rodin Museum is located at 2151 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130. It is one of the cultural institutions situated along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Exhibits
The Rodin Museum is dedicated to the works of renowned French sculptor Auguste Rodin. The museum houses around 150 sculptures, including Rodin’s most famous piece, “The Thinker.” These masterpieces offer a unique opportunity for children to experience the art of sculpting and understand the expressive power of three-dimensional art.
In addition to the sculptures, the museum also displays a collection of Rodin’s drawings and prints. This allows visitors, both young and old, to explore the artist’s creative process and gain insights into the techniques used in sculptural art.
Activities
The Rodin Museum offers activities that foster a deeper connection with the sculptures on display. They provide family art workshops where children can learn about sculpting techniques and create their own clay sculptures. The museum also organizes educational programs and lectures focused on Rodin and his artistic legacy.
Additionally, the museum’s serene outdoor garden provides a tranquil space for families to relax and appreciate the sculptures in a natural setting. It’s a perfect place for children to reflect on the beauty of art while surrounded by lush greenery.
Independence Seaport Museum
Location
The Independence Seaport Museum is located at 211 S Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19106. It is situated on the waterfront, providing stunning views of the Delaware River and nearby historic ships.
Exhibits
The museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the maritime history of the Philadelphia region. It features exhibits that explore various aspects of the maritime experience, including boat-building, trade, navigation, and naval warfare.
One of the main attractions is the “Submarine Becuna,” a World War II-era submarine that visitors can explore. Children can walk through the tight quarters, see the submarine’s living and control areas, and learn about life aboard a submarine during wartime.
Activities
The Independence Seaport Museum offers engaging activities that allow children to immerse themselves in the maritime world. They have a boat-building workshop where kids can construct model ships using provided materials. There are also pirate-themed interactive exhibits that enable children to experience life on a pirate ship and learn about the Golden Age of piracy.
The museum organizes special events throughout the year, such as festivals featuring historical reenactments, boat races, and educational demonstrations. These events provide a fun and interactive learning experience for children, allowing them to connect with the rich maritime heritage of Philadelphia.
National Constitution Center
Location
The National Constitution Center is located at 525 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Situated in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic district, it is within walking distance of Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.
Exhibits
The National Constitution Center is dedicated to exploring the importance and relevance of the United States Constitution. The exhibits highlight the history, significance, and enduring principles of the Constitution in an engaging and interactive way.
One of the main exhibits is “The Story of We the People,” which takes visitors on a journey through the various stages of American history, from the drafting of the Constitution to the present day. Through multimedia presentations and interactive displays, children can learn about the constitutional rights and responsibilities that shape their lives.
Activities
The National Constitution Center offers activities that encourage children to actively participate in the democratic process. They have daily educational programs that explore topics such as civil rights, the presidency, and the judicial system. Children can take part in mock trials, vote in mock elections, and engage in debates, fostering a deeper understanding of their rights and responsibilities as citizens.
The center also hosts special events, including naturalization ceremonies, where children and families can witness individuals becoming United States citizens. These events serve as powerful reminders of the value of democracy and the rights that the Constitution guarantees to all.
In conclusion, Philadelphia offers a wide array of children’s museums and cultural institutions that cater to a range of interests and ages. Whether you’re looking for interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, or educational workshops, these museums provide endless opportunities for children to learn, explore, and have fun. Plan your visit to Philadelphia’s children’s museums and create lifelong memories while fostering a love for art, science, history, and the world around us.