The Academy of Natural Sciences Internationally renowned museum dates back to 1812 and serves as a public forum for environmental research and education. Numerous interactive exhibits are particularly fun for children, and include live animals, dinosaurs, and insects
The Barnes Foundation This meticulously maintained estate houses an impressive collection of French modern art from notables such as Picasso, Cézanne, Van Gogh, and Renoir. The arboretum contains a greenhouse, pond, and woodland areas, as well as thousands of plants, many of them rarely found outside more temperate zones. Prepaid, timed ticket reservations are required – it is recommended that ticket and parking arrangements be made at least 45 days in advance. Limited on-site parking is available for a $10; there is also free street parking within five blocks.
Betsy Ross House Built in the mid 1700s, this Georgian-style house was owned by the Widow Lithgow, who rented rooms in it to Betsy Ross and her husband, from 1773-1786. They ran an upholstery business out of this house, and in 1776, Betsy sewed the first US flag here. Fully restored in the 1930s, today the house is one of Philadelphia’s most visited attractions. Betsy Ross is buried in the adjacent courtyard. The gift shop offers Betsy memorabilia and flag souvenirs, books, and toys.
Elfreths Alley Elfreth's Alley is a National Historic Landmark and the nation's oldest residential street
The Franklin Institute A thirty-foot statue of Benjamin Franklin overlooks the scientific interactive displays at this local favorite. This unique museum houses the world's largest artificial heart and biggest pinball machine. There is a planetarium and Omniverse, which features a 79-foot domed screen with more than 50 high-tech speakers. A fascinating and intriguing stop, so budget plenty of time for your visit.
Independence Hall Independence Hall is where Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and their rebellious compatriots approved and announced the Declaration of Independence. As if that event were not noteworthy enough, many returned some 11 years later to pen the U.S. Constitution. Consistent with the freedom that the building represents, admission is free, but timed tickets are required. Obtain them at the Independence Visitors Center on the day of your visit starting at 8:30am. Alternatively, you can arrange tickets in advance by calling the National Park Service reservation line at 800-967-2283.
The Liberty Bell The Liberty Bell Center is a Philadelphia must-see. Visitors can not only view the famous Liberty Bell, one of the most recognized symbols of American freedom, but also learn its history. Films, historical documents, and visual displays enlighten visitors on its history and why it has become the symbol of freedom for many.
National Constitution Center A visit to the National Constitution Center starts with a multi-media theater presentation that describes the main points of our country’s most important document. As a family-oriented museum, many of the exhibits are interactive – guests may vote for their favorite president, or even take the presidential oath of office. Entrance is by timed ticket – to get your desired date and time, purchase tickets in advance. Store and restaurant on-site.
Pennsylvania Ballet One of the premier ballet companies in the nation
Philadelphia Museum of Art This museum offers a stellar collection from artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, Pissarro, Picasso, and Rodin. Surrealist art is well represented by Dali, De Chirico, Max Ernst, and Magritte, with pre-modernist work from the likes of Canaletto and Guardi. Numerous theme rooms display international art and artifacts, including Thomas Eakins's"Collection in the Country"furniture. On-site restaurant, cafe, and gift shop.
Philadelphia Orchestra Founded in 1900, The Philadelphia Orchestra has distinguished itself as one of the leading orchestras in the world
The Philadelphia Zoo America's First Zoo!
Please Touch Museum No"Do Not Touch"signs - a dream come true in a museum setting! Designed to promote the arts, sciences, and humanities, exhibits promise educational entertainment for the young and the young at heart. There is an incredible collection of toys and a 3D interactive playground based upon popular children's books. Art exhibits feature work from children in the Philadelphia area.
Official Visitor Site for Greater Philadelphia
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