Location: Philadelphia
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What to do and see in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (PA): The Best History Museums
One of the most historic cities in America, Philadelphia is an ideal place to spend a weekend - preferably a long one. Be sure to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Constitution and Declaration of Independence were signed. Both are part of Independence National Historic Park. Philadelphia also boasts some outstanding art museums, including the Rodin Museum. The Franklin Institute Science Museum is one of many area attractions honoring the life and work of Benjamin Franklin, the city's most famous ambassador. After digesting all of that history, be sure you save room for a classic Philly cheese steak sandwich.
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1. Stenton
2. Eastern State Penitentiary
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,299 reviews
Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, but stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Known for its grand architecture and strict discipline, this was the world’s first true “penitentiary,” a prison designed to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of convicts. Tours today include the cellblocks, solitary punishment cells, Al Capone’s Cell, and Death Row.
Reviewed By 527suzyb - Nashua, United States
Our family, including 7 and 11-year old children, visited Eastern State on Monday, August 20. We booked ahead online for a discount, and saved a few additional dollars using a hotel brochure code. The online tickets were scannable from our phones so there was no need to print. We took advantage of the different tour options available: *Main Audio Tour - A perfect starting point for getting oriented and learning the basics *Hands On History Tours - We attended several short talks given by live guides. I especially recommend visiting the Hospital wing which can only be done on a tour. The map lists tour times throughout the day. *Selected Audio Tour Stops - Together we came up with a list of additional sites to visit based on everyone's interests. We took in the sports yard, Al Capone's cell, an escape tunnel and more. Nothing about Eastern State was too scary for the kids. Ahead of our visit we described it to our 7-year old as "a museum about a prison" to emphasize that it was not in active use. That helped him frame it appropriately. Walking out, he declared "that was more fun than I thought it was going to be!" The 11-year old was so taken with this snapshot that it's now the background photo for her phone. Mission accomplished!
3. Historical Society of Pennsylvania
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 22 reviews
4. Independence Seaport Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 305 reviews
Philadelphia's maritime museum features interactive exhibits, historic ships (Spanish American war-era cruiser Olympia and WWII-era submarine Becuna) and changing exhibition galleries. Seasonal river tours of the Delaware River and kayaks / rowboat rentals available. Extended evening hours Thursday - Saturday Memorial Day - Labor Day.
Reviewed By A306PHjenniferm - Hughesville, United States
My boys and I really enjoyed this museum. There are a lot of interactive exhibits. Very well done and clean. The ship tours are nice. The submarine is tight in spots. But would definitely recommend a stop at this museum while in Philadelphia.
5. Penn Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 498 reviews
The #PennMuseum is open for world adventure! Timed tickets + live virtual tours, classes & events are available now: www.penn.museum Open to all, the Penn Museum is home to remarkable objects and powerful stories that emerge from its extraordinary expeditions across the world. Discover captivating stories of humankind, from the very first cities of the Middle East to the kings of ancient Egypt; from the vibrant cultures of the Mediterranean to the lives of Native American communities today. Experience the mystery of the ancient past, gain an understanding of our shared humanity, and find your own place in the arc of human history.
Reviewed By europhile105 - Goldens Bridge, United States
This museum delivered! Excellent layout with a comprehensive overview of the ancient world, from Europe to Africa to the Americas. Its redesign is wonderful and easy to follow. Loved the Sphinx.
6. National Museum of American Jewish History
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,113 reviews
Visit the National Museum of American Jewish History, right on Independence Mall. Explore our collection of interactive exhibitions highlighting the journey of American immigrants and their stories that have helped shape America into the country we know and love. Reserve your tickets now!
Reviewed By flo220 - New York City, United States
A part of the Smithsonian (so all but special exhibits are free) this very interesting and informative museum covers life of Jews in the United State. It has a nice mix of exhibits with historical information (including immigration facts and figures), artifacts, interactive exhibits and film/tv clips. Informative and enjoyable. Worth a trip to Philadelphia for.
7. Fireman's Hall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 144 reviews
Stop by this small (and free!) museum on your walking tour of Philadelphia. Staffed by actual firemen, Firemans Hall exhibits artifacts, such as leather buckets and fire marks, once and sometimes still used to fight city fires.
8. National Liberty Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 268 reviews
Located in the heart of historic Philadelphia, the National Liberty Museum is dedicated to preserving America's heritage of freedom by encouraging people to find their own place in the story of liberty. Visitors to the Museum enjoy an inspiring and entertaining experience, as they interact with incredible stories of heroes and a collection of contemporary art. Come see an exact replica of the Liberty Bell that still rings, life size children made of jellybeans, and our famous "Flame of Liberty" by Dale Chihuly made just for the National Liberty Museum. Also, be sure to check out our gift shop full of Philadelphia souvenirs, unique handmade jewelry, and fashion accessories.
Reviewed By Mcartsy - Forest Hills, United States
My wife and I visited the museum in early March 2018. We spent over an hour at this wonderful museum. It had 3 floors to explore. We found it very engrossing and very interesting exploring the entire museum. A little gem in the historic district. Entry fee was very fair for families.
9. National Constitution Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,594 reviews
The National Constitution Center is the first and only nonprofit, nonpartisan institution devoted to the U.S. Constitution and its legacy of freedom. Located two blocks from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell in Historic Philadelphia, the Center illuminates constitutional ideals and inspires active citizenship as a state-of-the-art museum, a civic education hub and America's Town Hall.
Reviewed By flo220 - New York City, United States
A museum devoted to the US constitution -- how it was established, signed and ratified; all of the amendments to it and how it has been applied throughout US history. A combination of timeline and commentary, historical artifacts, films and interactive exhibits really drives home what a powerful and flexible document it is. Don't miss the introductory performance (which is really a monologue by an actor rather than a film) which is very powerful; the signers hall filled with statues of the signers and the various authentic documents. There is also an exhibit on (and other references to) Alexander Hamilton. A great place to visit especially for this interested in history.
10. Polish American Cultural Center Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 20 reviews
